Investing in Saudi Arabia: Transitioning to the Investment Registration Certificate

What is the Investment Registration Certificate? 

Saudi Arabia is continuing to modernize its foreign investment framework with the launch of the Investment Registration Certificate (IRC). Saudi Arabia introduced the IRC in February 2025, replacing the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) license. Though still overseen by the Ministry of Investment, the IRC now functions as the core authorization foreign companies need to establish and operate within Saudi Arabia. 

Designed to simplify registration, the IRC allows companies to consolidate multiple business activities under one certificate, eliminating the need for separate licenses and reducing administrative burdens. This streamlined approach lowers setup costs and accelerates market entry for international firms. 

As part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy, the IRC is helping expand access to foreign investment and facilitate operational readiness across industries. 

Preparing for Saudi Market Entry 

Successfully entering the Saudi market requires careful navigation of local regulations and procedures. Envoy Global provides strategic guidance and end-to-end support to help businesses stay compliant and launch with confidence. 

Anita Chalke, Senior Manager for Envoy Global in Saudi Arabia, provides an overview of the key steps involved and explains how Envoy Global simplifies and accelerates the process.

Acquisition of Investment Registration Certificate (IRC): Step 1  

The shift from the MISA License to the IRC enables foreign businesses to consolidate their authorized activities into a single document. Authorities issue the certificate in both Arabic and English to improve accessibility. This streamlined approach improves efficiency and lowers operational costs by eliminating translation requirements and making the process more accessible to foreign investors.  

Getting the certificate from MISA is a crucial first step. Foreign investors can complete the application process through the MISA portal. Applicants will need to gather essential documents like Articles of Association and shareholder agreements, as well as details about the company’s ownership, business type and capital structure.  

Typically completed within five to 10 working days, depending on the completeness of documentation and business type. 

Registration with Regulatory Authorities: Step 2

Once the foreign investor has obtained the IRC, the next step is registering with various Saudi authorities. The entities below perform the following responsibilities in the process: 

• Ministry of Commerce: Registration with the Ministry of Commerce is essential to obtain a Commercial Registration Number (CR), which is a unique identifier assigned to businesses. 
• Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA): For tax registration and VAT compliance. 
• General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI): For employee social security matters. 
• Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD): This is for hiring local and foreign staff. 
• Local Bank Account: Additionally, businesses should establish a Saudi bank account and secure a municipality license to operate smoothly within the country. 

The full registration process typically takes 30 to 60 working days, depending on the type of entity, business activities and licensing requirements. 

Saudization Requirements: Step 3

As an employer entering the Saudi Arabian market, adhering to the Saudization requirements is crucial.  

Saudization is a key workforce initiative aimed at increasing the participation of Saudi nationals across industries. By meeting Saudization targets, businesses strengthen relationships with government stakeholders and avoid potential penalties like fines or limits on government contract eligibility. 

These quotas vary based on industry, company size and the nature of business activity. Envoy Global works with companies to evaluate their Saudization obligations early on, helping them build better hiring strategies, stay aligned with local requirements and make the most of the incentives tied to the program. 

How Envoy Global Can Help  

Navigating Saudi Arabia’s evolving investment and immigration landscape requires informed strategy, local insight, and a trusted partner. Envoy Global brings together experienced immigration professionals and innovative technology to help organizations enter the market with confidence and stay compliant. 

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first.    

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs and help you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment.