Import and Export Company Registration in Iran

Import and Export Company Registration in Iran

Establishing economic relations with other countries is essential for strengthening and sustaining a nation’s economic cycle. In general, the movement of goods through customs for dispatch to foreign countries is categorized as export, while the entry of goods into Iran through customs is categorized as import.

Companies engaged in import and export activities must be properly registered in accordance with Iranian commercial regulations to operate lawfully.

Requirements and Documentation for Import and Export Company Registration

Import and export companies in Iran may be registered as either a Private Joint Stock Company or a Limited Liability Company. The company’s field of activity must expressly include import and export operations and be reflected in its Articles of Association.

The procedures differ slightly depending on the chosen corporate structure.

Registration as a Private Joint Stock Company

In a Private Joint Stock Company, the capital is divided into shares, and each shareholder’s liability, profit, and loss participation correspond to the number of shares held.

The number of shareholders is fewer than in a Public Joint Stock Company, and all shares must relate to commercial activities.

Registration as a Limited Liability Company

A Limited Liability Company is one of the most common forms of company registration. It is frequently established among family members or close business associates. In this structure, the capital is not divided into shares. Instead, each member’s liability is limited to their contribution.

Classification of Export and Import Goods

Under the Law on Export and Import Regulations, goods are classified into three categories:

• Permitted Goods: Goods that may be imported or exported without requiring special authorization, provided regulatory requirements are observed.
• Conditional Goods: Goods that may be imported or exported only upon obtaining the necessary permits. Pharmaceutical products are a common example.
• Prohibited Goods: Goods whose import or export is legally forbidden, such as alcoholic beverages.

Required Documents for Import and Export Company Registration

The following documentation is required for registration:

• Completed the company application form.
• All members signed the multi-purpose company application form.
• Signed minutes of the General Assembly, Board of Directors, and founders.
• Completed the company formation document.
• Articles of Association.
• Certified copies of the identification documents of directors, inspectors, and shareholders.
• Official Gazette publication, including notice of incorporation or latest amendments.
• Certificate of no criminal record for board members.
• Appointment letters of representatives, if shareholders are legal entities.
• Required licenses are subject to approval by the Companies Registration Office.
• Board resolution confirming the company is non-governmental.
• Payment and calculation of registration fees.
• Valuation statement.

It is important to note that engaging in commercial import and export activities requires a valid Commercial Card. This card must be submitted together with the above documents. The Commercial Card is issued by the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, and approved by the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Trade.

Conditions for Registration of a Limited Liability Import and Export Company

• Minimum initial capital of one million Rials.
• Minimum of two members.
• Submission of required documentation.
• Power of attorney if registration is conducted through legal counsel.
• Registration is typically completed within 15 working days.

Conditions for Registration of a Private Joint Stock Import and Export Company

• Minimum initial capital of one million Rials.
• Inclusion of the phrase Private Joint Stock Company before or after the company name.
• Submission of required documentation.
• Power of attorney if registration is conducted through legal counsel.
• Payment of at least 35 percent of the initial share capital.
• Registration is typically completed within 20 working days.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Import and Export Company Registration