Since the new Investment Law (Royal Decree M/19) came into force in February 2025, foreign investors no longer need a “MISA licence”. Instead, they register with the Ministry of Investment (MISA) and receive an Investment Registration Certificate before starting any investment activity in the Kingdom. After registration, the investor moves on to the Commercial Registration and the other licences.
What changed under the new law?
- The foreign investment licence has been replaced by registration with the Ministry of Investment.
- The definition of “foreign investor” covers both natural and legal persons.
- Registration details must be updated annually to remain compliant.
- Certain “excluded” activities require the Ministry’s approval before you start, which is why we check your activity first.
- Minimum capital requirements still apply to some specific activities.
Who needs to register with the Ministry of Investment?
- Foreign companies and individuals who want to establish a new entity in the Kingdom with full or partial foreign ownership.
- Foreign companies that want to open a branch in the Kingdom.
- GCC nationals are treated like Saudi citizens for the vast majority of activities and apply directly to the Saudi Business Center.
Documents usually required
- The parent company’s Commercial Registration (or valid trade licence).
- The parent company’s articles of association or bylaws.
- The parent company’s financial statements, where requested.
- Passports of the shareholders and the proposed General Manager.
- A power of attorney for the legal representative handling the process.
- Legalisation: Saudi Arabia has joined the Apostille Convention, so documents issued in member countries only need an apostille, while documents from non-member countries must be attested by the Saudi embassy. Arabic translation is provided where needed.
Requirements vary by activity, the parent company’s country and the legal form, so we review your file before applying.
Registration steps
- Define the activity: Choose the right activity code under the National Classification of Economic Activities (ISIC4) and confirm it is open to foreign investment and not excluded.
- Prepare the documents: Prepare, legalise (apostille or embassy attestation) and translate the parent company’s documents.
- Apply online: Submit the application through the Invest Saudi e-services platform.
- Registration certificate: Under the Implementing Regulations, MISA notifies the investor of registration for available activities within no more than 10 working days after all requirements are met.
- Move to the Commercial Registration: Obtain the Commercial Registration and articles of association through the Saudi Business Center, then complete the national address, licences and bank account.
How we help
- Review your activity and confirm foreign ownership is possible before you start.
- Prepare the document checklist for your specific file and follow up on legalisation.
- Submit and follow up on the application until the registration certificate is issued.
- Handle the annual update of your registration details.
- Complete the post-registration steps: Commercial Registration, national address, Balady licence, Qiwa and the bank account.