How to set up a Telecommunication business in Bangladesh
We advise internet service providers, infrastructure operators, value-added service providers and foreign telecom investors on BTRC licensing, spectrum, interconnection and compliance.
A tightly licensed, fast-moving sector
Bangladesh has one of the world’s largest mobile markets and a rapidly expanding broadband sector. Almost every telecom service — from internet provision to tower sharing and value-added services — requires a licence from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
Licence categories, fees, revenue-sharing obligations and foreign-ownership limits differ by service, and the licensing framework is periodically reformed. Early advice on the correct licence avoids costly delays.
Key steps to get started
Company Formation
Incorporate with RJSC and obtain a trade licence, e-TIN and BIN.
Identify the Licence
ISP, nationwide infrastructure, VAS, VSAT or other BTRC licence category.
BTRC Application
Application, eligibility documents, fees and technical plans.
Spectrum & Equipment
Spectrum assignment and type approval for equipment where required.
Interconnection
Interconnection, bandwidth and infrastructure-sharing agreements.
Ongoing Compliance
Revenue sharing, reporting, lawful interception and data-protection obligations.
What you are likely to need
Requirements depend on the scale, location and structure of your business. Common approvals include:
- RJSC incorporation & trade licence
- e-TIN & VAT/BIN registration
- BTRC licence for the relevant service
- Spectrum / frequency assignment
- Equipment type approval
- BIDA registration (foreign investment)
- Bangladesh Bank approvals for foreign payments
- Fire & site approvals for infrastructure
Key laws & regulators
- Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulation Act, 2001
- BTRC licensing guidelines & regulations
- Information and Communication Technology Act, 2006
- Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947
- Companies Act, 1994
- Contract Act, 1872
- Competition Act, 2012
- Regulators: BTRC, Posts and Telecommunications Division
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 provide internet services?
Yes. Internet service providers require a BTRC licence in the appropriate category.
Are there foreign-ownership limits?
Some telecom licences carry foreign-ownership limits or local-partner requirements. We confirm the current rules for each licence.
Can a licence be transferred?
Transfer or change of ownership of a telecom licence generally requires prior BTRC approval.
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.