The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) is a globally recognised onshore platform for financial and professional services firms, with its own legal, regulatory and tax framework based on English common law. It allows up to 100% foreign ownership and suits companies that want international best practice, an independent court and fast incorporation.
This guide covers who the QFC is for, the fees involved, the registration steps and the documents you need.
For hands-on support with registration, documents and approvals, see our company formation services in Qatar.
Key Takeaways
- Up to 100% foreign ownership and 100% repatriation of profits.
- 10% corporate tax on locally sourced profits.
- QAR 1,800 application and QAR 1,800 annual licence.
- Platinum on-boarding can incorporate a company in as little as one hour after the final application.
- Independent court, regulatory tribunal and dispute resolution centre under English common law.
- Core sectors: financial services, sports, and digital and media.
What is the QFC?
The QFC provides a distinct legal, regulatory, tax and business framework and supports Qatar National Vision 2030 by attracting domestic and international companies. Both regulated and non-regulated entities can establish or expand from within the QFC, with services aligned to international best practice.
What the QFC offers
- Up to 100% foreign ownership
- 100% repatriation of profits
- A competitive tax system
- An independent court, regulatory tribunal and dispute resolution centre
- A legal, judicial and regulatory framework based on English common law and international best practice
- An administrative employment dispute resolution centre accredited by the International Labour Organization (ILO)
- The ability to trade in any currency
Regulated and non-regulated activities
Companies in the QFC can carry out a range of regulated and non-regulated activities.
Regulated activities
- Banking and insurance or reinsurance
- Alternative finance
- Asset management
- Islamic finance
- Representative office
- Fund administration, fund advisory and fiduciary businesses
Non-regulated activities
- Corporate solutions
- HNI and family offices
- Professional and business services
- Companies limited by guarantee
Core focus sectors are financial services, sports, and digital and media.
Platinum on-boarding: incorporation in one hour
The QFC offers a platinum on-boarding service for entities that want speed and a premium experience. This is a paid service that enables incorporation in as little as one hour upon submission of the final online application, with the computer card and tax card issued within the same hour for Qatar residents.
QFC registration steps
- Expression of interest. Register interest through the QFC Start Your Setup form or contact the QFC Business Development Team. The team confirms whether your operations align with QFC Permitted Activities and add strategic value; if approved, the Financial Sector Office guides you through any regulatory authorisation.
- Complete the single online application. You receive access to the QFC secure portal to complete the application for registration and licence. QFC reviews your application and supporting documents, and a dedicated representative coordinates follow-ups. All applicants must provide beneficial ownership information.
- Certificate and scope of licence issued. Once approved, you receive the licensing and registration certificates, the scope of licence and the licensing letter.
- Post-registration. Complete the checklist below to become operational.
After registration: your checklist
- Access the QFC E-service portal within the first month.
- Set up a bank account and apply for a computer card to start the immigration process.
- Establish your office in a designated QFC building.
- Display a staff privacy notice to comply with data protection regulations.
- Complete the Conduct of Business Policies and Procedures Checklist.
- Register online for tax and obtain your tax card.
- Submit the Senior Executive Function (SEF) full residency and Professional Indemnity Insurance within three months.
- Provide a copy of the Registered Office Agreement.
- Submit your Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) annual report on the registration anniversary.
- File your annual tax return and financial statement within six months after the accounting period.
Documents required
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Completed online application form
- Signed declaration and consent form
- Copy of the incorporator’s current certificate of incorporation or registration in its place of origin
- Copy of the constitutional document of the incorporator, with a certified English translation if the document is not in English
- A copy of the resolution of the board of directors
Branch
- Signed declaration and consent form
- Documentary evidence of financial strength, including the last two years of audited financial statements of the parent entity
- Certified copy of the parent company’s current certificate of incorporation or registration
- Certified copy of the parent company’s constitutional document, with a certified English translation if not in English
- Certified copy of the resolution of the members of the parent company
QFC fees
| Item | QFC |
|---|---|
| Application | QAR 1,800 |
| License (annual) | QAR 1,800 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own 100% of a QFC company?
Yes. The QFC allows up to 100% foreign ownership and 100% repatriation of profits.
What is the corporate tax rate in the QFC?
10% on locally sourced profits. Unregulated QFC limited liability companies with at least 90% Qatari ownership benefit from a 0% concessionary corporate income tax rate.
How fast can I incorporate in the QFC?
Standard timelines depend on the activity and the completeness of the file. The platinum on-boarding service can incorporate a company in as little as one hour after the final application is submitted.
Do I need an office?
Yes. QFC entities establish an office in a designated QFC building. The QFC Tech Circle offers flexible co-working space for early-stage digital and fintech companies.
Is the QFC the same as a free zone?
No. The QFC is an onshore financial centre with its own legal, judicial and regulatory framework, and it is not restricted to a single geographical area.
Official sources
Send company documents only through our official channels, never in public comments or social DMs. QFC fees and activity lists are reviewed periodically, so before you file, check your structure and category with our team.
To protect your business, share passports, certificates and company records only through our official channels, never in public comments or direct messages. Fees, deadlines and authority requirements in Qatar can change, so confirm your specific case with our team before you sign or release payment.
WRITTEN BY
Unais Naranath
Manager at Meem Business Services
Unais is a specialist in government relations with a background shaped by key roles in Qatar’s medical and public sectors. His experience includes 2 years with Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Center (MOPH) and 1 year as a Qatar Public Relations Officer.
