At a glance
Registering a company creates an independent legal entity that can sign contracts, hold bank accounts and bid for tenders in its own name. Choosing the right company type and getting the articles of association, shareholding and management structure right at this stage prevents future disputes between partners. Karsan handles every step, from start to the Official Gazette notice.
Which company type suits your business?
Iran's Commercial Code provides for several company types, but most businesses choose between two:
The choice depends on the number of partners, fundraising plans, how shares will be transferred and the type of activity, and is best reviewed with a legal adviser before registering.
- Limited liability company: simpler to form with at least two partners; transferring a partner's share requires an official deed and the partners' consent.
- Private joint-stock company: at least three shareholders and a board of directors; shares are easier to transfer, making it better suited to investors and tenders.
- Non-commercial institute: for cultural, educational, research and service activities that are not aimed at distributing commercial profit.
Documents required to register a company
The exact list depends on the company type, but typically includes:
- Copies of national ID cards and birth certificates of all partners, shareholders and directors (passports for foreign shareholders)
- Several proposed company names in order of preference
- A precise description of the business activity and any required licence
- The company's address and postal code
- Share capital and how shares are allocated
- Articles of association, partnership deed or declaration and incorporation minutes (prepared by Karsan)
Company amendments and dissolution
After incorporation, every change — new directors and signatories, capital increases or reductions, share transfers, a new address, name or business activity — must be recorded in the company registration system with correctly drafted minutes and published. Incomplete minutes are one of the most common reasons applications are rejected.
Dissolving and liquidating a company also follows set stages; if they are not completed properly, directors and partners remain liable. Karsan drafts the minutes, follows up registration and notices, and as your outsourced legal department reminds you of director renewals and annual meetings.
Company registration with Karsan, step by step
- 1
Advice and choice of company type
Reviewing partners, capital and goals and recommending the best structure.
- 2
Name selection and approval
Submitting proposed names and following up their approval.
- 3
Articles and minutes
Drafting incorporation documents to match the shareholding and directors' powers.
- 4
Filing and follow-up
Filing, resolving deficiencies, and obtaining the national ID and Official Gazette notice.
- 5
After incorporation
Guidance on the economic code, statutory books and the commercial card.
Frequently asked questions
With complete documents and an approved name, registration usually takes a few weeks. The exact time depends on the company type, the activity and whether a licence is required.
Yes. Registration is carried out through the company registration system, and Karsan handles every step without you needing to attend; you only need to coordinate electronic signatures.
It covers government and publication fees plus our service fee, and depends on the company type and capital. You receive a complete, transparent quote before we start.
Minutes of the general meeting or board appropriate to the change, documents of any new persons and, in some cases, a licence or approval. Karsan drafts minutes that comply with your articles and the law so the application is not rejected.