Doing Business in 200 Countries A-Z, Everything You Need To Know

Doing Business in 200 Countries A-Z Made Easy + Websites
Everything you need to know about starting, running and culturally dealing with
people for your busiess around the world.
by Nabeel Merchant.
In depth - Ultimate Guide

Table of Contents
Preface
Travel Coupons and Codes
Country Comparison Table
Travel Preparations
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Angola
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Austria
Azerbaijan
The Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Benin
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cabo Verde
Cambodia
Cameroon
Canada
Central African Republic
Chad
Chile
China
Colombia
Comoros
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
Congo, Republic of the
Costa Rica
Côte d’Ivoire
Croatia
Cuba
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
East Timor (Timor-Leste)
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Estonia
Ethiopia
Fiji
Finland
France
G
Gabon
The Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Grenada
Guatemala
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
J
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Korea, North
Korea, South
Kosovo
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
M
Macedonia
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Maldives
Mali
Malta
Marshall Islands
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mexico
Micronesia, Federated States of
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar (Burma)
Namibia
Nauru
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Palau
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Samoa
San Marino
Sao Tome and Principe
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
Somalia
South Africa
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Sudan, South
Suriname
Swaziland
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Tuvalu
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
V
Vanuatu
Vatican City
Venezuela
Vietnam
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Afghanistan – ‫افغانستان‬
Location : Southern Asia, north and west of Pakistan, east of Iran
Population: 34,656,032 ( 39th Rank )
Capital: Kabul ( 3,300,000 population )
Currency : Afghani (AFS)
Religion : Islam
Ethnicity : Pashtun, Tajik, Hazara, Uzbek
Languages Spoken : English ( uncommon ), Dari ( Iranian Farsi ) and Pashto.
Opportunities : Unsaturated/ undeveloped market for all business sectors.
Challenges : Security, Corruption, Rule of law, Local knowledge, unskilled labour
Business & Government Connections, unreliable infrastructure.

Introduction
Afghanistan is a third world country with an abundant supply of untapped mineral resources. This country had once been ruled by the
fundamentalist Islamic faction “The Taliban” which came to an end with the invasion of United States of America in 2001. Torn by war
this country has since made considerable progress to recovery from the war that is still being waged near its borders against the
Taliban. Afghanistan has come a long way since 2001 but still faces risk of terrorism despite the great economic and business
opportunity this country provides. The diverse mix of ethnicities and political complexities make Afghanistan a challenging place to do
business. The government isn’t very transparent, bribes to officials are necessary and rigorous management of risk are requirement to
do business. Business may be tough but not impossible
Economy of Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s economy has significantly improved since the year of 2001. Investment of billions of dollars from expatriates and International
Investors poured in after the defeat of the Taliban regime. Despite holding trillions of dollars of mineral resources it remains the least
developed country in the world. Many young men join militant groups, smuggle drugs or partake in crime to earn a living. Due to
underdevelopment the Afghan government has been pleading for investment to make its economy and infrastructure grow.
There is a housing, clean drinking water, electricity and other critical infrastructure shortfall.
35 % of the population is unemployed and 36 % live below the poverty line .
Business Culture and Etiquette

In the land of the Pashtuns ( Afghanistan ), there is a great value placed on a sense of self honour and avoiding shame in all business
environments. This can be confusing to understand to the uninitiated. You should always come across as trying to be diplomatic when
addressing any issues that could potentially be sensitive, and never act in a disrespectful or condescending manner.
The Afghanis communicate in an indirect manner; you’ll usually find it necessary to read between the lines to decipher what is actually being
indirectly stated. This is just part of the culture and should be accepted; under no circumstances should you directly accuse or speak down to
someone as this would again be bringing their honour into question.
Haggling and negotiating, as in many countries, is part of daily life in Afghanistan and can often be involved when conducting business. It can
be a daunting experience at first, but with practice it will become second nature.
Relationship-Oriented
Relationship building is essential to business in Afghanistan. In a turbulent economy, people depend on their networks and so loyalty is
crucial. To build the trust that will facilitate business, an Afghan will want to know a lot about your background. Expect this to take time
and involve many questions. Be patient and provide answers – agreements and commitments are rarely reached without this foundation.
Afghans are often very perceptive of people’s character and will be discerning if you seem insincere. Inviting an Afghan to your house is a
great way of building a genuine personal relationship.
Considerations before Meeting

• Appreciate that hierarchies are deferred to and respected at all times. Directions from superiors are generally given quietly and are
obeyed immediately.
• Expect an Afghan to struggle whilst doing business with someone who is of a significantly different age to them. They can find it very hard
to disagree with the opinions of those older than them due to their cultural obligation to respect elders.
• If the senior Afghan of a company or business changes their mind on a matter, they may not make it known to everyone immediately.
• If doing business with an Afghan in their country, it is generally wise to explain how your offer benefits Afghanistan, their tribe or their
situation. Afghan expats are less likely to be tempted by this.
• On the Corruption Perception Index (2018), Afghanistan ranks 177th out of 180 countries, receiving a score of 15 (on a scale from 0 to
100). This perception suggests that the country’s public sector is highly corrupt.
First Impression on Meetings

Men should wear conservative suits and shoes. If working in the country in a noncommercial capacity, then wearing the traditional Afghan
dress (long shirt and trousers) is best. Women should always dress up modestly and conservatively and have headscarf while in public.
 Be punctual but consider that the meeting may not begin on time.
 Shake hands with everyone present during the introductions and wait to be seated.
 Address people by their last name and title. The title (e.g. Mr/”Sahib”) comes after the last name. If someone is a Doctor, you would
say “Dr. (last name) Sahib”.
 The exchange of business cards over introductions is not essential. However, if you are given one, receive it with your right hand and
look over it closely to show respect to their credentials.
 There may be tea or refreshments served during the introductions that will be refilled throughout the meeting.
 Begin conversation with small talk that allows everyone to get to know each other or, if they are already acquainted, ask about each
other’s well-being. Starting to talk about business without taking the time to enquire about people personally is likely to be seen as
dismissive and rude.
 You will have to follow the protocol of the age and status hierarchy in meetings. Watch how others behave and learn where you
stand in this social ordering. You will have to wait for someone else to initiate the conversation to speak to someone older than you.
 There may be several people that attend a meeting to simply listen and learn but make no contribution. Some may also wander in
and out while you are still talking. Try not to be put off by this; it is normal.
 Remain patient – interruptions to meetings are common.
 Expect the only fixed times on the meeting’s agenda to be the times when practicing Muslims have to pray. The midday prayer often
interrupts meetings. Be patient and respectful if this happens. They will return when they have finished.
 Expect things to progress slowly. Issues are not often resolved in the same meeting that they are identified in.
 Do not correct someone in a meeting in front of others. This can cause them shame and embarrassment.
 Bargaining is an acceptable and common way of negotiating. However, do not be directive or bossy when trying to get things done,
especially in newly established relationships.
 It is best to make your position appeal to the most senior person present as their opinion usually directs the decision-making.
 During the decision-making process, time will be taken to consider all sides, opinions and stakeholders. The decision will then often
be reached slowly in a way that does not damage anyone’s honour. To rebuke any person’s ideas in front of them can be considered
equivalent to you disgracing them.
Mixing between genders
 Free mixing between genders only takes place within families and close relatives.
 In professional situations such as at businesses or universities, males and females may be co-workers, but are nevertheless cautious
to maintain each other's honor.
 If a man speaks to a woman directly in a social context (not in the office), he is dishonoring her. If a man speaks to a women on the
street, that is equally inappropriate.
 On the other hand, foreign men should note that it is inappropriate to initiate social conversation with an Afghan woman, and a
foreign man should not ask an
 Afghan man about his wife or female relatives.
 Unless married, men and women should never touch one another under any circumstances.
 If you happen to take photo of a female afghan, seek permission before you do so.
Gift Giving Etiquette
 First rule of gift giving is to never offer alcoholic drinks. However, if you know from first hand experience that the receiver drinks you
may do so but covertly to avoid shame.
 The first time you go to someone's house for tea, it is optional to bring a small gift.
 If you are invited to lunch or dinner, feel free but you don't have to, bring fruit, sweets or pastries. Make sure the box is wrapped
nicely. (This applies in most cases, but not in all).
 When bringing a gift, be subtle in how it is given. Do not immediately give the present but rather discreetly place it near the door or
where you sit down.
 When it comes to wrapping gifts there is no special protocol. Green is good for weddings.
Dining Etiquette
 Dining in Afghanistan is a different experience (as compared to the western world) and there are many differences in etiquette. That
should be observed.
 Always remove your shoes at the door if visiting a home. (It is advisable for both men and women to have one pair of slip-on shoes.)
 When you go to an Afghan home, wait in the gate until you are asked to come in. Do not engage female members of a house hold
unless asked.
 If you need to use the restroom, someone will direct you. If you would like to visit other rooms of the house seek permission first.
 Wash your hands before eating.
 If eating at someone's home, you will be seated on the floor, usually on cushions.
 Food is served on plastic or vinyl tablecloths spread on the floor.
 Wait to be shown where to sit.
 If you can, sit cross-legged. Otherwise sit as comfortably as you can. Do not sit with legs outstretched and your feet facing people.
 Food is generally served communally and everyone will share from the same dish.
 Do not eat with the left hand. (If you are not left handed)
 Always pass and receive things using your right hand.
 Food is eaten with the hands and by watching Afghans you will be able to learn.
 Usually food is scooped up into a ball at the tip of the fingers, and then eaten.
 Leave food on your plate, if you are full, otherwise, it will be filled up again.
Do’s and don’ts – Cultural Sensitivity

1. Islam is practiced by the majority of Afghans and governs much of their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Afghans are sensitive
about their religion, speaking to them negatively about their religion makes them unhappy.
2. It is advised not to eat or drink during the month of Ramadan as Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. Opening your fast with your Afghan
Colleagues would greatly enhance your business and personal relationships with them.
3. Free mixing with gender of the opposite sex is considered taboo. Refer to page 4, Free mixing of Genders
4. Consuming alcohol is widely discouraged, should be drank in privacy only.
5. Jumping on to business without small talk is considered rude and dismissive. Avoid using slang words such as F**k, as Afghans would take
it personally.
6. Do not point the sole of your shoe towards your Afghan Colleague during a meeting as it being the lowest part of the body is considered
very rude.
Business Process and Procedures
1. Starting a business in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

*Important- Applies to women only ( -before women can start a business )
Obtain husband's approval to leave home
Government Agency to visit: Afghan Domicile
According to Article 122 of the 1977 Afghanistan Civil Law a married woman will not be entitled to alimony if she is going out of the house
without permit of the husband or for things that are not allowed.
Time to complete: 1 day Costs: No charge
When registering a business in Afghanistan you could either appoint a power of attorney to your
Step Procedure Time Cost

1 Register the company and obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN) 3 days No charge
Agency : Afghanistan Central Business Registry (ACBR) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
The applicant must provide the following documents to register:
1- An application form (available online) http://www.acbr.gov.af/registration.html

2- Copy of national id (tazkira) or passport of the President and Vice President of the business, and all
shareholders, along with their in person presence.
3- 2 sets of color passport size photographs of the President and Vice President of the business, and all
shareholders.
4- Articles of Incorporation.
5- The office space lease agreement to show proof of address.
Specifications of all new businesses and investments are collected by the Afghanistan Central Business Registry
(ACBR) office and sent to the Ministry of Justice in Kabul for publication in the Official Gazette. The text is drafted by
the ACBR. Businesses can draft their own text if they would like to do so. The Gazette entry will include, at a
minimum, the following information:
• Name of the company

• Name of the president and vice president of the company
• Location
• Initial Capital
• Type of Operation
• Type of Activity
2 Pay the business license fee 1 day AFN 32,000
Agency : Bank Millie Afghan window at Afghanistan Central Business Registry (ACBR) (business
license, valid
Afghanistan Central Business Registry (ACBR) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry issues a bill to be paid at for 3 years)
the window of Bank Millie Afghan (located at the ABCR).
3 Obtain the license from ACBR 3 days Included in
Agency : Afghanistan Central Business Registry (ACBR) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry step 2
Once the application is accepted and the business license fee is paid, the business license is obtained from the
Afghanistan Central Business Registry (ACBR).
2. Opening a Company or Personal Bank Account in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs
Afghanistan International Bank – Previously known as Standard Chartered Bank.
Steps Procedure Time Cost

1 Filling out the Account Opening Application Form 1 day No charge
Bank : Afghan International Bank
The applicant must provide the following documents to register:
1. Fill out and print the application form available online

https://www.aib.af/aib_public/forms/applicationforms.aspx
Or visit the nearest bank branch.
2. Account Opening Application Resolution
3. Articles of Association
4. NID/Passport
5. Valid Visa/ Work permit ( In case non local )
6. Copy of Valid Business License
7. 2 copies of Directors Passport size Photograph
8. Signed SS Card
9. Identification for South Border
2 Receiving the Account Opening Letter 14 AFN 2000-

Bank : Afghan International Bank days 4000
Within 14 business days you will receive a call from the bank to notify that your account has been opened.
Visit your bank branch along with your passport or national Identification Card ( tazkira )to collect your company’s
cheque book
3. Renting Commercial Space in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

Renting a commercial office or industrial building seems to be the best option for a foreign company as only Afghans are allowed to own
property. Due diligence has to be carried out while renting out a premises, by choosing a suitable and reliable Real Estate broker to guide you
through the process.
There are only a few purpose built office towers such as the supreme office tower, as there are only few corporate clients such as telecoms or
government ministries.
Small organisations prefer to rent a house and convert the residential compound into office space on the ground floor with parking and
residential living space above. You would be required to setup your own power backup system, well, sewage septic tank disposal system and
security as the infrastructure is very unreliable.
Considering Industrial areas, they are located outside the Kabul city. Areas such as Polachaki are run down, services such as roads are not
maintained as a service fee isn’t paid.
Consultant : Torialai Bahadrey, Email : [email protected], Contact : 001 202 294 0463, Website : http://www.pca.af/contact-us/process.
Consultant : Naveed Merchant, Email : [email protected], Contact : +923002005919, website :

https://www.merchantassociates.com/f_ourclients.html
4. Registering Property in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

*By law, only afghans are allowed to own property. The best option for foreign companies is to rent/lease a property. Property ownership is
complex in Afghanistan as records have been destroyed in Afghanistan over 30 years of conflict. There is chance of property being claimed by
someone other than the owner, in this case the neighbors surrounding your property can vouch for you.
Consultant : Torialai Bahadrey, Email : [email protected], Contact : 001 202 294 0463, Website : http://www.pca.af/contact-us/

1 Obtain application form and two Circular forms from Primary Court 3 days No Cost
Agency : Primary Court
The seller must file an application at the primary court in the relevant district in which the land is located. The
Judge of the Primary Court signs the application form in order to initiate a search of Makhzan records.
2 Submit Circular Forms to the property Office (Milkiat-ha) in the Municipality 15 days 1% of the
Agency : Agency: Municipal Land Office (Amlak) property value.
The applicant takes the Circular Form to the Milkit-ha for certification of location and valuation of property (To be paid in
and checking of the ownership. An Imlak committee establishes the value of the land after an inspection of step 7.)
the property. The value is entered on the Circular Form and 1% on that is charged, to be paid at the bank. The
Procedure also includes checking for backlog sanitation taxes and making sure that the property is not under
any restriction such as mortgages.
3 Submit signed Circular Form to the Chief of Makhzan to initiate the search of registered deeds 8 days No cost
Agency : Chief of Makhzan
The applicant gives the signed Circular forms to the Makhzan to initiate the search of the Makhzan historical
records of registered deeds. Once the application is filed, the validity of the property’s legal deed must be
verified in the Court of Appeals registry by the Head of the Makhzan. The Makhzan keeper searches for deeds
in archives based on the details provided by the applicant (registry number and photos). The clerk then
ensures that the information on the Circular form matches the records of the Makhzan. The keeper gives the
deed book and the owner’s property deed to the Chief of Makhzan, who will check for the correctness of
ownership and sign again the Circular Form
4 Submit the Circular Form to the Revenues and Collection office of the Mustufiat (Ministry of Finance 5 days 1% of the
Provincial Revenue Department) property value.
Agency : Ministry of Finance Provincial Revenue Department (Mustufiat)
(To be paid in
The applicant takes the Circular Form to the Tax Collection Office of the financial department of the local step 7.)
Mustufiat for certification of property taxes owed. The Ministry of Finance also charges 1% on the value
determined by the Municipal committee.
5 Submit the Circular Form to the Human Resource Directorate for certification of signatures 3 days No Cost
Agency : Mustofiat
The Circular Form is submitted to the Human Resources Directorate to certify the signatures of the local and
provincial (regional) Mustofiat staff.
6 Submit back the completed Circular Form to the Primary Court judge 1 day No cost
The completed Circular Form is reviewed by the Primary Court judge. The clerk writes tariffs for the applicant
to pay the taxes (3% of the property value payable to the court and 1% of the property value payable to the
Ministry of Finance) at a designated bank.
7 Seller pays property taxes at a designated bank 1 day 3% or 2 %

Agency : Bank .
*The seller pays the property taxes, indicated in the Circular Form, at a designated bank.
For property values below AF 1 million, the registration fee is 2%.
For property values above AFN 1 million (DB case), the registration fee is 3% of total property value (this is
not a sliding scale).
3% of property value to the Court (Makama) (registration fees for property values above AFN 1 million;
otherwise the rate is 2%)+ 1% municipallity, 1% Mustofiate (Ministry of Finance department) fees
The Presidential decree and the decision of commune commission of two chambers of Parliament published
on April 9th, 2009 introduced a fee schedule for registration fees in Afghanistan.
8 Submit the completed Circular Form, with payment receipts, to the Primary Court 31 days No cost
The applicant returns to the Primary Court with the completed Circular Form and the receipts as proof of
payment. The judge will order the clerk to prepare a new deed in two copies. The new deed is scrutinized by
the Primary Court Judge, who signs both copies. The Konda (stub copy) is maintained in the Primary Court
until the full record book is passed on to the Makhzan for storage. This takes place at the end of every
financial year. The property transfer tax of 5% has been eliminated by Presidential decree dated July 14,
2008.
9 The buyer applies for title transfer 1 day to No Cost

Agency : Milkiat-ha Directorate of the Municipality 365
days
The applicant brings the new Deed to the Milkiat-ha Directorate to change the names in the books (Safia
book), as well as for all utilities.
5. Dealing with Construction Permits in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain copy of the land deed 3 days AFN 3,000
Agency : Makhzan of Kabul Collateral Court
After decades of conflict, most people have lost their deeds, relying on informal ownership claims to land.
In post-conflict Kabul, a copy of the title deed is part of the documentation needed to apply for a building
permit. BuildCo must file a written claim to the appeal court of Kabul stating they lost their deed. The claim
must contain the property specification, deed number, district number, and number of the court that issued
the deed. It takes about a week to obtain a valid copy of the title deed.
When the deed is lost, the owner must advertise the case through news paper or radio and then request
from the court to issue a duplicate deed. Within 7 -- 10 days the court will issue a scanned copy of the deed
without charges.
2 Request and receive an inspection from the Municipality's Survey and Master Plan Department for the 1 day No cost
Sketch of the land plot (Koroki)
Agency : Kabul Municipality
It is possible to request and receive an inspection from the Municipality's Survey and Master Plan
Department for the Sketch of the land plot (Koroki) at the same time as placing a request for a copy of the
land deed.
3 Obtain the sketch of the land plot 3 days No cost

4 Obtain zoning approval from Kabul Municipality 7 days No cost

BuildCo must go to the municipality to check the Kabul Master Plan and to obtain a zoning approval. The
master plan is 15 -- 20 years old and has not been recently updated. If everything is in order and BuildCo pays
a bribe, it may receive the zoning approval in a couple of days. However, without paying a bribe, approval
takes about a week.
5 Obtain building permit from Kabul Municipality 300 USD 6,000

Agency : Kabul Municipality days
BuildCo submits a copy of the title deed, the zoning approval, the building design(s), and proof of the
employees' qualifications. If the property is inside the Kabul Master Plan, the designs are sent to the
Engineering Department and a committee will approve them. BuildCo then pays the building permit fee. The
municipality sends approval copies to various municipal departments (e.g. the police). The building permit fee
is not standardized - the fees can vary from applicant to applicant.
By paying bribes, BuildCo can obtain a building permit within a month of submitting an application. Without
bribes, the application process takes more than one year.
6 Receive random inspection from Municipality 1 day No cost
At the beginning of the construction work, an official from the Municipality District Office and the
Construction Control Department with the help of the district police will come to the construction site to
verify the construction permit.
If the builder has a permit, the company can continue their work; otherwise the project will be stopped and a
bribe to both parties would allow the work to continue.
7 Receive random inspection from the police 1 day No charge

Agency : Police
On average, either the Kabul Municipality or its police department will visit the construction site every month
(about six inspections for a 30-week project). Inspectors often demand bribes of AFN 5,000.00 to AFN
10,000.00 for each visit.
8 Drill well for temporary water supply 15 days USD 5,000

Agency : Central Authority for Water and Sewerage
Water supplies in Afghanistan are obtained from ground water sources and manmade wells. So BuildCo must
dig its own well.
Normally builders drill up to 50 meters deep but it depends on the needs and willingness of the owner.
The cost can range from USD 10 to USD 1,000 per meter depending on the quality of the soil (if there are lots
of rocks, etc.).
9 Build septic tank for sewage USD 15,000

Agency : Central Authority for Water and Sewerage
In the absence of a waste management system, Afghan businesses must build their own septic tanks.
10
6. Getting Electricity in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

1
2

1 Submit application to Kabul Electricity Department and await external site inspection 21 AFN 84,100
Agency : Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherket (DABS) days
The customer must submit the formal request to the Kabul electricity department, mentioning that
construction works have started at the site and the estimated completion date. The main purpose of
registering with the Kabul electricity department is for them to conduct a site visit to check the feasibility of
the project. If capacity is available, then the connection will be granted.
Several sections of the Electricity Department are involved in this site inspection and they will provide a time
schedule to conduct this inspection. This department conducts site visits in the city on a rotation basis, and
give a specific date when the inspection will take place, which is normally done within 15 days.
2 Receive site inspection by utility and await estimate 14 No cost

The presence of the customer is required for the site inspection. Once this inspection is completed, the
customer will have to pick up the letter for the estimated cost from the utility.
3 Purchase transformer and carry out external works 60 USD 12,000

Agency : Customer's contractor days
The customer's contractor will build the substation distribution transformer
4 Customer obtains approval of transformer and materials from utility 14 No cost

Customer has to obtain clearance of the distribution transformer and materials from the utility
5 Obtain meter from utility, convey to lab for checking and obtain installation permission 14 AFN 55,000
The cost breakdown includes the cost of the distribution transformer, the connection charges, labor and
materials. The Security deposit is charged @ AF200/KVA.
6 Receive meter installation by utility and then electricity flow 5 days No cost
Agency : Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherket (DABS)
The utility will request that electricity is turned off so that the meter can be installed. Once the new line
connection is completed, the electricity supply will be turned back on, and the transmission line (150 meters)
is energized. The, dry switch on the medium side is turned on to check, the meter and the transformer. Then
the main switch on the Lower Voltage (VT) side is turned on to inspect the meter condition by increasing and
decreasing the load for the next two hours. If the system is working fine, then the meter is secured (locked),
and the customer is given a written permission to use electricity.
6. Paying Tax in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

Tax Type Procedure Time Cost
1
2
7. Importing and Exporting in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs
Steps Import Documentation Export Documentation

1 Bill of lading Bill of lading
2 Jawaz Nama - Import/ Export License Jawaz Nama - Import/ Export License
3 Commercial invoice Commercial invoice
4 Certificate of origin Certificate of origin
5 Packing list Packing list
6 Insurance certificate Insurance certificate
7 SOLAS certificate SOLAS certificate
8 Inspection certificate Custom Import Declaration
9 Export Form Transit document (T1)
10 Customs Export Declaration Delivery Order
11 Customs Transit Declaration Technical standard certificate
Learning Afghanistan’s Language

Learning the Dari Language is of utmost importance as you would be dealing with Afghans for business all the time.
Afghanistan is a multi lingual society, with Dari and Pashto being the two most spoken languages. Amongst the two, Dari is widely spoken
amongst all of the ethnicities in Afghanistan. The Dari language has a similar resemblance to the Iranian Persian Language ( Farsi ). Although
there are many Dari dialects used in Afghanistan, we are primarily going to focus on the Kabuli dialect widely spoken in Capital City of
Afghanistan, Kabul.
Alphabets
‫ء‬ ‫ا‬ ‫آ‬ ‫ب‬ ‫پ‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ث‬ ‫ج‬ ‫چ‬
Sound : a Sound : a Sound : long a Sound : b Sound : p Sound : t Sound : th Sound : j Sound : che
Apple apple apathy boat pool town think joke Chair
‫ح‬ ‫خ‬ ‫د‬ ‫ذ‬ ‫ر‬ ‫ز‬ ‫ژ‬ ‫س‬ ‫ش‬
Sound : Sound : kh Sound : d Sound : Sound : r Sound : z Sound : je Sound : s Sound : sh
sharp h th
Hair khalif desk those rabbit zebra pleasure small shadow
‫ص‬ ‫ض‬ ‫ط‬ ‫ظ‬ ‫ع‬ ‫غ‬ ‫ف‬ ‫ق‬ ‫ك‬
Sound : s Sound : d Sound : t Sound : Sound : Sound : Sound : f Sound : Sound : k
th ain ‘r’ sharp q
Supper date time that aint r in merci faith Qum Kurdish
‫ک‬ ‫گ‬ ‫ل‬ ‫م‬ ‫ن‬ ‫و‬ ‫ه‬ ‫ي‬ ‫ی‬
Sound : k Sound : g Sound : l Sound : Sound : t Sound : Sound : h Sound : y Sound : a
m w
Cute golf language mom town wolf house year Spa
Numbers
0 ۰ sefr 10 ۱۰ 20 ۲۰ 30 ۳۰
1 ١ yek 11 ۱۱ 21 ۲۱ 31 ۳۱
2 ۲ dho 12 ۱۲ 22 ۲۲ 32 ۳۲
3 ۳ se 13 ۱۳ 23 ۲٣ 33 ۳٣
4 ۴ char 14 ۱۴ 24 ۲۴ 40 ٤۰
5 ۵ panj 15 ۱۵ 25 ۲۵ 50 ۵۰
6 ۶ shesh 16 ۱۶ 26 ۲۶ 60 ۶۰
7 ۷ haft 17 ۱۷ 27 ۲۷ 70 ۷۰
8 ۸ hast 18 ۱۸ 28 ۲٨ 80 ۸۰
9 ۹ noh 19 ۱۹ 29 ۲٩ 90 ۹۰
100 ١۰۰ sad sixth sheshem sixteenth shānezedehem

1,000 ١,۰۰۰ yek hazar seventh hefetem seventeent hefedehem
h
200,000 ۲ ۰۰,۰۰۰ eighth heshetem eighteenth hejedehem
3,000,000 ۳, ۰۰۰, ۰۰۰ ninth nehem nineteenth nozedehem
Ordinal numbers ā'edād tereteyebey tenth dehem twenteeth beyesetem
First āol eleventh yāzedehem Once yek bār
Second dom twelfth doāzedehem Twice dobār
Third Som thirteenth seyezedehem Thrice sebār
Fourth chehārem fourteenth chehāredehem
Fifth penejem fifteenth pānezedehem
Common Phrases
Greetings
English Dari Phrases English Dari Phrases

Hi! Salam Good Khoob
Good morning! Sobh bekheir Not so good Na kheili khoob
Good afternoon! Baad az zohr bekheir Long time no see Kheili vaghte ke too ra nadidam
Good evening! Asr bekheir I missed you Delam barat tang shoodeh
Welcome! (to greet someone) Khosh amadid What's new? Cheh khabar
Hello my friend! Salam dooet e man Nothing new Hich khabar
How are you? (friendly) Hal e shoma chetoor ast Thank you (very much)! Mersi,mamnoon,(kheili
mamnoon)
How are you? (formal) Chetoori You're welcome! ( after Khahesh mikonam
thanks )
I'm fine, thank you! Man khoobam ,mersi My pleasure Ba kamale meil
And you? (friendly) Tu chetoori Come in! (or: enter!) Bia too!
And you? (formal) Va shoma Make yourself at home! Inja khaneh shomast
Introducing yourself

What's your name? Esme shoma chist I'm trying to learn Persian Man saay mikonam parsi
yadbegiram
My name is (John Doe) Esme man ...ast It's a hard language Zabane sakhti ast
Nice to meet you! Azdidane shoma khoshhalam It's an easy language An zabane asani ast
Where are you from? Kojai hastid Oh! That's good! Ah!khoob ast
Where are you from? ahle kodam keshvarhastid Can I practice with you? Aya mi tavanam ba shoma
( similar ) tamrin konam
I'm from (the U.S/ Iran) Man ahle …(u.s.a/iran) hastam I will try my best to learn Man say mikonam ke yad
begiram
I'm (American/ Iranian) Man amrikai/parsi hastam I'm (twenty one, thirty two) Man (bist o yek saleh,si o doo
years old saleh)hastam
Where do you live? Koja zendegi mikonid It was nice talking to you! Sohabat bashoma
jalebbood(azsohbat ba shoma
khoshhal shodam)
I live in (the U.S/ Iran) Man dar(u.s.a) zendegi mikonam It was nice meeting you! Az didane shoma khoshhal
shodam
Do you like it here? Aya anja ra doost darid? Mr.../ Mrs. .../ Miss.. Aghaye
...,khanome...,dooshizeh
Iran is a beautiful country Iran keshvarezibai ast This is my wife In hamsar e (zan e )man ast
What do you do for a living? Shogle shoma chist? This is my husband In shohare man ast
I'm a (teacher/ student/ Shogle man Say hi to Thomas for me Az tarfe man betomas salam
engineer) (moalem,daneshjoo,mohandes)as beresanid
t
Do you speak (English/ Aya englisi parsi sohbat mikonid
Persian)?
Just a little Faghat yek kam
Farewell Expressions

Have a nice day! Rooze khoobi dashteh bashid See you tomorrow! Farda shoma ra bebinam
Good night! Shab bekheir Good bye! Khoda hafez
Good night and sweet dreams! Shab bekheir va khabhaye Have a good trip! Mosaferate khoobi dashteh
shirin bashid
See you later! Baadan shoma ra bebinam I have to go Man bayad beravam
See you soon! Bezoodi shoma ra bebinam I will be right back! Barmigardam
Solving Misunderstanding

Sorry! (or: I beg your pardon!) Bebakhshid What is this? In chist?
Sorry (for a mistake) Bebakhshid My Persian is bad Dari man bad ast
No problem! Mohem nist Don't worry! Negaran nabash
Can you repeat please? Aya mitavanid tekrar konid I agree with you Man ba shoma movafegham
Can you speak slowly? Can you speak slowly? Is that right? Aya an dorost ast?
Can you write it down? Ayamitavanid an ra benevisid? Is that wrong? Ayaan eshtabah ast?
Did you understand what I Aya motevajeh shodid What should I say? Che bayad begoyam?
said?
I don't understand! Motevajeh nemishavam I just need to practice Man fight niaz be tamrin daram
I don't know! Nemidanam Your Persian is good Dari e shooma khoob ast
What's that called in Persian? Be daric he mishavad
What does that word mean in An kalameh be englisi che
English? mishavad?
How do you say "thanks" in Thank you 'be dari che
Persian? mishavad
Hotel & Restaurant Travel

I have a reservation (for a room) Man yek(otagh) reserve I don't eat pork Man khook nemikhoram
kardeham
Do you have rooms available? Aya otaghe amadeh darid I don't drink alcohol Man alkol neminousham
With shower / With bathroom Ba doush/ba hamam What's the name of this dish? Esme in gaza chist?
I would like a non-smoking room Mayelam yek otaghe gheir Waiter / waitress! Garson/khanom garson
sigari begiram
What is the charge per night? Kerayeh otagh shabi cheghadr Can we have the check please? Aya mitavanim menu ra
ast bebinim?
I'm here on business /on Man baraye kar inja It is very delicious! In besiar khoshmazeh ast
vacation hastam/man baraye tatilat inja
hastam
Dirty kasif I don't like it Man in ra doost nadaram
Clean Tamiz Shopping Expressions Ebaratemarbout be kharid
Do you accept credit cards? Aya carte credit ghaboul How much is this? In cheh gheimat ast
mikonid
I'd like to rent a car Mayelam yek machin ejareh I'm just looking Faghat mikhaham negah konam
konam
How much will it cost? Hazineh an cheghadr ast? I don't have change Man poole khoord nadaram
A table for (one / two) please! Yek miz baraye yek/do nafar This is too expensive In besiar geran ast
Is this seat taken? Aya in sandali ra gereftehand? Expensive Geran
I'm vegetarian Man giahkhar hastam Cheap Arzan
Daily expressions

What time is it? Saat cheghadr ast? I really like it! Man vagha,an an ra doust
daram!
It's 3 o'clock Sa,at 3 ( se) ast I'm hungry Man gorosneh hastam
Give me this! In ra be man bedahid I'm thirsty Man teshneham
Are you sure? Aya motmaen hasti? He is funny Ou khandehdarast
hastid(polite)?
Take this! (when giving In ra begirid In The Morning Sobhvaght
something)
It's freezing (weather) Havayakh zadeh In the evening Vaghte asr
It's cold (weather) Hava sard ast At Night Vaghte shab
It's hot (weather) Hava garm ast Hurry up! Ajale kon
Do you like it? Aya an ra doust dari?
Asking for Directions

Excuse me! (before asking Bebakgshid Downtown (city center) Markaze shahr
someone)
I'm lost Man gom shodeham Historic center (old city) Markaze tarikhi
Can you help me? Aya mitavanid be man komak It's near here An nazdike injast
konid?
Can I help you? Aya mitavanam be shoma It's far from here An door az injast
komak konam?
I'm not from here Man ahle inja nistam Is it within walking distance? Aya piadeh mitavan be anja
resid?
How can I get to (this place, this Che tor mi tavanambe(in I'm looking for Mr. Smith Man be donbale aghaye esmith
city)? mahal,in shahr )beresam? migardam
Go straight Mostaghim beravid One moment please! Yek lahzeh lotfan
Then Baad az zohr bekheir Hold on please! (when on the Lotfan khat ra negah darid
phone)
Turn left Be chap bepichid He is not here Oo inja nist
Turn right Be rast bepichid Airport Roroodgah
Can you show me? Aya mitavanid be man neshan Bus station Istgahe autobus
dahid
I can show you! Mitavanam neshan daham! Train station Istgahe gatar
Come with me! Ba man bia(friendly form),ba Taxi Tksi
man biaid(polite form)
How long does it take to get Cheghadr tool mikeshad ta be Near/Far Nazdik/Dour
there? anja beresam?
Emergency Survival Phrases

Help! Komak I need a doctor Man be doktor niaz daram
Stop! Tooqoof Accident Tasadof
Fire! Atash ! Food poisoning Masmoumiate ghazi
Thief! Dozd ! Where is the closest pharmacy? Nazdiktarin daroukhaneh kojast
Run! Bedo! It hurts here Inja dard mikonad
Watch out! (or: be alert!) Moazeb bash! It's urgent! In fori(jadi)ast
Call the police! Police raseda konid! Calm down! Aram shoo
Call a doctor! Doktor ra seda konid! You will be okay! Tu khoub khahi shod
Call the ambulance! Ambulance ra seda konid Can you help me? Aya mitavani be man komak
koni?
Are you okay? Haletan khoob ast? Can I help you? Aya mitavanam be shoma
komak konam?
I feel sick Man mariz hastam
Grammar Summary
Particles
English Dari English Dari

And ‫و‬ Under ‫زیر‬
Before ‫قبل از‬ After ‫پس از‬
Inside ‫داخل‬ Outside ‫خارج از‬
With ‫با‬ But ‫اما‬
For ‫برای‬ From ‫از‬
To ‫به‬ In ‫ طی‬،‫در‬
Pronoun

I ‫من‬ You ‫ شم‬/ ‫تو‬
He ‫( او‬man ) She ‫( او‬woman)
We ‫ما‬ They ‫آنها‬
Possession of something

My ‫ازمن‬ Your ‫ شم‬/ ‫از تو‬
His ‫ازاو‬ Her ‫از او‬
Our ‫از ما‬ Thier ‫از آنها‬
Questions and Adverbs

Never ‫هرگز‬ Rarely ‫بندرت‬
Sometimes ‫گاهی‬ Usually ً‫معموال‬
Always ‫همیشه‬ Very ‫بسیار‬
What Cheh? Who Ki?
Where Koja? How? Chetor?
When? Key?cheh vaght? Why? Chera?
Sentence Construction
Travel and safety

Safety in Afghanistan is of utmost priority. It is advised you arrange a person who speaks Dari to accompany along with you on your business.
trip.
Important Websites & Links

Afghanistan Business Directory : http://www.kabullist.com/
Job posting : http://www.jobs.af/
News ( English ) http://theafghanistanexpress.com/
News ( Dari ) http://www.afghanpaper.com
Important Phone numbers

Police 100, 119
Ambulance 102
Fire department +93 (0) 202 101 333
Further Books for Advice

Albania – Republika e Shqipërisë
Location : Southern Europe, neighboring Greece and Macedonia
Capital: Tirana (997,380 population )
Currency : Lek (LEK)
Religion : Muslim 70%, Albanian Orthodox 20%, Roman Catholic 10%
Ethnicity : Albanian 95%, Greek 3%, other 2% (Vlach, Roma (Gypsy)
Languages Spoken : English ( common ), Albanian, Greek.
Opportunities :. Emerging economy, healthy demand for all goods & services.
Challenges : Corruption in government, inefficient judiciary, weak property law,
unreliable infrastructure, lack of import/export transparency.

