How to set up a Real Estate business in Bangladesh
We advise developers, landowners, investors and buyers on developer registration, land due diligence, joint-venture development agreements, RAJUK and local-authority approvals, and the sale of apartments and plots.
Where title, approvals and contracts all have to align
Real estate development in Bangladesh — especially in Dhaka and Chattogram — involves land records that must be checked carefully, building approvals from development authorities and a specific statute governing developers and their obligations to buyers.
Many projects are built on a joint-venture basis between landowners and developers. A clear development agreement, a properly verified title and full approvals are the foundations of a successful project and of buyers’ confidence.
Key steps to get started
Company Formation
Incorporate with RJSC and obtain a trade licence, e-TIN and BIN.
Developer Registration
Register as a real estate developer with the competent authority (for example, RAJUK in Dhaka).
Land Due Diligence
Verify ownership through khatian, mutation, registered deeds and land-development-tax records.
Development Agreement
Negotiate and register the joint-venture agreement and power of attorney with the landowner.
Building Approvals
Land-use clearance, building plan approval and other authority permissions before construction.
Sales & Handover
Allotment and sale agreements, registration of deeds and handover in line with the law.
What you are likely to need
A typical development project will require:
- RJSC incorporation & trade licence
- e-TIN & VAT/BIN registration
- Real estate developer registration
- Land-use / location clearance
- Building plan approval (RAJUK or local authority)
- Environmental clearance (for larger projects)
- Fire Service clearance
- Utility connection approvals
- Registered development agreement
- REHAB membership (optional)
Key laws & regulators
- Real Estate Development and Management Act, 2010
- Building Construction Act, 1952
- Dhaka Metropolitan Building Construction Rules, 2008
- Bangladesh National Building Code, 2020
- Transfer of Property Act, 1882
- Registration Act, 1908
- State Acquisition and Tenancy Act, 1950
- Regulators: RAJUK, CDA, KDA, RDA, local authorities
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
How do I check that land is free from disputes?
We examine the chain of title, khatians, mutation records, registered deeds, tax receipts and court records, and make searches at the relevant offices before you commit.
Is a joint-venture agreement with the landowner enough?
It should be a carefully drafted, registered agreement supported by a registered power of attorney, clearly setting out shares, timelines and remedies.
What are a developer’s obligations to buyers?
The Real Estate Development and Management Act, 2010 sets out duties on approvals, timelines, specifications and handover, and remedies for buyers. We advise both developers and buyers.
Can foreigners buy property in Bangladesh?
Foreign ownership of land is subject to restrictions and approvals. We advise on the available structures for foreign investors.
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.