Phase 1: Starting Right – Registering with the Ministry of Investment (MISA)

Your gateway to doing business in Saudi Arabia starts here.

Before any foreign company can legally operate in the Kingdom, it must obtain an Investment License from the Ministry of Investment (MISA). This license forms the legal foundation that allows you to pursue commercial registration, labor file activation, and more.

This guide breaks down the updated, official process based on MISA’s 2025 Investor Guide.

What is the MISA Investment License?

This license allows foreign companies to establish a legal presence in Saudi Arabia and engage in approved economic activities. It applies to multiple entity types, such as Limited Liability Companies (LLC), joint ventures, branch offices, scientific offices, and regional headquarters.

Step 1: Choose the Type of Investment Registration

MISA supports different models, each with unique criteria:

1. Standard Foreign Company – 100% foreign ownership allowed (with conditions).
   
2. Joint Venture with Saudi Partner – Minimum 25% local ownership.
   
3. Branch Office of a Foreign Company – No capital requirement.
   
4. Strategic Investor Program – For high-impact, high-capital firms.
   
5. Entrepreneurial Establishment – For startups backed by approved entities.
   
6. Temporary Registration – For executing a specific government contract.
   

Your business activity and sector will determine the type of license, capital requirements, and additional obligations.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Typical documentation includes:

• Commercial Registration (CR) of the parent company, certified by the Saudi Embassy.
  
• Board Resolution approving the setup of a KSA entity.
  
• Financial statements of the parent company (last fiscal year), embassy-certified.
  
• Power of attorney for the authorized representative.
  
• Detailed business activity description and proposed company structure.
  
• Translations of all documents (by a certified translator).
  

Note: Holders of Saudi Premium Residency (SP1) are exempt from some requirements.

Step 3: Submit the Application

• Applications must be submitted through the Invest Saudi portal.
  
• You’ll need to select your economic activity code (ISIC4) and complete forms in Arabic or bilingual format.
  
• The portal allows for real-time tracking of your application status.
  

Important Considerations

• Capital Requirements: Vary based on sector. For example, commercial entities with 100% foreign ownership require a minimum capital of SAR 30 million and presence in 3 countries.
  
• Saudi Participation: Some activities require a Saudi partner (minimum 25%).
  
• Compliance: New investors must adhere to Saudization plans, training quotas, and potential investment thresholds (e.g., SAR 300 million over five years for some activities).
  

Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee

Once approved, you’ll receive a notification to pay the license fee within 15 business days. If payment is not completed within this period, the registration is voided automatically.

Estimated Processing Time

10 working days, provided all documents are complete and requirements are met.

Value-Added Programs (Optional)

• Strategic Investor Program: Access to priority services, tailored reports, funding guidance, and decision-maker networks.
  
• Miza Program: One-stop concierge support covering legal, HR, logistics, and compliance assistance.
  

Next Steps After MISA License

Once licensed, you’re ready to move to Phase 2, which includes commercial registration (CR), municipal licensing, and FSC registration.

Our Role at Operational Framework

At Operational Framework, we serve as your local anchor in Saudi Arabia — simplifying each step, verifying documentation, and liaising with MISA on your behalf. We don’t just consult — we execute.

Our support includes:

• Helping you select the optimal investment route (LLC, JV, Branch, etc.)
  
• Preparing and reviewing documentation for embassy attestation
  
• Drafting Arabic business activity descriptions aligned with ISIC codes
  
• Monitoring your MISA application and following up when needed
  
• Advising on capital requirements, exemptions, and compliance obligations
  

We’ve helped entities from diverse sectors get it right the first time — and we’re ready to do the same for you.

Need support with your MISA license or document preparation?
Operational Framework is your partner for getting it done right the first time.

Contact Us or Book a Consultation now.