Introduction
Albania is
1. Starting a business in Albania, Procedure, Time and Costs

1
2

1 Request and obtain the Registration Certification and Unique Business Identification Number with National 1 day ALL 100
Registration Center, NRC (Qendra Kombëtare për Regjistrim, QRK)
Agency : National Business Center
The registration may be done in person or online via e-Albania portal, which was launched in January 2015.
The online company registration is free but requires an authentication process and electronic signature. At
present, majority of companies still register in person.
2 Employee registration with the Employment Regional Directory 1 day No Cost
Agency : State Labour Inspectorate
After the registration with NBC (procedure 1), all the information about new company is available to the State
Labor Inspectorate immediately through the online portal e- Albania. In order to complete the Employee
registration, the following documents are required:
1. Registration Certificate from the NRC and the declaration of the employed persons
2. Submit the payroll every 3 months by keeping a signed and sealed copy
The newly registered company shall download the relative registration form at the State Labour Inspectorate
website (http://134.0.34.135/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/formular_deklarimi_2014.doc), and submit it the
State Labour Inspectorate office.
3 Finalize registration with the Municipality Bureau of Internal Revenue and obtain list of applicable local fees 1 day ALL 30,000
and taxes (cleaning fee) + ALL
Agency : Municipality Bureau of Internal Revenue 27,000 (temporary
educational tax)
In order to finalize the registration with the Municipality Bureau of Internal Revenue the following documents
are required:
1) The Application form;
2) The Registration Certificate form the National Business Center;
3) the Statute and the By Laws of the Company
4) Rent agreement or proprietorship certificate of the Headquarters of the Company.
Under Resolution of the Municipal Council of Tirana no. 59, dated December 30, 2015, as amended by the
Municipality Council Decision no. 8 dated March 11, 2016, the taxes / fees to be paid by the company
effectively from March 21, 2016 are as follows:
- billboard tax for identification purposes up to 2 sq.m.: ALL 0; above 2 sq.m.: ALL 45,000
- cleaning fee: ALL 20,000 - ALL 170,000 - depending on main activity of the company (such as production, or
sale of goods or provision of services) and size of the company. Companies that sell industrial items (clothing,
perfumery, jewelry, etc) and have annual turnover above ALL 8,000,000 are subject to ALL 30,000 cleaning fee
- temporary education tax: ALL 9,000 - ALL 27,000 - depending on the size of the company. Companies that
have annual turnover above ALL 8,000,000 are subject to ALL 27,000 education tax
All above charges are annual. Billboard tax and cleaning fee are due after 3 months from the registration of a
new company; temporary education tax is due after 1 month from the registration of a new company.
4 Purchase pre-printed invoices from Tax Authority 1 day 360 ALL for a batch
Agency : Tax Authority of 50 invoices
According to the Fiscal Procedure Law, a newly established company must purchase pre-printed invoices from
tax authorities. The company may not use invoices other than the pre-printed ones. Following company
registration, the company founders or representatives request to purchasing a batch of pre-printed invoices,
with company number on them, at the price of 360 ALL for each batch (50 copies).
5 Make a company seal ( optional )
Agency : Private sealmakers
Based on Order of the Prime Minister no. 70, dated 18.4.2016, the state authorities dealing with the
registration and licensing of business should simplify the requests regarding the documentation, by
interrupting any request to companies where documentation should be sealed or in original copy. According
to this order, the documentation is not required to be sealed and may be presented as a simple copy (i.e. non
in original or certified true copy). However, in practice authorities continue to request that the documentation
is sealed.
Therefore the legal requirement for a company seal is considered as abolished. However, there are still
random requests for stamping registration and notification forms based on the interpretation of specific
agency officers. Thus, the most companies still prefer to make a company seal.
2. Opening a Company or Personal Bank Account in Albania, Procedure, Time and Costs
3. Renting Commercial Space in Albania, Procedure, Time and Costs

4. Registering Property in Albania, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 The seller obtains ownership title certificate 8 calendar
Agency : ALBRep - Real Estate Electonic Database, administrated by the Immovale Properties days Total: 3,900 ALL.
Registration Office (simultaneou
s with
Seller and Buyer appear before the notary public to draft and sign the contract for the transfer of Procedures 2)
property. At this time, the Seller provides the notary public with a document that certifies the Seller's
ownership. Notary public, in turn, must verify the ownership of the Seller through the real estate
electronic database (Immovable Properties Registration Office and ALBSReP) before permitting the
parties to sign the transfer of property contract.
The following additional fees (in addition to the tariffs above to be paid to the Albanian State):
1. ALL 1,000.00 for property certificate;
2. ALL 500.00 for copy of property record; and
3. ALL 500.00 for copy of cadastral map fragment.
Registrar would be:
i) 1500 ALL for certificate/attestation;
ii) 1000 ALL copy of the property records;
iii) 1000 ALL copy of the registration map fragment;
iv) 150 ALL mailing service;
v) 100 ALL Bank commission;
vi) 100 ALL Service fee for obtaining the ownership
certificate;
vii) 50 ALL service fee for the copy of the map and all
property records Total = 3,900
2 The Buyer verifies the status of the property at the Real Estate Property Registry 3 calendar 700 ALL tariff
Agency : ALBSReP - Real Estate Electronic Database, administered by the Immovable Properties days + 50 ALL service
Registration Office (simultaneou fee
s with + 100 ALL bank
The application shall be made at the electronic register on immovable properties. At the moment of Procedures 1) commission
the application the applicant shall obtain the user name and password, to be used for future online
follow up on the status of the application.
3 Comparison of property map with the real situation and position of the land 1 - 3 days Estimated
Agency : Private authorized expert (topographer) between 15,000
ALL - 20,000 ALL
While this procedure is not mandatory by law, it is done in practice by the buyer to avoid any dispute
with third parties caused by border issues and/or land surface. Verification is performed by a private
authorized expert (topographer). The cost can be agreed upon by the buyer and seller upon which
party will cover this expense. The law does not regulate the topographer fees.
4 Notarization of sale and purchase contract by the notary public 1 day (1)for 100.000 -
Agency : Notary Office 6.000.000 ALL the
tariff is 0.35%;
In order to execute the sale-purchase contract, the seller submits to the notary public: (2)for 6.000.001 -
(1) Ownership Certificate or the Ownership Attestation; 15.000.000 ALL
(2) The updated Property Records, issued not later than 72 hrs before the contract signature; the tariff is 0.3%;
(3) Property Map (3)for 15.000.001 -
50.000.000 ALL
For the property with the transaction value of ..... the respective notary tariff is: the tariff is 0.28%;
for 100.000 - 6.000.000 ALL the tariff is 0.35%; (4)for 50.000.001 -
for 6.000.001 - 15.000.000 ALL the tariff is 0.3%; 100.000.000 ALL
for 15.000.001 - 50.000.000 ALL the tariff is 0.28%; the tariff is 0.25%;
for 50.000.001 - 100.000.000 ALL the tariff is 0.25%; (5)for above
for above 100.000.001 ALL the tariff is 0.23 %. 100.000.001 ALL
the tariff is 0.23 %.
5 Payment of taxes (local and income tax) at a second-tier bank 1 day Local Tax for
Agency : Second-tier bank Tirana
municipality:
Both, fee and tax are payable at any second-tier bank located in Albania. 2000ALL per
square meter
Income tax for a
company: 15% as
income tax (not
included in
calculation)
Transfer tax: 2%.
6 Registration at the Real Estate Registry Office 7 days
Agency : Tirana Immovable Properties Registration Office Total fee is
7,250.00 ALL
The buyer files the original copy of the contract signed by both parties, accompanied by the
(1) Original copy of the Ownership Certificate or the Ownership Attestation;
(2) The updated Property Records issued no later than 72 hours before the contract is signed;
(3) Property Map, and;
(4) The receipt of the payment of the fee for transferring the ownership title."
Fee breakup
3,500 ALL registration fee;
+ 1,500 ALL for the Ownership certificate;
+ 1,000 ALL for the property records;
+ 1,000 ALL for the map;
+ 150 ALL for the mailing service;
+ 100 ALL Bank commission. Total Fee 7,250
5. Dealing with Construction Permits in Albania, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Request and obtain recent property card 30 ALL 3,250
Agency : Immovable Properties Registration Office days
The property card (proof of ownership of the land plot) can be obtained from the Real Estate Registry.
2 Request and obtain Extract of Master Plan of the Plot from the Urban Planning Department 30 No cost
Agency : Municipal Urban Planning Department days
The master and general plans of the plot are issued by the municipality’s Urban Planning Department. The
general plan is a topographic map of the situation of the existing property, while the master plan is a plan of
the proposed development. The Developer of the Project has to obtain the Updated Master Plan from the GIS
Kadastre in the Territorial planning Directorate. There is no fee to obtain the mentioned Master Plan.
3 Obtain a geotechnical study / soil test 17 ALL 75,000
Agency : Private licensed company days
A soil test is a necessary step for development of the project. The soil investigation helps to determine the
bearing capacity of the land, which helps to determine the load capability, the type and depth of foundation,
in order to make sure to select a suitable construction technique.
4 Request and obtain opinion of the District Urban Planning Department 10 ALL 2,000
Agency : District Urban Planning Department days
Building Company should request an attestation on the drawings’ compliance with urban zoning regulations
from the district Urban Planning Department.
5 Request and obtain Project Clearance from Water Authority 9 ALL 3,000
Agency : Water Authority days
The water authority approves the project and indicates the nearest water supply sources.
6 Request and obtain Project Clearance from Environmental Protection Agency 8 No cost
Agency : Environmental Protection Agency days
A two-story building, such as the one in the case study would fall under building category C (low risk) and,
therefore, does not required an environmental impact assessment. However, it is still mandatory for BuildCo
to obtain project clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency through the Natinal Licensing Center. In
order to do this, no on-site inspection is conducted. Rather, documentation submitted by BuildCo would be
reviewed and approved.
7 Request and obtain Fire Department Approval for Development Permit 15 ALL 10,000
Agency : Fire Department days
This procedure takes 15 days on average because while the Fire Department gives the approval, the Prefecture
holds the actual seal that must be used to stamp the approval. In practice, the public actually make this
request at the Prefecture. The Fire Department then has to call the Prefecture to ask for files, which are
forwarded to the Fire Department. The Fire Department must then review and send back to the Prefecture to
stamp the approval.
The fee for this procedure is 0.5% of the project value for objects with investment value of up to ALL 50
million. The fee is estimated at 0.5% of the design value (generally 10% of the warehouse value).
8 Request and obtain certificate from General Directorate of Local Taxes and Tariffs 3 No cost
Agency : General Directorate of Local Taxes and Tariffs days
Before applying for the Development and Construction Permit the developer of the project must obtain a
certificate from the General Directorate of Local Taxes and Tariffs (under the authority of Tirana Municipality)
showing that the developer/constructor does not have any outstanding obligation towards the Municipality of
Tirana.
9 Request and obtain construction development permit 45 ALL 769,318
Agency : Mayor of the Municipality/Commune days
The mayor is responsible for granting of the construction permit. Under the provisions of the current law on
Territorial Planning the mayor grants the construction permit within 45 days from the application date. The
technical council provides its opinion on the request as an integral part of the case folder.
The construction development permit is issued only after the payment of the tax on infrastructure which for
Tirana has been defined between 2 - 4 % of the constuction cost.
Based on Law on Territory Planning, additional fees for the examination of the application may be approved by
the Municipality. The Municipality of Tirana with Decision of the Municipality Council No. 3 dated 05.02.2007,
as amended, has established an examination fee equal to 1% of the value of the investment.
10 Notify Central Technical Inspectorate about the start of construction works 1 day No cost
Agency : Central Technical Inspectorate
After receiving the building permit, BuildCo has 7 days to inform the Central Technical Inspectorate about the
start of construction works
11 Receive on-site inspection of construction foundations 7 No Cost

12 Receive on-site inspection of the completion of construction skeleton 7 No cost

13 Request and connect to water and sewage services 20 ALL 40,000

Agency : Water and Sewerage Agencies days
14 Submit Report on the Completion of Works and request on-site inspection 1 day No cost
Agency : Municipal Urban Planning Department
Within 30 days of completing construction, BuildCo submits to the Urban Planning Department a report that
documents construction materials and associated costs and requests an inspection of the construction site.
15 Receive final inspection from Municipality and obtain compliance report 30 No Cost
The inspector examines the adjustment of the surroundings of the building to the drawings, and certifies that
the project has been built in compliance with the development and building permit specifications. The
inspector then signs the inspection completion statement. Then the Municipal Urban Planning Department
issues a compliance report (this is not an occupancy permit, but based on the compliance report, an
occupancy permit can then be obtained).
16 Obtain occupancy permit 30 No cost

The occupancy permit is issued only after the compliance report has been issued. Based on the compliance
report, the Municipal Urban Planning Department makes a decision regarding the issuance of the occupancy
permit. The occupancy permit grants the right to use the building after construction is completed.
17 Register with the Real Estate Registry 60 ALL 4,320

Agency : Immovable Properties Registration Office days
Upon receiving the occupancy permit, BuildCo registers the warehouse with the Real Estate Registry.
6. Getting Electricity in Albania, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain approval for electricity connection 1 day No cost
Agency : Technical and Industrial State Inspectorate (ISHTI)
The customer has to request and obtain an approval from the Technical and Industrial State Inspectorate
(ISHTI) for the electricity connection.
The customer has to submit the electric design of the building and obtain the approval from the OSSH for the
new electricity connection.The electric design must be prepared by a licensed engineer or a licensed company
in this regard, together with the rest of required application documentation.
2 Submit application to distribution utility (OSHEE) and await external site inspection 14 No cost
Agency : Operatori i Shpërndarjes së Energjisë Elektrike (OSHEE) days
The customer submits the application with the electricity distribution utility Operatori i Shpërndarjes së
Energjisë Elektrike (OSHEE) in person. A declaration of conformity of the internal wiring signed by a licensed
electrical engineer must be submitted with the application. Documents submitted have to be either the
originals or notarized.
OSHEE checks if the application is completed correctly and they inspect the premise.
3 Receive external site inspection and await estimate 7 No cost
After the application has been submitted, the must wait for an estimate. The distribution utility sends a
representative to the site to do an external inspection of the building. Someone from the customer's party has
to be present during the inspection. After the inspection, the distribution utility prepares the estimate for the
connection and sends it to the customer.
4 Obtain design by private firm, get design approved and obtain cost estimate by OSHEE 93 USD 5,503.92
Agency : Electrical design firm/OSHEE days
The design of the external connection works is done by an electrical design firm. The design has to be
approved by the Central Technical Inspection (IQT) and by the utility. IQT is a state company. The internal
wiring of the building is inspected only by IQT at the beginning of the connection works. The inspection can be
requested at any time.
5 Obtain external works from private firm 14 USD 16,300.08

Agency : Electrical Contractor days
The external connection works are carried out by an electrical contractor hired by the customer. The cost
includes physical work including material, labor, equipment, transportation.
6 Receive internal and external inspection and meter installation by utility 5 No cost
Once the connection works are completed, the meter will be installed by the distribution utility. Prior to
opening the meter, the distribution utility will conduct an inspection of the internal wiring of the transformer
cabin and of the external connection works.
Algeria – ‫الجزائر‬
Location : Africa & Middle East,
Capital: Algiers (3,415,811 population )
Currency : Dinar (DEZ)
Religion : Sunni Muslim ( state religion ) 99%, Christian & Jews 1%
Ethnicity : Arab-Berber 99%, European less than 1%
Languages Spoken : English ( common ), Arabic (official), French, Berber dialects.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
Algeria is
1. Starting a business in Algeria, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain an attestation of the uniqueness of the selected company and pick up registration forms 1 day DA 576
Agency : Commercial Registry (Centre National du Registre du Commerce, CNRC)
The applicant must fill out a form, listing the four proposed company names, and pay a fee for the
name search and the fiscal stamp. The Commercial Registry (Centre National du Registre du
Commerce, CNRC) conducts a name search and issues a name certificate on the same day.
The company name can be checked online thought the portal www.cnrc.org.dz
2 Deposit the start-up capital with the notary public 1 day No cost
Agency : Bank
The entrepreneur deposits the capital in the public treasury and obtains a deposit certificate before
drawing up the statues.
3 Obtain the birth certificate of the manager 1 day No cost

Agency : Municipality
A copy of the business manager's birth certificate is required for notarization. It can be obtained at
the Municipality.
4 Draw up and notarize the company's constitution documents, submit a specimen of managers’ 7 days Refer to
signatures, and prepare and submit the lease for the registered office of the company procedure 4
Agency : Notary Office
Business founders must complete the following procedures with a notary: draw up and notarize the
company's constitution documents, submit a specimen of managers’ signatures, and prepare and
submit the lease for the registered office of the company.
According to Executive Decree n° 08-243, notary fees are:

-5% if the company capital is between DA 1 - 200,000,
-1% if the company capital is between DA 200,001 - 300,000,
-0.7% if the company capital is between DA 300,001 - 400,000,
-0.6% if the company capital is between DA 400,001 - 500,000,
-0.5% if the company capital is between DA 500,001 - 1,000,000,
-0.5% if the company capital is DA 1,000,000 and above.
5 Publish the company constitution in the legal journal (Bulletin Officiel des Annonces légales, BOAL) 1 day DA 48 per line
Agency : Commercial Registry (Centre National du Registre du Commerce, CNRC) ( variable )
A notice of company incorporation must be published at the Official Bulletin of Legal Announcements
(BOAL).
6 File for company registration with the Commercial Registry Refer to

Agency : Commercial Registry (Centre National du Registre du Commerce, CNRC) procedure 6
Entrepreneurs must register the company before the Commercial Registry. This must be done within
two months of the formation of the company.
Registration fees :
- DA 9,120 if the company capital is between DA 30,001 and DA 100,000
- DA 9,520 if the company capital is between DA 100,001 and DA 300,000
- DA 9,760 if the company capital is more than DA 300,000
7 Pay for the stamp duty and obtain a receipt 1 day DA 4,000
Agency : Tax Authority and Commercial Registry (Centre National du Registre du Commerce, CNRC) (simultaneously
with previous
One must pay for the stamp duty. Fiscal stamps are sealed at the fiscal administration. Other stamps procedure)
are paid at the CNRC
8 Register for Income tax, Corporate tax and VAT with the local tax inspectorate 2 days No cost
Agency : Tax Authority
The entrepreneur must register for Income tax (Impôt sur le revenu global des personnes physiques,
IRG), Corporate tax (Impôt sur les bénéfices des personnes morales ou des sociétés, IBS), and VAT.
Upon registration, the Tax Authority shall issue a certificate of existence between 2 and 5 days and a
tax card (magnetic card) within a minimum period of 30 days
9 Register at the National Health Insurance Authority (CNAS) 1 day No cost

Agency : National Health Insurance Authority (Caisse Nationale des Assurances Sociales des
Travailleurs Salariés, CNAS)
Employees must be registered by the new company before the Caisse Nationale des Assurances
Sociales des Travailleurs Salariés (CNAS), which receives employee declarations.
The employer must report any new employee to the relevant authority within 10 days of hiring.
10 Register at the National Non-Salary Workers' Social Security Fund (CASNOS) 1 day No cost
Agency : National Non-Salary Workers' Social Security Fund (Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale des
Non Salariés, CASNOS)
Business founders must register before the Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale des Non Salariés
(CASNOS), which receives and register employer declarations
11 Make a company seal 2 days DA 1,800

Agency : Private sector
A company seal must be obtained. The cost of obtaining a company seal depends on the type of seal,
its quality and the price established by the private seal maker.
12 Have the company’s accounting books stamped at the court 1 day DA 8,000
Agency : Court
The accounting and inventory books must be stamped when the company starts its business activity.
2. Opening a Company or Personal Bank Account in Algeria, Procedure, Time and Costs
3. Renting Commercial Space in Algeria, Procedure, Time and Costs
4. Registering Property in Algeria, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain a cadastral document identifying the parcel and its owner 15 days 34 DZD (Cadastre
Agency : Agence Nationale du Cadastre (simultaneou Fee) + 20 DZD
s with (Stamp fee)
The notary obtains a PR4 bis extract from the Cadastre, stating the parcel number and the owner's procedure 2)
name.
2 Obtain a certificate of non-encumbrances from the Land Registry (Conservation Foncière) 7 days DZD 500 for the
Agency : Land Registry (Conservation Foncière) (simultaneou non-encumbrance
s with certificate
The seller provides the original title (livre foncier) to the Notary in order to prepare the sale and procedure 1)
purchase agreement.
3 Parties provide the relevant documents at the notary and obtain the order of payment 3 days 3% for first DZD
Agency : Notary 500,000 of
property value, 2%
The parties provide the notary with all the relevant documents such as the original Property title, non- for the next DZD
encumbrance certificate, birth certificate and the minutes of the shareholders' meeting giving 500,000, 1% for
authority to the representative of the company to buy/sell the property on their behalf. The notary exceeding amount
takes note of the purchase price and reviews the documents. The notary then issues an order of + 17% VAT is
payment to the buyer for 20% of the purchasing price (to be deposited in the notary’s account at the applicable on the
Public Revenue Office), where a corporation is involved (according to Article 12 of the Loi des Finances notary fees
de 2014). The deposit will cover:
• Registration fees: 5% of property value (2.5% for each party)
• Notary's fees according to D.E. no.08-243 of 03/08/2008 (Official Gazette no. 45/2008)
• Publication fee (taxe de publicité foncière): 1% of property value
4 The buyer pays registration and publication fees into notary’s account. 1 day 6% of the property
Agency : Public Revenue Office (Trésor Public) value (5%
registration fee +
The buyer deposits a fifth of the property value to the Notary's account at the Public Revenue Office. 1% publication
fee)
5 Parties sign the contract at the public notary 1 day No cost
Agency : Notary
After the deposit, the buyer provides the notary with the receipt. The notary then drafts the contract,
which is signed by both parties, and issues a provisional copy of the sale agreement to the seller and a
copy of purchase agreement to the buyer. The notary then continues with the registration of the
transfer deed.
6 The notary pays registration fees to the local tax authorities (Recette des Impôts) 1 day Already calculated
Agency : Local tax authorities (Recette des Impôts) in step 4
The notary issues a payment of 5% of the purchase value for the registration fees to the local tax
authorities. Subsequently, the tax authorities will check if there are outstanding taxes. After the review
is over, the tax authorities issue an original deed (‘minute de l’acte) to the notary for his records only.
The "minute" is the original received by the notary. The notary must keep it and cannot make it public.
7 The original deed and documents are filed by the notary at the Registry of Deeds (Service de 3 days No cost
l’Enregistrement et du Timbre)
Agency : Registry of Deeds (Service de l’Enregistrement et du Timbre)
The original deed signed by both parties and all relevant documents are filed in by the notary, at the
tax authority (Service de l'enregistrement et du timbre).
8 File tax declaration and proof of payment at the local tax office 1 day No cost
Agency : Local tax office (Sous Direction du Recouvrement des Impôts)
The Notary files the tax declaration and proof of payment at the local tax office (Sous Direction du
recrouvement des Impôts), within ten days from the date that the contract is signed, and a receipt will
be issued. This receipt is important as it will allow the notary to collect the reimbursement of 50% of
the amount deposited in his account.
9 Notary returns deposit to seller 30 days (time No cost

Agency : Notary limit)
(simultaneou
After 30 days, and if there are no objections by the tax office, the notary delivers to the seller a check s with
for the amount of the deposit or, if applicable, the amount minus the capital gains tax, if the latter was following
paid from the deposit. Procedures)
10 The notary issues payment for publication fee to the Local Land Registry 20 days Already calculated
Agency : Local Land Registry (Conservation Foncière) in step 4
The notary issues a payment by check for the publication fee of 1% of the purchase value (part of 6%
deposited by the seller) accompanied by a copy of the deed. The Land Registry then issues the updated
property title (livre foncier) to the notary.
5. Dealing with Construction Permits in Algeria, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain a geotechnical study/soil test 30 days DZD 1,350,000
Agency : Private firm
A geotechnical study (soil test) is needed by the engineer to establish the way the foundations of the
building will be set. The cost will depend on the nature of the soil and the number of pits needed.
2 Obtain an urban certificate 14 days

Agency : Municipal Authority (Autorité Municipale)
An urban certificate is not a legal requirement to obtain a construction permit. However, in practice it is
required by the architect so that the plans are drawn according to the specificities of this plot of land.
The owner will make the request to obtain the urban certificate for this plot of land and will receive it in
about one week by mail.
3 Obtain a topographical survey 7 days DZD 125,000

Agency : Private Firm
A topographical survey has always been a requirement to establish the building plans.
4 Obtain building permit 60 days DZD 126,964

The complete application is submitted in 5 copies to the Assemblée Populaire Communal (APC) at the city
level. The application is first approved by the city and then transmitted to the DUCH at the Wilaya leve
The DUCH (direction de l’urbanisme de la construction et de l’habitat) at the Wilaya (county) level
centralizes all building permit requests submitted at the city level and issues a technical opinion (avis
technique) after consultation with other technical government agencies: SONELGAZ, forests, civil
protection, health, environment, etc. (exact list depends on the type of project).
The documents required are:
• Acte de propriété (property deed)
• Plans of the project prepared by a certified architect and certified engineer for the génie civil section.
Drawings of the structure
• Extrait cadastral (or plan du lotissement where applicable). Extrait cadastral in Rouiba
• Preliminary agreement from utility companies. Authorization for temporary connection during the
construction
• Dessins du systeme d’egout
Construction permits are valid 3 years. If the construction has not been built within this time frame, the
builder must apply for a new one.
5 Inform Municipality of commencement of work 1 day No cost
It is mandatory to inform the Municipality of the commencement of work as well as of the expected date
of completion.
6 Receive inspection for the first earthworks 1 day No cost

Agency : Controle Tecnique de la Construction
The Technical Agency, an independent technical agency, verifies every major step of advancement of the
structure (“réceptionne ou vise”): there are on average 5 to 8 inspections per construction.
They control the structure and safety issues. They inspect at each key stage of the construction:
• Verification of the quality of the soil
• First earthworks
• Excavation inspection
• Laying of the foundations
• Installation of the concrete slab
In general only urbanism and civil protection will inspect; no other agency conducts an inspection
7 Receive excavation inspection 1 day No cost

Receive foundation inspect each
Receive concrete pouring inspectionion inspection
Receive second concrete pouring inspection Total 4
days
Agency : Controle Tecnique de la Construction
8 Notify Municipality of completion of construction 1 day No cost

Agency : Contrôle Technique de la Construction
BuildCo inform the Municipality of the end of construction
9 Request and receive final inspection to obtain certificate of conformity 2 weeks No cost
Agency : Controle Tecnique de la Construction waiting
time
When the warehouse is completed, BuildCo must notify the municipality so that it can make a final 1 day of
inspection of the construction. inspection
The following documents must be included in the request:
• Statement of Completion in duplicate against a receipt.
• Notice of inspection sent eight days prior to the inspection sent by the CPAA to BuildCo
• A written report (Proces Verbal) will be established by a committee comprising of all the relevant
departments, including the fire department at the end of the inspection.
The inspection is usually done within 2 weeks of the request.
10 Obtain certificate of conformity 23 days DZD 9,500

Agency : Sous direction de l'urbanisme de la Commune
Although the law requires a certificate of conformity, it is seldom issued in practice

11 Register the building at the Cadastre 1 day No cost
Before the building can be used as collateral, banks require the property title and the construction license.
This case study assumes that BuildCo already possesses a construction license.
12 Apply for water and sewage connection 1 day No cost

Agency : Société des Eaux et de l'Assainissement d'Alger (SEAAL)
13 Notify municipal/communal authority of connection to sewer mains 1 day DZD 15,000

Agency : Municipal/communal authority (Autorité municipale/communale)
When the application for a building permit is submitted, there is a set of plans for utilities which are sent to
utility companies for verification. If the utility companies do not approve these plans, the building permit
will be delayed until all plans are corrected.
14 Obtain inspection for water connection cost estimate 1 day No cost

The Customer Service department will send a team to do a technical and financial study of the work to be
done. The cost estimate is given to the client and payment must be made before the work is done.
15 Obtain sewage connection 21 days DZD 13,000

A site visit is sometimes required to prepare the estimate.
16 Obtain water connection 18 days DZD 25,000

6. Getting Electricity in Algeria, Procedure, Time and Costs

1
2 Submit application to SDA (subsidiary of SONELGAZ), receive a technical report and an estimate of 60 DZD 0
connection fees days
Agency : SONELGAZ (via its subsidiary "Société de Distribution de l'électricité et gaz d'Alger (SDA)")
The paper version of the application must be submitted and at no cost. The application form must be
submitted with the following certified copies: 1) project information sheet; 2) Location map (scale 1/5000 or
1/2000); 3) electric power requirements; 4) ground plan (scale 1/500). The client signs the contract and
reviews the estimate after receiving the plan of works from Société de Distribution de l'électricité et gaz
d'Alger (SDA).
Once the contract is signed and paid, Société de Distribution de l'électricité et gaz d'Alger (SDA) sends the
request for authorization of excavation to the Public Works department of the Municipality (Direction des
Travaux Publics (DTP)). The utility obtains the excavation permit from the Direction des Travaux Publics on the
customer's behalf.
3 Obtain the external site inspection by the utility to receive the technical report and estimate 10 DZD 0
Agency : SONELGAZ (via its subsidiary "Société de Distribution de l'électricité et gaz d'Alger (SDA)") days
The Société de Distribution de l'électricité et gaz d'Alger (SDA) conducts an external inspection of the location
of the warehouse after submission of the application. A representative of the applicant is usually present
during the visit. SDA then drafts a technical study and provides an estimate of the costs.
4 Await the external works and meter installation by the utility and sign supply contract 52 DZD 2,669,188.45
Once the transformer is installed, Société de Distribution de l'électricité et gaz d'Alger (SDA) starts the external
works as well as installing the meter. The client must sign a supply contract and pay a deposit equivalent to
one month of consumption by check or bank transfer. This deposit is reimbursed to the client at the expiration
of the contract.
5 Obtain internal wiring inspection by the utility followed by electricity turn-on 8 DZD 0
The client is responsible for the internal wiring and the technical department of Société de Distribution de
l'électricité et gaz d'Alger (SDA) must approve the final installation before electricity starts flowing.
Angola – República de Angola
Location : Africa & The Middle East, bordering Nambia and Congo
Capital: Luanda (2,487,484 population )
Currency : Kwanza (AOA)
Religion : Indigenous beliefs 47%, Roman Catholic 38%, Protestant 15%.
Ethnicity : Ovimbundu 37%, Kimbundu 25%, Bakongo 13%, mestico
2%, European 1%, other 22%.
Languages Spoken : English ( uncommon ), Portuguese (official),
Bantu and other African languages are spoken as well.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
Angola is
1. Starting a business in Angola, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Search for a unique company name and pick up the certificate of availability (certidão da firma) 1 day Kz 500
Agency : One-stop shop (Ficheiro Central de Denominações Sociais, Guichê Único da Empresa)
The availability of the company name must be verified at the commercial registry (Ficheiro Central de
Denominações Sociais), affiliated with the Ministry of Justice.
To obtain the company name certificate (certificado de admissibilidade da firma), an application (with
copy of identification attached) must be filed with the One-stop shop (Guichê Único da Empresa), as
follows:
1. State the company’s proposed name
2. Request the issuance of a certificate, confirming that such name is acceptable and is not similar to any
existing company name
A fee of Kz 400 applies for the form of the company name certificate. For name changes or reservations
without the incorporation of a new company, the Certificate would have a cost of Kz 29,090.
2 Pay the registration fee 1 day Kz 12,000
Agency : One-stop shop (Guichê Único da Empresa)
Fees are paid at the bank counter within the one-stop shop (Guichê Único da Empresa) to facilitate
payment of the different fees. Each agency and fees goes to a specific account and payments can be
made cash or by card.
The cost of incorporating a Sociedade por Quotas de Responsabilidade Limitada (LDA) is Kz. 12,000
(10,000 for incorporation, 1,000 for GUE service fee and 1,000 for the publication in the official gazette).
3 Obtain the company's articles of association at the One-stop shop (Guichê Único da Empresa) 1 day Included in step 2
In order to prepare the company's articles of association to incorporate a new company, there are have
2 options: either to resort to a lawyer's services to draft the company documents or to fill in the
standard documents offered by the One-stop shop. If the business founder decides to use the standard
Statutes of Association from the One-stop shop or Guichê Único da Empresa (2 pages), it can be done
directly at the agency. The applicant must enter the required information (associates` ID, address,
activities of company) and confirm that the articles are applicable to the type of company as the Guichê
has 4 different types of statutes. The business founder will then obtain the prepared documents. In the
case statutes are prepared by a lawyer, the process might take an additional time for lawyers` review of
the documents.
4 Obtain the company's tax ID (NIF) 1 day No charge

