Establishing a Branch of a Foreign Company in Syria 2025 Guide

With the gradual economic reopening and Syria’s return to the map of regional and international investment, the country has become an attractive destination for foreign companies seeking to expand their operations in the Middle East. Establishing a branch of a foreign company in Syria is a strategic move that enables these companies to operate legally and directly in the Syrian market while taking advantage of reconstruction opportunities and rapid growth in sectors such as energy, real estate, and healthcare.

In this guide, we will explore the conditions, procedures, and required documents to establish a branch of a foreign company in Syria, along with the benefits and obligations that come with it.

What is a Foreign Company Branch?

A branch of a foreign company is a legal entity that represents the foreign parent company within Syria. It operates under the name and supervision of the parent company but is subject to Syrian law in all its dealings. A branch is not considered an independent entity on its own, but rather an extension of the legal personality of the parent company. It is registered in the Syrian Commercial Register under a license from the Ministry of Economy and Foreign Trade.

Benefits of Establishing a Foreign Company Branch in Syria

• Direct access to the Syrian market and participation in public and private projects.

• Full legal representation of the parent company for contracts and agreements within Syria.

• Ability to benefit from investment incentives offered by the government under the new investment law.

• Capability to hire local employees, open bank accounts, and sign leases in the name of the parent company.

• Eligibility to participate in public tenders after obtaining the required approvals.

Legal Requirements to Establishing a Branch of a Foreign Company in Syria

• The parent company must be properly registered and active in its home country.

• A board resolution from the parent company approving the opening of the branch in Syria.

• Appointing a branch manager who resides in Syria and has full legal capacity.

• Defining the branch’s scope of work in line with the objectives of the parent company and within permitted sectors in Syria.

• Providing proof that the parent company is free of legal violations or bankruptcy.

Required Documents to Register and Establish a Foreign Branch in Syria

According to the Ministry of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection, the required documents include:

• An establishment application according to the official form.

• A certified copy of the parent company’s commercial registration.

• A board resolution to open the branch in Syria and appoint a branch manager.

• The articles of association and internal bylaws of the parent company.

• A copy of the appointed manager’s passport (or ID if Syrian).

• A notarized authorization for the branch manager to sign on behalf of the branch.

• A financial statement or the latest annual report of the parent company.

• Proof of payment of the applicable legal fees.

Note: All documents issued abroad must be authenticated by the Syrian embassy in the relevant country and by the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Fees and Timeline

• Registration fees: vary depending on the sector and type of activity, generally estimated between USD 500 and 900, including government fees and certifications.

• Processing time: typically ranges from 15 to 30 working days, depending on document completeness and the speed of approvals.

Restrictions and Obligations

• A branch is not allowed to operate in restricted sectors such as media or mining without special approvals.

• The branch must maintain independent accounting records in Syria.

• The branch is subject to local tax oversight and must submit annual tax declarations.

• The branch cannot transfer profits abroad without first settling all due taxes.

How SIG Supports Foreign Branch Establishment

Syrian Investment Gate (SIG) provides integrated services to support the establishment of foreign company branches in Syria, including:

• Reviewing and verifying all required documents.

• Preparing establishment applications and submitting them to the relevant authorities.

• Coordinating with Syrian embassies for document authentication.

• Assisting with opening the required bank accounts for the branch.

• Registering the branch with the Commercial Register and the Ministry of Economy.

• Providing legal support throughout all stages of the process.

Recommended Sectors for Foreign Company Branch Investment

• Real estate investment in Syria: reconstruction projects, development of residential complexes, and tourist facilities.

• Medical investment in Syria: establishing private hospitals and importing medical equipment and supplies.

• Educational investment in Syria: founding high-quality private schools and training institutes.

• Services Sector: good chance for establishing a Branch of a Foreign Company in Syria.

Ready to Start Your Business in Syria – start today by establishing a Branch of a Foreign Company in Syria?

Begin your investment journey today with SIG — get your free consultation by contacting us on WhatsApp. We are your trusted partner in establishing businesses in Syria, supported by practical experience, a strong network of connections, and professional guidance every step of the way.

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Sources:

• Official website of the Ministry of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection

• Syrian Ministry of Economy and Foreign Trade