Mattar Law Firm, Beirut.

Branch of a Foreign Company in Lebanon

Foreign companies may establish a branch office in Lebanon to carry out commercial, industrial, or service activities directly under the foreign parent company. A branch is not a separate legal entity but is fully governed by the laws applicable in Lebanon.

Main Characteristics

  • No minimum capital requirement
  • Full foreign ownership permitted
  • Same legal personality as the foreign parent
  • Liabilities are assumed by the parent company
  • Must appoint a local legal representative (attorney)

Permitted Activities

  • Same as the parent company (commercial, industrial, etc.)
  • Can issue invoices, sign contracts, open bank accounts

Registration Process

  1. Submit a legalized copy of the parent company’s incorporation documents
  2. Draft power of attorney and appoint local attorney
  3. Register with Commercial Registry
  4. Register with Ministry of Finance and obtain VAT number

Why Set Up a Branch?

  • To maintain full control from abroad
  • To test the Lebanese market before incorporating locally
  • To reduce cost and time compared to SAL or SARL

Mattar Law Firm assists with all branch setup requirements, legal translation, registration, and compliance.

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