Agency : Tax authorities at the One-stop shop (Guichê Único da Empresa)
Once documents are verified and completed, applicants must apply at the section of the National Tax
Office (Direcção National dos Impostos) within the One-stop shop to obtain the National Identification
Number (NIF).
5 Notarize the company's documents and register the company 2 days Included in step 2
The applicant must submit the company's documents to the Notary Public at the One-stop shop or
Guichê Único da Empresa. Once the Notary reviews the dossier, he will have a reading with the
applicant present or the accredited person to ensure that there are no mistakes. This service fee is
included in the Guichê fees and this takes one day, depending on room availability and complexity of
the company’s Articles of incorporation.
Once the documents are reviewed, the notary makes 4 copies which are signed and sent to each of the
agencies involved for approval and filing. Copies are distributed to the representatives of the
Commercial Registry, the National Press (Imprensa National), National Institute of Statistics, Tax office of
the Ministry of Finance, Social Security Institute and the Ministry of Public Administration, Employment,
and Social Security.
Each agent from each institution is in charge of sending the files to his/her agency, but this doesn't
impede on the process of registration. For Imprensa National, the receipt is sufficient to continue the
process. Despite the fact that law says that documents should be published before getting the license to
operate, the system at Imprensa National makes it unlikely for daily or weekly publication, therefore the
Ministry of Commerce uses the receipt as proof.
For company and employee registration with Social Security, the required forms must be downloaded,
completed and presented to the One-stop shop, so that they can be submitted to the relevant authority.
Each of the organizations mentioned above has a representative within Guichê Único da Empresa with
authority to deliver the accreditation that the step has been accomplished.
6 Obtain the Commercial Operations Permit from the Ministry of Commerce 15-45 days Included in step 6
Agency : Ministry of Commerce at the One-stop shop (Guichê Único da Empresa)
To carry out commercial activities in Angola, a company must obtain a commercial operations permit
(Alvará) from the Ministry of Commerce. To apply for the issuance of the commercial operations permit,
the following documents must be filed with the representation of the Ministry of Commerce at the One-
stop Shop (Guiché Único):
(a) Commercial Registration Certificate, with the enrollment of the company’s managers;
(b) Identification of the managers: copy of ID card for nationals; and copy of residency permit or
passport with updated work permit for foreign citizens.
(c) Number of mobile phone and email.
In order to obtain the license, some inspections to the facilities need to take place in some businesses.
After the application for the Commercial Operational Permit, Ministry of Commerce creates a username
and password which enable the applicant to check the status of the process online at SILAC (Sistema
Integrado de Licenciamento das Actividades Comercais).
The fee schedule is as follows:
199 square meters - Kz 10,000
200 - 499 square meters - Kz 35,000
500 - 999 square meters - Kz 75,000
1,000 - 1,999 square meters - Kz 200,000
Greater than 2,000 square meters - Kz 350,00
7 Legalize the company's minutes book with the Commercial Registry 1 day USD 20
Agency : Commercial Registry ( simultaneo
The Books for the General Assembly's minutes (livro de actas) must be legalized by the Commercial us with
Registry. previous
step )
2. Opening a Company or Personal Bank Account in Angola, Procedure, Time and Costs
3. Renting Commercial Space in Angola, Procedure, Time and Costs
4. Registering Property in Angola, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain an updated tax certificate from the Tax Office 4 to 6 months AOA 1,500
Agency : Tax Office (Repartição Fiscal) (simultaneou
s with
An updated tax certificate is obtained from the relevant Tax Office, detailing the description of the procedure 2
property (Certidão Matricial). An important piece of information to obtain from the tax certificate is and 3)
whether the property was ever confiscated by the State upon freedom from Portugal. Sometimes this
information will not be included in the tax certificate. In this case, the buyer or his/her lawyer has to
search the records of the Offical Gazette (Diario da Republica) to confirm that there were no
confiscation dispatches covering the property. The Certidão Matricial contains the name of the current
owner and an estimated value of the property.
2 Obtain an updated ownership certificate from the Registry 7 days AOA 4500
Agency : Real Estate Registry (Conservatória do Registo Predial) (simultaneou
s with
An updated certificate of the property ("certidão predial") is obtained from the relevant Real Estate Procedure 1
Registry. It sets out a full description of the property, including information of its owner and any and 3)
charges, liens or encumbrances pending over the property.
The total fee for the "certidão predial" includes: (i) Stamp duty (calculated according to the Law on
Stamp Duty); (ii) Justice fees (calculated according to the Law on Justice Fees); (iii) Fees to justice
officers (according to the set contributions for the Justice budget); (iv) Notary fees and (v) other fees.
The total fee is also dependent on the current value of the fiscal unit (UCF), currently at AOA 88,
according to Despacho No. 174/11 of March 11, 2011.
3 Tax Authority conducts an inspection to determine the value of the property 1 day No cost
Agency : Tax office (Repartição Fiscal) (simultaneou
s with 1 and
An inspection needs to be conducted by the tax authority in order to evaluate the value of the 2)
property.
4 Pay transfer tax (Sisa) 7 days 2% of property

Agency : Tax Authority (Repartição Fiscal) value (transfer tax,
Sisa)
A statement by the seller setting out the sales value or a copy of the Promissory Agreement of Sale and
Purchase signed by both parties has to be presented to the tax authorities. The chief official of the tax
administration office has to agree to the value of the transaction. If the tax authorities deem it
necessary, an inspector may go to evaluate the property for tax purposes. Once the value of the
transaction has been agreed to by the tax authorities, the Sisa tax will be applied to that value. The tax
authorities will issue a receipt upon payment of the transfer tax (Sisa), which will be given to the notary
public as part of Procedure 5. Typically, the transfer tax is only paid when the parties have agreed
between them and with a notary public a fixed date for the execution of the required notary deed.
5 Execute the deed of transfer before a notary public 7 days Notary fees and
Agency : Real Estate Registry (Conservatória do Registo Predial) stamp duty (0.3%
A notary public executes the deed of transfer. The 0.3% Stamp Duty is paid to the notary according to of property value)
the property value stated on the transfer tax (Sisa) receipt, together with the notary fees (which are paid at the
depend on the value of the transaction, but also on the notary office and the number of pages being Notary.
notarized).
After the signature of the deed, the buyer will be the legal owner of the property. Registration is See step 5
needed for publicity purposes and protection against third parties.
The documentation shall include:

• Proof of payment of transfer tax (obtained in Procedure 4)
• Updated registry certificate from Land Registry (obtained in Procedure 2)
• Updated tax certificate from Tax Office (obtained in Procedure 1)
• Personal identification documents of the buyer and seller (passports, identity card, etc.)
• Registry of Companies' Certificates if seller and buyer are companies, so as to provide evidence that
the officer executing the deed on behalf of the corresponding company has authority to do so.
Notary fees are calculated according to Joint Executive Decree 52/03 of September 9, 2003 (taking into
account 1 UCF is AOA 88):
(1) For each notarization, 80 UCF
(2) For each page or fraction, 10 UCF
(3) Depending on the value of the property, the following cost will be added:
property value up to 60 UCF, plus 6 UCF; from 60 UCF to 400 UCF, plus 9 UCF; from 400 to 4000 UCF,
plus 10 UCF; over 4000 UCF, plus 0.05 UCF*((property value/UCF) - 4000)/30)).
6 Receive definitive registration from the Real Estate Registry 3 weeks Cost set by decree
Agency : Real Estate Registry (Conservatória do Registo Predial) 116/11
(1766.47*88 UCF=
The notarized deed certificate must be presented to apply for registration at the Land Registry Office. AOA 155,449.36)
7 Apply for definitive registration at the Tax Office 5 days AOA 175
Agency : Tax Office (Repartição Fiscal)
At the tax office, there is only final registration. Provisional registration is no longer applicable, as final
registration has become considerably faster.
5. Dealing with Construction Permits in Angola, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Obtain a proof of title of property for the land 7 AOA 4,500
Agency : Real Estate Registry of Luanda days
Before obtaining the proof of title, BuildCo must also obtain the Usufruct of the Land from the Instituto de
Planeamento e Gestao Urbana de Luanda. This is often a time-consuming procedure taking up to one year or
more. However, it is assumed in the case study that BuildCo already owns the land.
Build Company must obtain a proof of title of property for the land from the Real Estate Registry in Luanda. An
updated certificate of the property ("certidão predial") is obtained from the relevant Real Estate Registry. It
sets out a full description of the property, including information on its owner and any charges, liens or
encumbrances pending on the property.
The total fee for the "certidão predial" includes: stamp duty (calculated according to the Law on Stamp Duty);
justice fees (calculated according to the Law on Justice Fees); fees to justice officers (according to the set
contributions for the Justice budget); notary fees and other fees. The total fee is also dependent on the
current value of the fiscal unit (UCF), currently at AOA 88.00, according to Despacho no. 174/11 of March 11,
2011.
2 Submit an environmental impact study 15 No cost

Agency : Ministry of Environment days
According to Article 5 of Decree No. 51/04 of July 23, 2004, every project (private or public) must present an
Environmental Impact Study to the Ministry of Environment for their approval.
3 Obtain permission to build from Fire Department 5 AOA 1,500

The fees, varying according to project size and location, must be paid to the fire department. To estimate the
fees, the fire department requires details about the warehouse location. The fees are not regulated and
appear to be charged in a relatively random fashion.
4 Obtain environmental impact study clearance 30 No cost

Agency : Ministry of Environment days
Once the Environmental Impact Study is submitted, it is sent directly to the concerned authority by the
Ministry of Environment for further study. If the project is approved, a license is issued to the applicant. This
license must be presented to obtain the building permit
5 Request license to build from the Provincial Government 60 AOA 13,200

Agency : Provincial Government days
To obtain the license to build, BuildCo must file its application and all required documents with the Provincial
Government.
6 Receive on-site inspection from the Provincial Government 1 day No cost

Agency : Provincial Government
After receiving the application for construction permit, the Urban Department (Luanda Province) visits the
prospective site to confirm whether the applicant’s information is accurate.
7 Request and receive final inspection by provincial authorities 30 AOA 2,000

Once the building is completed, the Luanda provincial government conducts a final inspection. Several
departments (the fire department, the engineering department, and the town services department) and
provincial authorities conduct the final inspection jointly and issue their technical opinions. After the
inspection, the occupancy permit will be issued.
8 Request and obtain occupancy permit 30 No cost

9 Register the building with the Real Estate Registry 21 AOA 105,600
Agency : Real Estate Registry of Luanda days
The Real Estate Registry charges building registration fees that are in line with taxes assessed on the building
by the tax authorities.
10 Request and obtain water and sewage connection 10 No cost

Agency : Empresa Provincial de Agua de Luanda (EPAL) days
To request a water and sewage connection, BuildCo must send a letter to the public sector water company in
Luanda (Empresa Publica de Aguas de Luanda, EPAL). Along with the letter, the developer must submit a
certificate of building location and a copy of the building permit. The connection fees vary according to
warehouse size.
6. Getting Electricity in Angola, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Hire electrical contractor to obtain permits 14 AOA 30,712
Agency : Department of Supervision and Licensing of the Ministry of Energy / Electrical contractor days
The electrical contractor, hired by the client, must obtain an electrical permit (license for electrical works) and
a license for exploitation at the Department of Supervision and Licensing. . For that he must prepare the
technical terms of reference and send them to the Department of Supervision and Licensing (Departamento
de Licenciamento e Fiscalizacao) of the Ministry of Energy for approval and signature along with the following
documents: Electrical plans, company license, tax number, ID of the person, and some general letters
(application forms).
2 Receive external and internal inspection by department of Ministry of Energy 1 day No cost
Agency : Department of Supervision and Licensing of the Ministry of Energy
The Department of Supervision and Licensing conducts a site inspection as well as an internal wiring inspection
before signing the technical terms of reference. Someone from the customer’s party has to be present.
3 Submit application to distribution utility and await response 7 AOA 20,309.22

Agency : Empresa Nacional de Distribuição de Electricidade (ENDE) days
Once the technical terms of reference and the permits from the Department of Supervision and Licensing have
been obtained, the customer sends a letter to ENDE, the electricity distribution company, to request a new
connection.
Documents requested for the application are:
• A document containing the project of the warehouse

• Plan of the warehouse including fixed and non-fixed pieces
• License of establishment
• License of exploration
• Commercial license
• Tax card copy
• Copy of ID
• Terms of reference signed by the Department of Supervision and Licensing
4 Receive external site inspection by utility 1 day No cost

Agency : Empresa Nacional de Distribuição de Electricidade (ENDE)
The distribution utility is performing an external site inspection to determine the technical requirements for
the connection. After the inspection, the customer receives a letter from ENDE with the materials the electrical
contractor needs to buy. Someone from the customer’s side has to be present.
5 Carry out external works in accordance with utility's design 90 AOA 5,114,457
Once the inspection has been completed, the electricity distribution utility, ENDE, will design the external
connection works which will be done by the electrical contractor.
6 Receive internal wiring inspection by utility 7 No cost

The customer has to request the internal inspection from the utility in writing during or at the end of the
external connection works. The utility has to check the security of the wires as the utility is liable.
7 Notify utility when works are done and await meter installation and final connection 3 No cost
Once the external connection works are finished, the electrical contractor or the customer himself has to
notify the utility that the works are done. For this type of connection, it is the direct responsibility of ENDE to
activate the customer in the Customer Management System database and, consequently, to also activate the
meter.
Antigua and Barbuda ( Off Shore Company )
Location : North America & The Caribbean
Population: 102,012 ( 200th Rank )
Capital: St. John’s (100,963 population )
Currency : East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Religion : Christian (predominantly Anglican with other Protestant, and
some Roman Catholic
Ethnicity : Black, British, Portuguese, Lebanese, Syrian.
Languages Spoken : English (official), local dialects are also spoken.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
Algeria is
Ste Procedure Time Cost

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1. Starting a business in Antigua and Barbuda, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Search and reserve company name 3 days EC 25
Agency : Intellectual Property & Commerce Office (IPCO)
The company name search is performed manually by going through large registration books. Upon
assurance that no other company goes by the proposed name, a form is submitted to reserve the name
for three months.
2 Retain a lawyer to prepare the incorporation documents 1 day Included in step 3

Agency : Lawyer
The minimal cost of EC 150 is charged by a lawyer or justice of the peace to prepare a declaration
attesting that the company owner is not bankrupt, is mentally sound, and is over 18 years of age. This is
the only document that requires an attorney’s intervention by law. However, the general practice is
that an attorney will prepare all incorporation documents: notice of address, notice of directors, and
articles of incorporation. In this case, the average attorney fee averages EC 3,000. All the necessary
documents are forms from the Company Act and are completed by filling in blanks. The cost of this
procedure is incorporated into Procedure 3, as typically the notary will file the prepared documents
with IPCO on behalf of the company.
3 Register with the Intellectual Property and Commerce Office and receive the Certificate of 10 days EC 3230
Incorporation
Agency : Intellectual Property & Commerce Office (IPCO)
The registration fee with IPCO is EC 200, plus the statutory declaration (stamp fee) of EC 30. Attorney
fees average around EC 3000 for preparing all the documents to be filed with IPCO.
4 Make a company seal 5 days EC 200

Agency : Various Office Supply Businesses
Company seals are not required by the Company Act but are in practice required for everyday company
transactions. The cost will depend on the quality of the seal.
5 Apply for a taxpayer identification number (register the company for taxes) 3 days No cost
Agency : Inland Revenue Department (simultaneou
s with
The taxpayer identification registration is done at the Inland Revenue Authority. Application for previous
Registration is done after the company has been incorporated and there is a Certificate of procedure)
Incorporation. The registration form is available on the Government website and can be printed but
cannot be registered online.
6 Register for VAT and obtain an ABST identification number 1 day No cost
s with
The company can register for VAT at the Inland Revenue Authority. The Registration Form is available previous
on the Government website and can be printed but cannot be registered online. Registration is done procedure)
only after the company has been incorporated and there is a Certificate of Incorporation.
Pursuant to the Antigua & Barbuda Sales Tax Act 2006, the company must register for VAT if its
revenues exceed EC 300,000 annually.
7 Register for medical benefits 1 day No cost

Agency : Medical Benefit Scheme
Both the employer's and the employee's monthly contribution to medical benefit are the same at 3.5%
of the employee's basic monthly wage. There is no maximum contribution.
8 Register for social security 1 day No cost

Agency : Social Security Scheme
The company registers with Social Security first and once a registration number is received this is taken
to the Board of Education in order to register there.
9 Register for education levy 1 day No cost

Agency : Board of Education
The education levy is only payable by the employee but the employer is required to deduct the
education levy from the employee's wages and submit to the Inland Revenue Department on the
prescribed form monthly. The employer's contribution to social security is 6% of the employees' basic
monthly wage up to a maximum of EC 390 per month. The employee's contribution is 4% up to a
maximum of EC 260.
. Opening a Company or Personal Bank Account in Antigua and Barbuda, Procedure, Time and Costs
3. Renting Commercial Space in Antigua and Barbuda, Procedure, Time and Costs
4. Registering Property in Antigua and Barbuda, Procedure, Time and Costs

1 Preparation of the sale purchase agreement and instrument of transfer 3 - 4 days Cost included in
Agency : Lawyer (simultaneou step 7
s with
It is standard practice that the sale purchase agreement is prepared by a lawyer. At this point the procedures 1
purchaser usually gives a deposit on the property to the vendor. The vendor guarantees that there are and 3)
no encumbrances (or they are noted in the agreement) and no outstanding taxes associated with the
property. Both companies present the resolution of their shareholders to engage in the transaction, as
well as powers of attorney to act on behalf of the company. The corporate seal for the companies is also
attached to the land transfer document. At the end of this time period, the parties execute the
instrument of transfer (a prescribed form according to Laws of Antigua and Barbuda, revised in 2007,
Vol. 13, CAP 374) and swear the certifications of their signatures.
2 Conduct title search at the Land Registry 1 day XCD 50

