Setting up a representative office will ensure a smooth and successful entry of your company into new markets.
What is a representative office of a company in Belarus?
A representative office in Belarus is a non-legal entity extension of a foreign company designed to promote its interests and explore business opportunities within the country.
It cannot engage in commercial activities but can represent the parent company, conduct market research, facilitate contracts, and support local customers. Establishing a representative office in Belarus offers foreign companies a strategic foothold to access the Belarusian market, understand its dynamics, and build relationships with potential partners and clients.
What does it mean to open a foreign branch office in Belarus?
Opening a branch office requires obtaining necessary permits and complying with local regulations. It can be a beneficial move for companies seeking a physical presence in Belarus to enhance visibility, build trust, and lay the groundwork for future expansion.
What are the advantages of opening a representative office in Belarus?
A representative office in Belarus offers foreign companies several advantages. It serves as a gateway to the Belarusian market, providing a physical presence and facilitating local operations. By establishing a representative office, companies can:
- Conduct market research: Gain valuable insights into consumer preferences, market trends, and competitive landscape.
- Build brand awareness: Promote products and services effectively to local businesses and consumers.
- Provide localized customer support: Enhance customer satisfaction and build loyalty.
- Network with local partners: Identify potential collaborators, distributors, and suppliers.
- Ensure regulatory compliance: Stay compliant with local laws and regulations.
A representative office can be a strategic investment for foreign companies looking to expand their business in Belarus and capitalize on the country’s growing market.
What a foreign company can do via a representative office in Belarus
A representative office in Belarus allows foreign companies to establish a local presence without fully registering as a Belarusian entity. Through this office, companies can conduct market research, explore business opportunities, and promote their products or services. They can also liaise with potential partners, clients, and government bodies. However, representative offices cannot engage in commercial activities or generate revenue directly. Instead, they serve as a bridge between the foreign company and the Belarusian market, facilitating communication and gathering valuable insights to inform future business decisions. This setup is often used as a first step towards full market entry.
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Which organizations can register a foreign representative office in Belarus
What is the difference between an accredited representative office and a subsidiary in Belarus?
Taxation of a branch of a foreign company
Branch offices are subject to corporate income tax on their Belarusian-sourced income.
Licensing of a branch office of a foreign company
Branch offices generally do not require separate licensing, but may need permits or registrations depending on their activities.
Who can open a branch office in Belarus?
Foreign commercial companies and certain non-commercial organizations can establish branch offices.
Employing foreigners in a branch office
Foreign companies can employ foreign citizens in their branch offices, subject to obtaining necessary work permits and complying with labor regulations.
Opening Process
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Turnkey Solutions
We offer comprehensive services, handling all aspects of the process from start to finish. You can rely on our expertise to guide you through every step.
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Foreign Citizen Support
We are experienced in working with foreign citizens and understand the unique challenges they may face. Our team is equipped to provide tailored assistance and guidance.
FAQ
To open a representative office in Belarus, you’ll need to follow several key steps:
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documentation, including a power of attorney, company registration documents, and information about the appointed representative.
- Submit Application: Submit the application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Economy, depending on your company’s activities.
- Obtain Permit: Await the decision on your application. If approved, you’ll receive a permit to open a representative office.
- Register with Local Authorities: Register your representative office with the tax authorities, social security fund, and other relevant government bodies.
- Open a Bank Account: Establish a corporate bank account in Belarus.
The specific documents required may vary depending on your company’s type and activities. However, generally, you’ll need to submit:
- A power of attorney authorizing a representative to act on your company’s behalf.
- Copies of your company’s registration documents.
- Information about the appointed representative, including their passport and employment contract.
- A business plan outlining your proposed activities in Belarus.
Submit the documents to the appropriate government agency, which is typically the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Economy.
The processing time for a permit can vary. However, it generally takes several weeks to a few months. The specific timeline may depend on the complexity of your application and the workload of the government agency.
There are certain circumstances where a permit may be denied, such as:
- If your company has a history of violations of Belarusian laws or regulations.
- If your proposed activities conflict with Belarusian national interests or security.
- If the information provided in your application is incomplete or inaccurate.
Once you receive the permit, you should:
- Register your representative office with the tax authorities, social security fund, and other relevant government bodies.
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Hire local staff or appoint a local representative.
- Commence your operations in Belarus.
It’s possible to open a representative office on your own, but it’s often advisable to seek assistance from local experts or legal counsel. They can guide you through the process, ensure compliance with local regulations, and help you navigate any potential challenges.
Contact us
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LawyerLegal assistance is provided by advocate Anton Grinewich, Specialized Legal Bar No. 2 in Minsk.
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E-mail
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AddressOffice: 1 Krasnaya str., Minsk, Republic of Belarus Postal address: 1 Krasnaya str., Minsk, Republic of Belarus
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Working hoursMonday-Friday 9:00-19:00
