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The Commercial Registration (CR) is the foundational legal document for every business in Qatar. Issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), it registers your company name, business activities, shareholders, and registered address. Without a valid CR, you cannot open a bank account, hire staff, sign contracts, or operate legally.
What Is Included in a CR?
- Company name — in Arabic (English translation optional)
- CR number — your unique identification used across all government systems
- Activity codes — the specific business activities you are authorised to perform
- Shareholder details — names, nationalities, and ownership percentages
- Registered address — your official business address in Qatar
- Capital — stated share capital of the company
- Issue and expiry dates — CR must be renewed annually
CR Registration Process
- Reserve your trade name — submit 3 name options through the MOCI portal. Arabic names are mandatory; English translations are optional.
- Select activity codes — choose all activities your business will perform. Adding codes later requires a CR amendment.
- Prepare Articles of Association — outlining company structure, shareholder rights, and management rules. Must be notarised.
- Submit to MOCI — upload all documents through the online portal or submit in person.
- Pay fees — government fees for CR issuance.
- CR issuance — 3-5 working days after approved submission.
Documents Required
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Notarised Articles of Association
- Lease agreement for your registered office address
- Trade name reservation confirmation
- Board resolution (for companies with multiple shareholders)
CR Renewal and Amendment
Your CR must be renewed annually before expiry. Renewal requires an active lease agreement and payment of renewal fees. To add or change activity codes, amend shareholder structure, or change your registered address, submit a CR amendment through MOCI — processing takes 3-5 working days.
Activity code planning
Request all anticipated activity codes during initial registration. Each amendment costs time and fees. Most businesses add 3-5 codes to cover their planned operations.
FAQ
The CR is your company's foundational legal document from MOCI containing your company name, activity codes, shareholders, and address. Required for banking, hiring, and all legal operations.
Government fees are QAR 2,000-5,000 depending on company type and activity codes. Additional costs include trade name reservation and notarisation fees.
CR issuance takes 3-5 working days after correct submission. Total time including preparation is 2-3 weeks.
Register your CR
Contact Agents Group for CR registration, activity code selection, and document preparation.
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