Agency : Land Registry (simultaneou
s with
The lawyer checks for encumbrances at the Land Registry. The Registry is computerized, so the lawyer procedures 2
gives the clerk the block and parcel number, and the clerk can obtain title record with this information. and 3)
If the block and parcel number is unknown, an index search of the current Registered Proprietor's name
can be conducted to locate the parcel in question. Since January 2016, it is possible to conduct title
searches online at http://www.lands.gov.ag/landfolio.publicaccess.web/Contents/Home.aspx
3 Obtain the Chief Surveyor's certificate 1 day XCD 35
Agency : Office of the Chief Surveyor (simultaneou
s with
Chief Surveyor's certificate confirming that the boundaries have been authenticated. A transfer filed procedures 1
without this certificate cannot be registered. This is to ensure that the boundaries of registered land and 2)
remain accurate, as well as to avoid mischievous declarations.
Usually surveyors are available, and they would be hired to do the verification and submit the form.
After that the Surveyor’s office just signs and allows the transfer.
The Land Surveys Division must verify the boundaries of the subject property and confirm that they
have been established or re-established with the 10 years preceding the land transfer. The Registered
Land Act Cap 374 was amended on the 25th October, 2007 to include the following provisions namely
Sections 106(6) and 106(7):
(1) "The Registrar may require an instrument of transfer to be accompanied by a survey plan
authenticated by the Chief Land Surveyor indicating that the boundary in respect of the land to which
the instrument relates has been authenticated."
(2) "The Registrar may require a resurvey of the land to which the instrument relates where the
authentication of the boundary was effected more than ten years prior to the date of the instrument."
4 Executed instrument of transfer submitted to the Inland Revenue Commission 14 days no cost
s with
The Inland Revenue Commission checks that all property taxes have been paid, and assesses the value procedure 5)
of the land according to the existing cadastre to decide the amount of stamp duty to be paid.
Occasionally, evaluation officers may need to inspect the property at this point in order to determine its
value if there is a discrepancy in the records of property taxes vs. the cadastral value.
5 Inspection of the property by the Inland Revenue Commission 1 day no cost

s with
The Valuation Division of the Inland Revenue Department assesses the property value for purposes of procedure 4)
charging the stamp duty on the property. To complete this assessment a valuation officer must inspect
the site.
6 Payment of stamp duty on the instrument of transfer at the Inland Revenue Commission 1 day 10% of property
Agency : Inland Revenue Department value
The Law requires that the Vendor pays 7.5% of the property value as transfer tax, and that the
Purchaser pays 2.5 % of the property value as transfer tax. Once it is found that no taxes are owed, the
certification of rates and taxes attached to the transfer is completed by an evaluation officer from the
Property Tax Division. Parties pay the assessed stamp duty and the instrument of transfer is stamped.
7 Instrument of transfer is submitted to the Land Registry for registration 3 weeks XCD30
Agency : Land Registry (registration fee)
+ XCD100 (land
The previous Land Certificate must be submitted to the registry for destruction. The documents for the certificate) +
instrument of transfer are then filed with the date and time submitted noted on the document itself. All lawyer’s fees
copies are sealed by the registry, but only one copy needs the stamps attached. A copy is returned to (2.5% on the first
the buyer. The change of ownership is then noted on the requisite register. This is then submitted to the XCD25,000, 2%
Registrar of Lands for signature, at which point the transfer is considered registered. The application for on the second
a new Land Certificate can occur during this time, and is usually issued simultaneously. The registration XCD$25,000 and
fee of ED$ 20 is paid in stamps at the Antigua & Barbuda Registry of Lands. Lawyers/notaries will usually 1% on the next
keep a supply of these at their offices for this purpose. XCD950,000 and
0.5% on the
The registration fee is EC$20 if not more than 3 months have passed between execution and balance)
registration of the instrument of transfer. Filing a transfer after 3 months of the date of execution is an
additional fee of EC$30 for each three month period but not exceeding the sum of EC$150.
Lawyer/notary fees are usually paid once the Land Certificate is issued and the documents are
registered.
Documents required:
1. Instrument of transfer (2 copies required by law)
2. Proof of payment of all taxes relating to the property
3.Old land certificate
4.Application for new land certificate (optional, blanks available at the registry)
5. Dealing with Construction Permits in Antigua and Barbuda , Procedure, Time and Costs
p
1 Request and obtain results of geo-technical study 25 XCD 8,000
Agency : Private engineering firm days
According to Article 26 of the Antigua and Barbuda Development Land development CAP 235, a soil test should
be conducted for the strength of the building. The foundation must be designed in such a way as to sustain and
transmit to the ground the combined dead load of the building. The proper depth should be reach to prevent
the building from sinking.
2 Obtain location plan 2 days XCD 28

Agency : Survey Department
The location plan is generally obtained from cadastral sheets or DOS maps.This helps indicating the location of
the building to be built.
3 Obtain "approval in principle" 21 XCD 30

Agency : Development Control Authority days
The approval in principle is the verification that the project is in compliance with the urban regulations and that
it can be done on that specific plot of land. The location plan is needed for initiate this procedure.
4 Obtain project clearance from Fire Department 14 No cost

To obtain the project clearance from the Fire department, the approval in principle as well as the location plan
are required.
5 Receive notification of fee charge and pay appropriate fees to the Treasury 2 days XCD 7,035
Agency : Treasury
The applicant submits all the relevant documents, including the project clearance from the Fire department to
the Development Control Authority. The applicant will be informed of the fees to be paid at the treasury. The
proof of payment must be submitted to the Development Control Authority for inspection purposes.
The fee schedule for the Development Control Authority is as follows:
• 0 --500 sq. ft. (gross floor area): XCD 50
• 500 -- 1,000 sq. ft. (gross floor area): XCD 200
• Over 1,000 sq. ft. (gross floor area): XCD 0.50 (per sq. ft.)
6 Obtain planning permission from Development Control Authority 35 No cost

Agency : Development Control Authority days
To obtain planning permission, the architect must submit to the Development Control Authority a three-page
application (with three copies) that includes building designs, a location plan, a site plan, clearance from the fire
department, a proof of ownership and the receipt of payment to the Treasury department. This procedure also
includes approval of sewage services (Septic Tank). There is no sewage system therefore a septic tank is used
which is installed by the builder.
7 Submit and obtain preliminary proposal to the department for review 14 No cost
Agency : Environment Division days
The constructor submits a preliminary proposal on the feasibility of the project to the Environmental Division.
This is done in order to obtain the clearance that the proposed development can happen on this plot of land.
8 Notify the Development Control Authority of commencement of work 1 day No cost

Agency : Development Control Authority
9 Receive a set-out inspection 1 day No charge

When the Department Control Authority issues the building permit it also gives a commencement certificate,
which specifies the number of inspections to be carried out. The building company has to notify the
Development Control Authority 48 hours before the start of each phase, so that the DCA can come and inspect
the construction. However, in practice, this happens rarely, most construction companies do not notify about
the commencement of each phase as there is no legal repercussions for not complying with the regulation.
There is no fine for not notifying the DCA.
The inspection process is regulated by the Land Development and Control Regulations of 1996.
10 Receive inspection after completion of foundation works before concrete filling 1 day No cost
Agency : Development Control Authority (DCA)
Development Control Authority 48 hours before the start of each phase so that the DCA can come and inspect
11 Receive inspection after completion of floor slab 1 day No cost
12 Receive inspection after completion of structural frame and roof 1 day No cost
13 Receive inspection after completion of plumbing and drain works 1 day No cost
14 Notify the Development Control Authority of completion of work 1 day No cost

According to Article 63 of The Physical Planning Act, 2003. No. 6 of 2003, upon completion of the work, the
contractor must also notify the Town and Country Planner, in writing that construction works are now
completed. This will trigger a final inspection to certify that theworks have been constructed in accordance with
the development permit and building regulations.
15 Receive final inspection 1 day No cost

The Development Control Authority checks that the building is in conformity with the issued development
permit.
16 Receive stamp by the Development Control Authority on the water application 1 day No cost
Three application forms for water connection must be stamped by the Development Control Authority stamp
before the owner can actually apply for it.
17 Apply for water connection 1 day No cost

Agency : Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA)
Three application forms for water must be stamped by Development Control Authority stamp before the owner
can apply for water connection. The applicant must provide the following document when applying for water
connection:
• 3 copies of the application form duly stamped by the DCA
• A photo ID of the applicant
• A road map of the area leading to the property, showing important land marks • Block and parcel number of
the property to be serviced
• A brief description of the building including color and material of construction
• A completed Consumer Data Form
18 Obtain inspection by APUA for cost assessment for water connection 7 days No cost
Agency : Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA)
Once the application for water connection has been processed, a team will conduct an on-site inspection to
assess the connection cost.
19 Obtain water connection 21 XCD 850

Agency : Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) days
According to the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), the installation fee for a distance of 150 meters with
a 1” water pipe is XCD 850.
Step Procedure Time Cost

1 Get application form stamped by Development Control Authority 7 days XCD 200
Prior to applying for a new electricity connection, the customer must first have the application form stamped
by the Development Control Authority, certifying that a building permit was issued for this building. All
applications for new service are to be filled out in quadruplets. Once the application forms have been stamped,
they can then be brought to Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA). DCA typically takes a week to process the
application.
2 Submit application to APUA and await site inspection 7 days No cost

Agency : Antigua Public Utilities Authority
The customer submits the stamped application forms to APUA, accompanied by a valid photo I.D. and a
detailed location of where the service is desired. Within 5 working days, APUA will make an inspection. In the
event this service doesn't comply with the authority's standard it will be rejected and will be filed away until
the applicant informs the authority that he/she is ready for a second inspection. Once the engineer has
conducted the site inspection and assessed the requirements of materials, an estimate is prepared identifying
all the necessary components required to complete the installation.
3 Receive internal wiring inspection by APUA 21 XCD 43,200
Agency : Antigua Public Utilities Authority days
Payment of the estimated amount is usually made in whole, but sometimes if the customer requests that it is
paid in two installments - 50% at receiving estimate, and the remaining balance after the internal inspection
has been completed. The utility will proceed with the external works once there is no more outstanding
payments. . The customer is expected to be present during the internal wiring inspection. If the customer has
requested to pay in two installments, then once this inspection is completed, the utility will provide the
necessary instruction to pay for the remaining balance. Only then can the external works be done.
4 Receive external works, meter installation and electricity flow from APUA 7 days No cost
Agency : Antigua Public Utilities Authority
APUA will complete the external works, the meter installation and then electricity will flow. If the customer is
the owner of the building, no security deposit will be charged.
Argentina - República Argentina
Location : South America, borders with Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay
Population: 44,271,041 ( 31st Rank )
Capital: Buenos Aires (13,591,863 population )
Currency : Peso ($) (ARS)
Religion : Roman Catholic 93%, Protestant 2.5% Jewish, 2 %. Other 2.5% includes
Islam, Buddhism, and Evangelical.
Ethnicity : white (mostly Spanish and Italian) 97%, mestizo, Amerindian
Languages Spoken : English (common), Spanish is the official language.
Italian, German, English, and French are also spoken.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
Algeria is
Language in Argentina
Although Argentina's official language is Spanish, Argentinian Spanish is different from the Spanish spoken in Spain. In some ways it sounds
more like Italian than Spanish. There are also many other languages spoken in Argentina, including Italian, German, English and French.
Indigenous languages that are spoken today include Tehuelche, Guarani and Quechua.
Argentinean Society & Culture
Europeans or Latin Americans?
 Most Argentines are primarily of European descent, which separates them from other Latin American countries where European and
Indian cultures are more mixed.
 Culturally and emotionally, Argentines often seem more European than Latin American.
Argentinean Family Values
 The family is the centre of Argentine life with extended families still having prominence.
 The heads of powerful families command widespread respect, but with this comes a responsibility to care for others in terms of
security, jobs, etc and to maintain personal and family honour.
 Honour is in all respects the be all and end all and it routinely affects day-to-day life at home, in the community and in business.
Religion in Argentina
 The Argentine constitution guarantees religious freedom.
 Roman Catholicism acts as the official state religion.
 Other world religions, notably Islam, are gaining a foothold within the country during the last ten to fifteen years.
Expressive Communication Style
 Argentines are on the whole open, blunt, and direct, yet are able to remain tactful and diplomatic.
 Argentines are a warm peoples and their unreservedness brings to the fore their passion and sentimentality.
 In addition they are close communicators physically so will often touch each other when speaking and maintain little physical
distance between speakers.
General Etiquette and Customs
Meeting Etiquette
 Initial greetings are formal and follow a set protocol of greeting the eldest or most important person first.
 A standard handshake, with direct eye contact and a welcoming smile will suffice.
 Maintaining eye contact indicates interest.
 In general, Argentines prefer third-party introductions, so you should wait for your host or hostess to introduce you to others at a
small gathering.
 When leaving, say good-bye to each person individually.
 If invited to dinner at an Argentine's home bring a small gift for the hostess.
 Since taxes on imported spirits are extremely high, a bottle of imported spirits is always well received.
 Do not give knives or scissors as they indicate a desire to sever the relationship.
 Gifts are opened immediately.
Dining Etiquette
 If you are invited to an Argentine home:
 Dress well. Men should wear a jacket and tie. Women should wear a dress or a skirt and blouse.
 Arrive 30 to 45 minutes later than invited for a dinner party. Arriving on time is not the norm.
 Telephone your hosts the following day to thank them.
Watch your Table Manners!

 Wait for the host or hostess to tell you where to sit. There may be a seating plan.
 Table manners are Continental - hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
 Do not begin eating until the hostess invites you to do so.
 Always keep your hands visible when eating, but do not rest your elbows on the table.
 Wait for a toast to be made before taking the first sip of your drink.
 It is considered polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate when you have finished eating.
 When you have finished eating, place your knife and fork across your plate with the prongs facing down and the handles facing to
the right.
 Pouring wine is beset with many rituals and cultural taboos. If at all possible, avoid pouring wine.
Business Etiquette, Customs and Protocol in Argentina
Relationships & Communication
 Argentina is a relationship-driven culture, so it is important to build networks and use them.
 Argentines maintain and use an intricate network of family and friends to call upon for help, favours or assistance.
 If a favour is done for you, you will eventually be called upon to re-pay it.
 Name-dropping and nepotism do not have the negative connotations as it has in the West and can be used to your advantage.
 Above all Argentines like to do business with people they know and trust.
 They prefer face-to-face meetings rather than by telephone or in writing, which are seen as impersonal.
 Once a relationship has developed, their loyalty will be to you rather than to the company you represent.
 Looking good in the eyes of others is important to Argentines. Therefore, they will judge you not only on what you say, but also on
the way you present yourself.
 Avoid confrontation. Argentines do not like publicly admitting they are incorrect.
 It is imperative to show deference and respect to those in positions of authority. When dealing with people at the same level,
communication can be more informal.
 Be alert for nuances and hidden meanings. It is a good idea to repeat details, as you understand them to confirm that you and your
business colleagues are in agreement.
Business Meeting Etiquette
 Appointments are necessary and should be made 1 to 2 weeks in advance, preferably by e-mail or telephone.
 Avoid January and February, which are their vacation times; the middle weeks of July, which is when many go skiing; and during the
two weeks before and after Christmas.
 You should arrive on time for meetings, although the person you are meeting may not be punctual.
 In some older, more bureaucratic organizations, the more important the person you are meeting, the longer they keep you waiting.
 Do not immediately begin discussing business. Small talk helps establish a rapport.
 The person you are meeting with may accept telephone calls and attend to other business while you are there.
 Have all printed material available in both English and Spanish.
 Decisions are not reached at meetings. Meetings are for discussion and to exchange ideas.
Business Negotiations
 Argentines expect to deal with people of similar status.
 Hierarchy is important. Decisions are made at the top of the company. Business moves slowly because it is extremely bureaucratic.
Decisions often require several layers of approval.
 Argentines have a difficult time disagreeing, so do not think that things are going well simply because no one is challenging what you
say.
What to Wear?
 Business attire is formal and conservative, yet stylish.
 Men should wear dark coloured, conservative business suits.
 Women should wear elegant business suits or dresses.
 Good quality accessories are important for both sexes.
 Dress well if you want to make a good impression.
Business Card Etiquette
 Business cards are given without formal ritual.
 Have one side of your business card translated into Spanish.
 Present your business card so the Spanish side faces the recipient.

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2. Opening a Company or Personal Bank Account in Antigua and Barbuda, Procedure, Time and Costs
3. Renting Commercial Space/ Virtual Office in Antigua and Barbuda, Procedure, Time and Costs
6.Hiring Employees in Antigua and Barbuda , Procedure
7.Marketing your Business in Antigua and Barbuda, Precdure, Time and Costs
Learning the Language
Travel and Safety Tips / Hotels to stay
Important Links

Armenia - Հայաստանի Հանրապետություն - Hayastani Hanrapetut’yun
Location : Asia
Capital: Yerevan (1,075,800 population )
Currency : Dram (AMD)
Religion : Armenian Apostolic 94.7%, other Christian 4%, Yezidi 1.3%
Ethnicity : Armenian 97.9%, Yezidi (Kurd) 1.3%, Russian 0.5%, other 0.3%
Languages Spoken : Armenian 97.7%, Yezidi 1%, Russian 0.9%, other 0.4%.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
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Armenians are hospitable. Foreigners should be aware that large meals and lengthy toasts might accompany many of their business and
social contacts. It is also common to give gifts and to take visitors to historical sites. Armenians unacquainted with Western Business norms
might view refusals of traditional Armenian hospitality such as lengthy meals or all-day outings as disrespectful.
Greeting
Men greeting Men – In Armenia, the most common greetings between men are handshakes followed by a kiss on the cheek if the two
parties have a close relationship. For new introductions, just a handshake will usually suffice.
Women greeting Women - In Armenia, women usually greet each other with hugs and a kiss on the cheek. Even if it is a first time meeting
someone, most traditional Armenian women will kiss you on the cheek.
Men and Women – Traditionally, and in the rural areas, a women needs to wait for the man to present his hand for the handshake. Between
good friends a family a kiss on the cheek and a light hug are common.

Important Links
Australia -
Location : Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean
Population: 24,450,561 ( 53rd Rank )
Capital: Sidney (5,131,326 population )
Currency : Australian Dollar (AUD)
Religion : Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%,
non-Christian 11%, other 12.6%
Ethnicity : Caucasian 92%, Asian 7%, aboriginal and other 1%
Languages Spoken : English (official), Chinese 2.1%, Italian and aboriginal dialects.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
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Languages in Australia
English is the primary language used in Australia. Yet their colourful vocabulary, accent, phonetics system and slang ('Strine') can take a lot of
getting used to. In 1788, there were about 250 separate Aboriginal languages spoken in Australia, plus dialects. Today, only two thirds of
these languages survive and only 20 of them (eight per cent of the original 250) are still strong enough to have chance of surviving well into
the next century. In addition to these there are also the languages of immigrants from Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
Australian Society & Culture
Aussie Modesty
 Australians are very down to earth and always mindful of not giving the impression that they think they are better than anyone else.
 They value authenticity, sincerity, and loathe pretentiousness.

