How to set up an ICT & Software business in Bangladesh
We advise software developers, IT-enabled service providers, start-ups and foreign technology companies on company formation, Hi-Tech Park incentives, telecom licensing, contracts and intellectual property.
A fast-growing digital economy
Bangladesh has a large and growing pool of software engineers and freelancers, and a policy framework that actively encourages IT exports and IT-enabled services. Many ICT businesses can start with relatively light licensing, while others — such as internet, telecom and payment services — need specific regulatory approval.
Getting the structure right matters: how you hold your intellectual property, contract with clients abroad, receive foreign payments and employ staff will affect both your tax position and your ability to raise investment later.
Key steps to get started
Company Formation
Incorporate with RJSC and obtain a trade licence, e-TIN and BIN.
Trade Body Membership
Membership of BASIS (software & IT services) or other relevant ICT associations.
Location & Incentives
Consider space in a Hi-Tech Park or software technology park for available incentives.
Sector Licences
BTRC licences for ISP, telecom or related services, where your business requires them.
Contracts & IP
Client, SaaS, employment and contractor agreements with clear IP ownership.
Foreign Payments
Bangladesh Bank rules for receiving export proceeds and paying for services abroad.
What you are likely to need
Most software and IT-enabled service companies need the basics; regulated services need more. Common approvals include:
- RJSC incorporation & trade licence
- e-TIN & VAT/BIN registration
- BASIS membership (recommended)
- Hi-Tech Park registration (if applicable)
- BTRC licence (ISP, telecom, VAS)
- Bangladesh Bank approvals for certain payments
- BIDA registration (foreign investment)
- Trademark & copyright registration
Key laws & regulators
- Companies Act, 1994
- Information and Communication Technology Act, 2006
- Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulation Act, 2001
- Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority Act, 2010
- Copyright Act, 2023
- Trademarks Act, 2009
- Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947
- Regulators: BTRC, BHTPA, Bangladesh Bank, NBR, BIDA
Your legal partner from day one
We advise on the right structure — company, branch, liaison office or joint venture.
We handle name clearance, RJSC incorporation and constitutional documents.
We obtain sector licences, registrations and regulatory approvals.
We support ongoing filings, contracts, employment and disputes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to run a software company?
A typical software development or IT-services company needs standard business registrations rather than a special licence. Internet, telecom and payment services, however, require sector licences.
Are there tax benefits for IT businesses?
Bangladesh has offered tax incentives for specified IT and IT-enabled services. Eligibility and duration change through the Finance Act, so we confirm the current position for you.
How do I protect my software and brand?
Through well-drafted employment and contractor agreements, copyright registration where useful, and trademark registration for your brand.
Can a foreign tech company open an office in Bangladesh?
Yes — through a subsidiary, a branch or a liaison office, each with different registration and tax consequences. We help you choose.
Speak with our legal team
Tell us about your matter. A Premier Law Services lawyer will review it and advise you on the right next step — in person at our Dhaka chamber or online.