 Australians prefer people who are modest, humble, self- deprecating and with a sense of humour.
 They do not draw attention to their academic or other achievements and tend to distrust people who do.
 They often downplay their own success, which may make them appear not to be achievement-oriented.
Mates
 Australians place a high value on relationships.
 With a relatively small population, it is important to get along with everyone, since you never know when your paths may cross
again.
 This leads to a win-win negotiating style, since having everyone come away with positive feelings helps facilitate future business
dealings.
A Multi-Cultural Society
 The initial population of Australia was made up of Aborigines and people of British and Irish descent.
 After World War II there was heavy migration from Europe, especially from Greece, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Yugoslavia,
Lebanon, and Turkey.
 This was in response to the Australian policy of proactively trying to attract immigrants to boost the population and work force.
 In the last thirty years, Australia has liberalised its immigration policy and opened its borders to South East Asia.
 This has caused a real shift in self-perception as Aussies begin to re-define themselves as a multi-cultural and multi-faith society
rather then the old homogenous, white, Anglo- Saxon, Protestant nation.
Australian Etiquette & Customs
Meeting Etiquette
 Australians are not very formal so greetings are casual and relaxed.
 A handshake and smile suffices.
 While an Australian may say, 'G'day' or 'G'day, mate', this may sound patronizing from a foreigner.
 Visitors should simply say, 'Hello' or 'Hello, how are you?'
 Aussies prefer to use first names, even at the initial meeting
 Small gifts are commonly exchanged with family members, close friends, and neighbours on birthdays and Christmas.
 Trades people such as sanitation workers may be given a small amount of cash, or more likely, a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer!
 If invited to someone's home for dinner, it is polite to bring a box of chocolates or flowers to the hostess. A good quality bottle of
wine is always appreciated.
 Gifts are opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
 Many invitations to an Aussies home will be for a 'barbie' (BBQ).

 Guests to a barbeque typically bring wine or beer for their personal consumption. In some cases, very informal barbecues may
suggest that you bring your own meat!
 Arrive on time if invited to dinner; no more than 15 minutes late if invited to a barbeque or a large party.
 Contact the hostess ahead of time to see if she would like you to bring a dish.
 Offer to help the hostess with the preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.
Watch your table manners!
 Table manners are Continental -- hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
 Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the handles facing to the right.
 Keep your elbows off the table and your hands above the table when eating.
Business Etiquette and Customs in Australia
 Australians are very matter of fact when it comes to business so do not need long- standing personal relationships before they do
business with people.
 Australians are very direct in the way they communicate.
 There is often an element of humour, often self-deprecating, in their speech.
 Aussies often use colourful language that would be unthinkable in other countries.
 Appointments are necessary and relatively easy to schedule.
 They should be made with as much lead time as possible.
 Punctuality is important in business situations. It is better to arrive a few minutes early than to keep someone waiting.
 Meetings are generally relaxed; however, they are serious events.
 If an Australian takes exception to something that you say, they will tell you so.
 If you make a presentation, avoid hype, making exaggerated claims, or bells and whistles.
 Present your business case with facts and figures. Emotions and feelings are not important in the Australian business climate.
Negotiating and Decision Making
 Australians get down to business quickly with a minimum amount of small talk.
 They are quite direct and expect the same in return. They appreciate brevity and are not impressed by too much detail.
 Negotiations proceed quickly. Bargaining is not customary. They will expect your initial proposal to have only a small margin for
negotiation.
 They do not like high-pressure techniques.
 Decision-making is concentrated at the top of the company, although decisions are made after consultation with subordinates,
which can make decision making slow and protracted.
What to wear?
 Business dress is conservative in Melbourne and Sydney.
 Men should wear a dark coloured, conservative business suit.
 Women should wear a smart dress or a business suit.
 In Brisbane or other tropical areas, depending on the job function and company culture, men may wear shirts, ties and Bermuda
shorts.
Business Cards
 Business cards are exchanged at the initial introduction without formal ritual.
 If you are not given a business card, it is not an insult; the person simply may not have one.

Important Links
Austria -
Location : Central Europe, north of Italy and Slovenia bordering Czech
Republic , Germany , Hungary.
Capital: Vienna (1,889,083 population )
Currency : Euro (€) (EUR)
Religion : Roman Catholic 73.6%, Protestant 4.7%, Muslim 4.2%, other 3.5%.
Ethnicity : Austrians 91.1%, former Yugoslavs 4% (includes Croatians,
Slovenes, Serbs, and Bosniaks), Turks 1.6%, German 0.9%
Languages Spoken : English (common), German (official nationwide), Slovene
(official in Carinthia), Croatian (official in Burgenland), Hungarian (official in Burgenland)
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
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Language in Austria
German is the official language spoken by 98% of the population as mother tongue. There are distinct differences between the many regional
dialects, and also a wide variation in the 'standard' Hochdeutsch spoken from region to region. Slovene is an official language in the southern
province of Carinthia. Other minority languages include Croatian (0.5%) and Hungarian (0.1%). All three languages are taught alongside
German in some bilingual schools. Another minority language is Slovak.
Austrian Society & Culture
Austrian Family Values
 The family forms the basis of the Austrian social structure.

 The family is generally small and, due to lack of migration, generally closely knit within a certain town or village.
 Weekends are generally devoted to family activities such as outdoor activities.
 Eating dinner together in the evening is very much the norm.
 Sundays re usually bookmarked for visiting grandparents for dinner, and/or, enjoying a hike in the country together.
The Austrian Home
 Austrians take much pride in their homes, keeping them neat and tidy.
 In a formal culture such as theirs, the home is the place where people relax and let their hair down.
 Only close friends and relatives are invited into the house, so it is a place where more informal communication may occur.
 Neighbourly etiquette also has its rules that must be observed. It is imperative that common areas such as sidewalks, pavements,
corridors (in flats), and steps be kept clean at all times by all associated with them.
Conservatism
 Austrians are generally conservative people.
 They are prudent and moderate in their behaviour.
 'Regimentation' and 'compartmentalization' are a useful ways of describing how they organise their lives.
 They extend social invitations in advance of the event, and the more formal the occasion the greater the time between the invitation
and the event itself, so that they can be certain that their guests do not have a prior engagement.
Appearances Matter
 Presentation and dressing well are important to Austrians.
 Even when dressed informally, they are neat and conservative; their clothes are never ostentatious.
 There is sometimes a strict protocol for dressing appropriately in different situations: formal wear for the theatre or a concert, and
semiformal wear for better restaurants.
 Some high level events may have a dress code and will turn away patrons who are not dressed properly.
 Most Austrian women dress up to go shopping, since they dress elegantly, if conservatively, at all times, especially when they will be
public.
Austrian Etiquette & Customs
Etiquette in Austria
 Greetings are formal.
 A quick, firm handshake is the traditional greeting.
 Maintain eye contact during the greeting.
 Some Austrian men, particularly those who are older, may kiss the hand of a female.
 A male from another country should not kiss an Austrian woman's hand.
 Women may also kiss men, but men never kiss other men.
 Titles are very important and denote respect. Use a person's title and their surname until invited to use their first name.
 When entering a room, shake hands with everyone individually, including children.
 In general, Austrians exchange gifts with family and close friends at Christmas (generally Christmas Eve) and birthdays.
 Children receive gifts on December 6th, the feast of St. Nicholas
 If invited to dinner at an Austrian's house, bring a small gift of consumables such as chocolates.
 If giving flowers, always give an odd number as except for 12, even numbers mean bad luck.
 Do not give red carnations, lilies, or chrysanthemums.
 Gifts should be nicely wrapped.
 Gifts are usually opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
 If you are invited to an Austrian's house:
 Arrive on time. Punctuality is a sign of respect.
 Dress conservatively and elegantly.
 In some houses you may be asked to remove your shoes, although the custom is not as prevalent as it once was.
 Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.
 Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
 Put your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down.
 Do not begin eating until the hostess says 'mahlzeit' or 'Guten Appetit'.
 Cut as much of your food with your fork as possible, since this compliments the cook by saying the food is very tender.
 Finish everything on your plate.
 Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the handles facing to the right.
 The host gives the first toast. Everyone lifts and clinks glasses, looks the person making the toast in the eye and says, 'Prost!'.
 An honoured guest offers a toast of thanks to the host at the end of the meal.
Business Etiquette and Protocol in Austria
 First impressions are important and you will be judged on your clothing and demeanour.
 Although Austrians prefer third-party introductions, they do not need a personal relationship in order to do business.
 They will be interested in any advanced university degrees you might have as well as the amount of time your company has been in
business.
 Austrians show deference to people in authority, so it is imperative that they understand your level relative to their own.
 It is imperative that you exercise good manners in all your business interactions.
 There is little joking or small talk in the office as they are serious and focused on accomplishing business objectives/goals.
 Communication is formal and follows strict rules of protocol.
 Always use the formal word for you 'sie' unless invited to use the informal 'du'. Address people by their academic title and surname.
 You may be referred to simply by your surname. This is not a culture that uses first names except with family and close friends.
 Austrians are suspicious of hyperbole, promises that sound too good to be true, or displays of emotion.
 In many situations, Austrians will be direct to the point of bluntness. This is not an attempt to be rude, it is simply indicative of their
desire to move the discussion along.
 Expect a great deal of written communication, both to back up decisions and to maintain a record of discussions and outcomes.
 Appointments are necessary and should be made 3 to 4 weeks in advance when meeting with private companies.
 Do not try to schedule meetings in August, the two weeks surrounding Christmas, or the week before Easter.
 Punctuality is taken extremely seriously. If you expect to be delayed, telephone immediately and offer an explanation.
 It is extremely rude to cancel a meeting at the last minute and it could ruin your business relationship.
 Meetings are formal.
 Presentations should be accurate and precise.
 Have back-up material and be prepared to defend everything: Austrians are meticulous about details.
 Meetings adhere to strict agendas, including starting and ending times. If you have an agenda, it will be followed.
 Follow-up with a letter outlining what was agreed, what the next steps are, and who is the responsible party.Business Negotiation
 Do not sit until invited and told where to sit. There is a rigid protocol to be followed.
 Meetings adhere to strict agendas, including starting and ending times.
 A small amount of getting-to- know-you conversation may take place before the business conversation begins.
 Austrians are more concerned with long-term relationships than making a quick sale.
 Rank and position are important. Since most companies are relatively small, it is often quite easy to meet with the decision- maker.
 Business is conducted slowly. You will have to be patient and not appear ruffled by the strict adherence to protocol.
 Austrians are very detail- oriented and want to understand every innuendo before coming to agreement.
 Avoid confrontational behaviour or high-pressure tactics. It can work against you.
What to Wear?
 Business dress is conservative and follows most European conventions.
 Men should wear dark coloured, conservative business suits with white shirts.
 Women should wear either business suits or conservative dresses, complimented with elegant accessories.
Business Cards
 Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual.
 Have one side of your card translated into German. Although not a business necessity, it demonstrates an attention to detail.
 Include any advanced academic degrees or honours on your business card.
 If your company has been in business for a long time, include the founding date on your card as it demonstrates stability.
Important Links
Azerbaijan - Azərbaycan Respublikası

Location : Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia.
Capital: Baku (2,374,000 population )
Currency : Manat (AZN)
Religion : Muslim 93.4%, Russian Orthodox 2.5%, Armenian Orthodox 2.3%
Ethnicity : Azeri 90.6%, Dagestani 2.2%, Russian 1.8%, Armenian 1.5%,
Languages Spoken : English (common), Azerbaijani (Azeri) 90.3%, Lezgi 2.2%,
Russian 1.8%, Armenian 1.5%.
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
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Language in Azerbaijan
The official language is Azerbaijani or "Azeri", a Turkic language. In 1994 it was estimated that some 82% of Azerbaijan's citizens speak
Azerbaijani as their first language. In addition, 38% of Azerbaijanis speak Russian fluently to accommodate Russian domination of the
economy and politics.
The Azerbaijani language is part of the 'Oghuz', or 'Western Turkic', group of Turkic languages, together with Anatolian Turkish (spoken in
Turkey) and Turkmen (spoken in Turkmenistan). Dialectical differences between Azerbaijani and Anatolian Turkish have been attributed to
Mongolian and Turkic influences. Despite these differences, Anatolian Turkish speakers and Azerbaijanis can often understand one another if
they speak carefully. Spoken Azerbaijani includes several dialects. Since the nineteenth century, Russian loanwords (particularly technical
terms) and grammatical and lexical structures have entered the Azerbaijani language in Russian-controlled Azerbaijan, as have Persian words
in Iranian Azerbaijan. The resulting variants remain mutually intelligible, however.
Azeri Society & Culture
The Family
 The family forms the basic social structure in Azerbaijan.
 This goes back to many Azeris' history as rural dwellers where a clan (hoj) would share land and work together to form a tight circle.
 A hoj would sometimes consist of up to 40 members.
 Nowadays the family is a lot smaller - usually a married couple with children and possibly grandparents.
 Families still work as an interdependent unit andexpect to receive both financial and emotional support from others.
 Gender roles are still fairly traditional in much of Azerbaijan with the man being the bread-winner and woman taking care of the
domestic side of things.
Hierarchal Society
 Azeris are still a very hierarchical society.
 Culture, traditions, family and religious affiliation often take precedence over official laws.
 When the government has trouble resolving an issue, the president often appeals to the "agh sakkal" (prominent and respected
people) to help find a solution. "Agh sakkal" means "white beard".
Folklore and Superstition
 Azeri culture, due to its rural roots and culturally rich tapestry, has many superstitions. Examples include:
 A cat crossing your path means bad luck in business.
 Salt accidentally spilled means you are about to quarrel. Sprinkle sugar on the salt to counter this.
 Leaving scissors with opened blades brings misfortune and even death.
 If you meet a person with empty buckets, you are bound for misfortune.
 If you meet a person with bread and full bags, you will have good luck.
 Never hurry to a funeral ceremony.
 Do not cross the way the funeral train goes.
 If the first person you meet on your way to work is male, you will have good luck.
 Do not lend money or bread at night.
 Throwing a bowl of water in the wake of a person who sets off for a business trip or long journey brings the person luck and helps
them to return home safe and sound.
Azeri Customs and Etiquette

Meeting and Greeting
 Like most cultures in the area, Azeris like warm and friendly greetings.
 Men greet each other with a handshake, a kiss on the cheek and "salaam" (literally 'peace' but meaning 'hello').
 Women hug and kiss each other once on the left cheek. Azeri women do not generally shake hands among themselves, although
many will shake hands with a foreigner.
 Males should wait and see if a woman extends her hand (although most will the more religious may not) - if they do shake it lightly.
 Always take a moment to ask about family, health and business.
 First names are generally used in social situations if the speakers are of similar ages.
 If you do not know the person well, use their first name followed by an appropriate title. For women, use "hanum" ("woman"). For
men, use "bey" ("Mr").
 Younger people always initiate greetings with older people.
 Azeris mainly exchange gifts for birthdays, weddings and anniversaries.
 In Azeri culture it is the thought behind the gift, rather than the price, that matters.
 It is customary to refuse a gift at least twice before reluctantly accepting it. Always insist it is too much and the giver should not have
gone to any trouble.
 If you are invited to an Azeri's home for dinner, bring flowers or pastries to the hostess. Ask the shop where you buy them to wrap
them for you. It is considered polite to reciprocate hospitality with a small gift.
 Always give an odd number of flowers. Even numbers are reserved for funerals.
 Avoid giving alcohol unless you are certain your host partakes.
 Gifts are generally not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a Azeri home for food:
 Remove your shoes before entering the house. You may be offered slippers to wear.
 Punctuality is not paramount. Arriving within 30 minutes of the stipulated time is socially acceptable,
 Dress casually but smartly. Never wear tight or revealing clothing.
 If there are many people present shake hands with everyone.
 Table manners are fairly formal. If in doubt watch what others do.
 Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.
 Keep your elbows off the table and your hands above the table when eating.
 The hostess generally serves the food. The elderly are served first, then the guests, and finally the children.
 Use your right hand only to eat and to pass things.

Business Etiquette, Customs and Protocol
Communication
 Although direct communication is seen as a postive in Azerbaijan, one also has to be careful to employ such directness.
 Information should always be presented in a way that is diplomatic and sensitive so as not to cause loss of face.
 The level of directness you can use is dictated by who you are speaking with.
 If it is a new, formal or important relationship diplomacy s critical. If the relationship is well developed and a level of openness has
been established a little more honesty is fine.
Business Cards
 There is no formal ritual surrounding exchange of cards.
 It is a good idea to take plenty with you as it still forms the basic means of keeping contact details as opposed to electronic means.
 Give and receive cards with your right hand.
Business Meetings
 To arrange a meeting in Azerbaijan an introductory letter is needed outlining your company, history and the purpose of your visit. It
is always a good idea to have such correspondence translated in Azeri to ensure they understand and it also makes you stand out.
 There is a certain amount of protocol one has to follow in meetings as Azeris are quite sensitive to status, title, who sits down first,
enters the room first, etc. It is best to follow the lead.
 Politeness is important and is all part of the relationship building process.
 Discussions will often start slowly over tea and the topics of discussion may be completely irrelevant. However, this is the make or
break part of your relationship - if you can not strike up a rapport the chances of doing business together are slim.
 Always maintain eye contact while speaking since Azeris take this as a sign of sincerity. If someone does not look them in the eye
while speaking, they think the person has something to hide.
 Decisions are reached slowly.
 Never appear impatient or attempt to rush an Azeri to make a decision.
 Expect a great deal of bargaining and haggling. - Azeris are are tough negotiators.
Important Links

Bahamas - ( Off Shore Company )
Capital: Nassau (274,400 population )
Currency : Bahamian dollar (BSD) (US dollars widely accepted)
Religion : Baptist 35.4%, Anglican 15.1%, Roman Catholic 13.5%,
Pentecostal 8.1%, Church of God 4.8%, Methodist 4.2%
Ethnicity : English (official), Creole (among Haitian immigrants).
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
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Important Links

Kingdom of Bahrain - ‫مملكة البحرين‬
Location : Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia
Population: 1,492,584 ( 152nd Rank )
Capital: Manama (157,474 population )
Currency : Bahraini dinar (BHD)
Religion : Shi'a Muslim 70%, Sunni Muslim 30%
Ethnicity : Bahraini 63%, Asian 19%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%.
Languages Spoken : Arabic. English, Farsi and Urdu
Opportunities :
Challenges :
Introduction
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Language in Bahrain
Arabic is the official language of Bahrain, but English is widely spoken. It is used in business and is a compulsory second language in schools.
Among the non-Bahraini population, many people speak Farsi, the official language of Iran, or Urdu, the official language of Pakistan. Arabic is
spoken by almost 200 million people in more than 22 countries. It is the language of the Qur'an, the Holy Book of Islam, and of Arab poetry
and literature. While spoken Arabic varies from country to country, classical Arabic has remained unchanged for centuries. The Arabic
language originated in Saudi Arabia in pre-Islamic times and spread across the Middle East during the 7th and 8th centuries. The official
language of Bahrain is Modern Standard Arabic, a modernized form of classical Arabic. It is used in schools, for official purposes and for
written communication within the Arabic-speaking international community. In Bahrain, there are differences between the dialects spoken in
urban areas and those spoken in rural areas.
Although state radio and television are broadcast primarily in Arabic, newspapers and magazines in other languages are available. Al-Ayam is
a leading Arabic newspaper. The Bahrain Tribune and the Gulf Daily News are English newspapers.
Bahraini Culture and Society
Islam
Islam is practised by the majority of Bahrainis and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam emanated from what is
today Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc)
to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples.
As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet
(the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in
the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. The weekend is Friday and Saturday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting
includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink,
smoke, or chew gum in public. Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The
festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced
schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.
The Family/Tribe
 The extended family or tribe forms the basis of both the social structure and individual identity.
 Loyalty to the family comes before other social relationships, even business.
 Nepotism is viewed positively, since it guarantees hiring people who can be trusted, which is crucial in a country where working with
people one knows and trusts is of primary importance.
 The family is very private. Prying questions should be avoided.
 It is ordinary for large extended families to live in the same house, compound, or village.
Women in Bahrain
 Women are more publicly active in Bahrain than in most Arab countries.
 Many Bahraini women are not completely veiled; however, some still wear a head-covering in public.
 Bahraini women are highly educated and are well represented in all of the major professions, as well as various women's societies
and organizations.
 About one-quarter of Bahraini women hold jobs outside the home.
 Women have the right to vote.
Etiquette and Customs in Bahrain
Meeting Etiquette
 Bahrainis are tremendously friendly

 Greetings are given with a sense of enthusiasm and delight at meeting you or seeing you again.
 Smiling and direct eye contacts are crucial.
 Men shake hands and kiss each other on the cheek.
 Women generally hug and kiss close friends.
 When Bahrainis greet each other they take their time and converse about general things.
 Extended family and very close friends may exchange gifts for birthdays, Ramadan, Eid, Hajj, and other celebratory occasions.
 If you are invited to a Bahraini's home, bring a houseplant, box of imported chocolates, or a small gift from your home country.
 Always say that the gift is for your host, never the hostess, who you may not meet.
 Flowers do not make good gifts from a man, although a woman could give them to her hostess.
 Do not give alcohol.
 Gifts are given with two hands.
 Gifts are not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
 Bahrainis enjoy entertaining friends and family in their homes, although they will also socialize in restaurants, clubs, and
international hotels.
 Entertainment is often same-sex only.
 Friends may be invited to a Bahraini's home.
If you are invited to a Bahraini's house:
 Check to see if the host is wearing shoes. If not, remove yours at the door.
 Dress conservatively.
 Do not discuss business at a social occasion.
 Try to arrive at the invited time. Punctuality is appreciated.
 Show respect for the elders by greeting them first.
 Accept any offer of coffee or tea. To turn down hospitality may be considered a rejection of the person.
 If you are invited for a meal, there may be a great deal of socializing and small talk before the meal is served. The evening will end
quite quickly after the meal.
 It is considered good manners to reciprocate any hospitality you receive.
 If the meal is on the floor, sit cross-legged or kneel on one knee. Never let your feet touch the food mat.
 Eat only with the right hand.
 Try a bit if everything that is served.
 Meals are generally served family-style.
 Honoured guests are often offered the most prized pieces such as a sheep's head.
 There is often more food than you can eat. You will be urged to take more food despite saying you are full.
 It is considered polite to leave some food on your plate when you have finished eating. This demonstrates that your host has
showered his guests with generosity and abundance.
Business Etiquette and Protocol in Bahrain
Relationships and Communication
 Bahrainis do not require as much personal space as most western cultures.
 Since Bahrainis prefer to do business with those with whom they have a personal relationship, a letter of introduction from someone
they know allows them to trust you.
 They will spend a great deal of time on the getting-to-know-you part of relationship building.
 You must be patient. Impatience is considered bad manners and may deleteriously affect future business dealings.
 The Bahrain business community is relatively small and your behaviour will quickly become public knowledge.
 Relationships take time to grow and must be nurtured. This may require several visits.
 Bahrainis tend to be indirect communicators who tell people what they think they want to hear if to do otherwise would make the
other person uncomfortable.
 It is a good idea, therefore, to privately confirm agreements given in public so you may determine if the person was merely trying to
save face.
 Communication is also quite formal and follows a hierarchical structure.
 Always demonstrate deference to the most senior person in the group
 Bahrainis are non- confrontational
 If displeased with your behaviour, Bahraini business people may prefer to have an intermediary discuss the situation with you rather
than confront you themselves.
 Bahrainis often touch others while conversing to enhance communication.
 Under no circumstances should you slap a Bahraini on the back or point at them with your finger.
 Avoid looking at your watch when speaking with Bahraini businesspeople, as it is a sign of disrespect.
 Appointments are necessary
 Morning meetings are generally preferred. Do not try to schedule meetings in July and August as many Bahrainis leave the country
during the worst of the summer heat.
 Arrive at meetings promptly.
 Meetings are generally not private until a relationship has developed or there is a need to discuss matters confidentially.
 In general, Bahrainis have an open-door policy, even when they are in a meeting. This means you may expect frequent interruptions.
Others may wander into the room and start a different discussion.
 Meetings are often interrupted. You will have to repeatedly refocus people back to the topic.
 Business meetings start after prolonged inquiries about health, family, etc.
Business Negotiation Etiquette
 Good personal relationships are important since trust is required in order to conduct business.
 Bahrainis are event rather than time-driven. The actual meeting is more important than the timeliness or outcome.
 Companies are hierarchical. The highest-ranking person reaches decisions.
 Decisions are reached slowly. If you try to rush things, you will give offense and risk your business relationship.
 Do not use high-pressure sales tactics.
 There is a tendency to avoid giving bad news and to give flowery acceptances, which may only mean "perhaps". . If you change the
lead negotiator, negotiations will start over.
 Proposals and contracts should be kept simple.
What to Wear?
 Business attire is conservative.
 Men should wear lightweight, good quality, conservative suits, at least to the initial meeting.
 Dressing well gives a good impression.
 Women should avoid giving offense by wearing extremely conservative clothing.
Using Titles
 Titles are important. Use the honorific Mister and any academic or political title and the first name. 'Sheikh' is a good title to use for
old men, or 'Hajji' for those who have undertaken the religious obligation.
 Do not use only the first name until expressly invited to drop the titles.
Business Cards
 Business cards are given to everyone you meet.
 Have one side of your card translated into Arabic.
 Present your card so the Arabic side is readable to the recipient.
 Present and receive business cards with two hands.
 Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting it into a business card holder.

Important Links
Bangladesh গণপ্রজাতন্ত্রী বাংলাদেশ

Location : Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India
Capital: Dhaka (14,399,000 population )
Currency : Taka (৳)(BDT)
Religion : Muslim 83%, Hindu 16%, other 1%
Ethnicity : Bengali 98%, tribal groups, non-Bengali Muslims, other, 2%.
Languages Spoken : English (common), Bangla (official, also known as Bengali).
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Languages in Bangladesh
The official language is Bangla, also known as Bengali. It is the first language of more than 98 percent of the population. It is written in its own
script, derived from that of Sanskrit. Some people in Bangladesh can also speak English as well as Hindi and Urdu.
Bangla vocabulary shows many influences. These include a strong Islamic influence seen in the greetings of "Salaam aleykum" (Peace be unto
you) and "Khoda hafez" (God Bless you) and nouns from the Arab world such as "dokan" (shop), "tarikh"(date), "kolom"(pen) and "bonduk"
(gun). In West Bengal the Hindu influence is greater with the use of the Hindu greeting "Namashkar".
English has also had an influence on Bangla. During the days of the Raj many words of English origin such as "tebil" (table), "tiffin" (archaic in
modern day English meaning snack box) entered Bangla. In more recent time the ever rising global nature of English has lead to words such
as "television", "telephone", "video" and "radio" being adopted by Bangla. However, unlike India, there has never been the need for English
as a lingua franca and thus Bangla is the state language of Bangladesh.
Bangladeshi Culture & Society
Hierarchy
 Bangladesh is a hierarchical society.
 People are respected because of their age and position.
 Older people are naturally viewed as wise and are granted respect.
 Bangladeshis expect the most senior male, by age or position, to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group. This is also
valid in businesses, the majority of which will be family owned/run.
Religion
 The majority of Bangladeshis are Muslim. However, most still very much mix this with pre-Islam folk traditions.
 Bangladeshis identify with the folk traditions of Bengali culture. This includes belief in shamanism and the powers of fakirs (Muslim
holy men who are exorcists and faith healers), ojhaa (shamins with magical healing powers), and Bauls (religious mendicants and
wandering musicians).
 There is a strong tradition of music, dance, and literature that includes classical devotions of Hindu and Muslim music.
Festivals
 Islam defines many of the festivals in Bangaldesh. These include two Eids (one after Ramadan and one after the Hajj) Shab-e-Qadr
(the night of power), Milad un-Nabi (birth date of the Prophet Muhammad) and Shab-e-Barat (the night of the fortune).
 Hindu influences festivals include Durga Puja and Kali Puja (community worshipping of Goddess Durga and Kali).
 On the whole an entire community participates in each other's religious ceremonies.
Customs and Etiquette in Bangladesh
Meeting & Greeting
 Greetings usually take place between members of the same sex.
 The hand shake is common although they may feel rather limp.
 Women will only really be met within business contexts and even so, it is best to wait to see if a hand is extended before doing so.
 The traditional greeting for Muslims is Asalamu alaikum to which the response is wa alaikum salam.
 Naming conventions are very much based on the hierarchical nature of Bangladeshi society.
 Bangladeshis will append a suffix to a person's name to denote respect and the level of closeness between the two people.
 In general, age dictates how people are addressed.
 If people are of the same age, they use first names.
 If the person being addressed is older than the speaker, the person is called by their first name and a suffix that denotes the family
relationship.
 Gifts are mainly given between family members at religious holidays, especially after Ramadan and Hajj.
 In cities, it is becoming more common for gifts to be given on birthdays.
 In Bangladesh the importance of gifts is in the thought rather than the value. Part of the reason lies in the fact that gifts should be
generally reciprocated and it would be considered rude to offer someone a gift that is difficult to reciprocate.
Some general gift giving etiquette guidelines include:
 When visiting a Bangladeshi's home, it is more common to bring pastries, sweets or good quality chocolates.
 If bringing flowers avoid frangipanis as they are used at funerals.
 Similarly white flowers indicate mourning.
 Do not give alcohol or products containing non-halal meat to Muslims.
 Never give money.
 It is considered bad form to open gifts in front of the giver.
 Gifts are given with two hands.
Dining Etiquette
 If meeting with people for dinner here are some basic rules on etiquette and protocol:
 If invited to a meal it is rude to flatly turn the invitation down. One should always use less direct language to suggest that it may be
difficult such as "I will try." or "I will have to see".
 Meals both inside the house and outside will usually be same sex.
 Many people eat with their hands and it may be that you share food from a common dish.
 It would not be seen as impolite if you asked for utensils.
 Ensure you wash your hands before eating.
 Guests are generally served first then the oldest, continuing in order of seniority.
 Do not start eating until the oldest person at the table begins.
 You will constantly be urged to take more food. Simply saying "I'm full" will be taken as a polite gesture and not accepted at face
value. It is therefore always best to pace yourself to allow for more servings.
 The left hand is considered unclean so only eat, pass dishes or drink with the right hand.
Business Etiquette, Protocol and Customs in Bangladesh
Customs and Etiquette BangladeshCommunication Styles
 Bangladeshis are quite implicit/indirect communicators. They tend to communicate in long, rich and contextualized sentences which
only make sense when properly understood in relation to body language.
 It is important for people who come from implicit/direct cultures to understand that their communication styles may be seen as
rude and the information provided inadequate.
 Personal space is less of an issue in Bangladesh than many European cultures. Bengalis stand close when speaking to someone of the
same gender and touch is common.
 However, when speaking with a woman the space is often increased.
Meeting & Greeting
 Business etiquette in Bangladesh is reasonably formal. Proper behaviour is expected.
 Men greet each other with a handshake upon arriving and leaving.
 Foreign men should nod to a Bangladeshi woman unless she extends her hand. Businessmen should be addressed by the term
"Bahadur" ("Sir"), while women may be addressed as "Begum" ("Madam"). This may be used with or without the surname.
 Wait until your counterpart moves to a first name basis before you do so.
Business Card Etiquette
 Business cards are exchanged after the initial introduction.
 Educational qualifications are valued so include any university degrees.
 Present your business card with the right hand.
 Treat business cards given to you with respect. Merely glancing at it then throwing it on the table would be rude. Study it, comment
on it and ideally place it into a business card holder.
Business Meetings
 Meetings in Bangladesh are generally the place where decisions are disseminated rather than made.
 They will usually be led by the most senior present who sets the agenda, the content, and the pace of the activities.
 Meeting structures are not very linear in Bangladesh. There may be an agenda and a starting time, but they only serve as guidelines.
 Completing a meeting fully takes priority over time and may extend well past any scheduled end time.
 Meetings may commence with some small talk.
 Communication is formal and follows a hierarchical structure. Deference to the most senior person in the group is expected. This is
especially true when dealing with government officials.
 One should never let their level of professionalism slip. Casual behaviour may be misinterpreted as a lack of respect.
 Never lose your temper or show emotion. This may lead to a loss of face which will mean a loss of dignity and respect.
 The need to avoid a loss of face is also reflected in communication styles. Rather than say no or disappoint people Bangladeshis will
phrase sentiments in such as way that it is up to people to read between the lines to understand what is being implied. Phrases such
as "we will try", "that may be difficult", or "we will have to give that some though" may really mean "this can't be done". . Therefore,
it is important to ask questions in several ways so you can be certain what was meant by a vague response. Silence is often used as a
communication tool.
 Many people comment on the lack of smiles in Bangladesh. This has nothing to do with unfriendliness but rather related to the fact
that a serious face is believed to demonstrate maturity.
Important Links
Barbados ( Off Shore Company )

Population: 285,719 ( 181st Rank )
Capital: Bridgetown (110,000 population )
Currency : Barbadian dollar ($) (BBD)
Religion : Protestant 67% (Anglican 40%, Pentecostal 8%,
Methodist 7%, other 12%), Roman Catholic 4%
Ethnicity : Black 90%, white 4%, Asian and mixed 6%..
Languages Spoken : English.
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Important Links

Belarus ( Off Shore Company )
Location : Europe
Population: 9,468,338 ( 93rd Rank )
Capital: Minsk (1,982,444 population )
Currency : Belarusian ruble (BYN)
Religion : Eastern Orthodox 80%, other (including Roman Catholic,
Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim) 20%
Ethnicity : Belarusian 81.2%, Russian 11.4%, Polish 3.9%, Ukrainian 2.4%.
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Doing Business in 200 Countries A-Z, Everything You Need To Know

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Doing Business in 200 Countries A-Z Made Easy + Websites

In depth - Ultimate Guide

Travel Coupons and Codes

Country Comparison Table

Antigua and Barbuda

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Central African Republic

Congo, Democratic Republic of the

Congo, Republic of the

East Timor (Timor-Leste)

Micronesia, Federated States of

Papua New Guinea

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Trinidad and Tobago

United Arab Emirates

Population: 34,656,032 ( 39th Rank )

Capital: Kabul ( 3,300,000 population )

Currency : Afghani (AFS)

Ethnicity : Pashtun, Tajik, Hazara, Uzbek

Languages Spoken : English ( uncommon ), Dari ( Iranian Farsi ) and Pashto.

Opportunities : Unsaturated/ undeveloped market for all business sectors.

Challenges : Security, Corruption, Rule of law, Local knowledge, unskilled labour

Business & Government Connections, unreliable infrastructure.

35 % of the population is unemployed and 36 % live below the poverty line .

Business Culture and Etiquette

Considerations before Meeting

First Impression on Meetings

Mixing between genders

Gift Giving Etiquette

Do’s and don’ts – Cultural Sensitivity

4. Consuming alcohol is widely discouraged, should be drank in privacy only.

Business Process and Procedures

1. Starting a business in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

Obtain husband's approval to leave home

Government Agency to visit: Afghan Domicile

Time to complete: 1 day Costs: No charge

Step Procedure Time Cost

The applicant must provide the following documents to register:

1- An application form (available online) http://www.acbr.gov.af/registration.html

• Name of the company

Steps Procedure Time Cost

The applicant must provide the following documents to register:

1. Fill out and print the application form available online

2 Receiving the Account Opening Letter 14 AFN 2000-

3. Renting Commercial Space in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

Consultant : Naveed Merchant, Email : [email protected], Contact : +923002005919, website :

4. Registering Property in Afghanistan, Procedure, Time and Costs

Steps Procedure Time Cost

7 Seller pays property taxes at a designated bank 1 day 3% or 2 %

For property values below AF 1 million, the registration fee is 2%.

9 The buyer applies for title transfer 1 day to No Cost

Steps Procedure Time Cost

3 Obtain the sketch of the land plot 3 days No cost

4 Obtain zoning approval from Kabul Municipality 7 days No cost

5 Obtain building permit from Kabul Municipality 300 USD 6,000

7 Receive random inspection from the police 1 day No charge