What is a Commercial Registration (CR)?
A Commercial Registration (CR) is the official document that proves your business legally exists in Saudi Arabia. Without it, you cannot legally open a bank account, sign contracts, hire employees, or invoice customers.
Types of Commercial Registrations
- Sole Proprietorship: One owner — simplest, fastest setup
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): 1-50 partners — most common for SMEs
- Joint Stock Company: For larger businesses with shareholders
- Branch CR: For opening branches under existing CR
Required Documents
- National ID copy (for Saudis) or Iqama (for residents)
- Business activity selection from approved list
- Trade name approval (must be unique)
- Lease contract for the business location
- Capital amount declaration
Fees Structure
Fees depend on activity and entity type:
- Issuance fee: 200 SAR for sole proprietorship, 800-1,200 SAR for LLC
- Chamber of Commerce subscription: 600-3,000 SAR annually
- Validity: 1-5 years (you choose at issuance)
Step-by-Step Online Application
- Login to mc.gov.sa with your Absher account
- Choose "Issue Commercial Registration"
- Select activity and entity type
- Submit trade name (system checks availability)
- Pay fees online via SADAD
- Receive CR digitally within minutes
Renewal Process
You must renew before expiry to avoid penalties (50 SAR/day delay fee). Renewal is automatic for 1-year CRs if conditions are met. Visit mc.gov.sa, login, and pay the renewal fee.
Common Activity Codes for Shops
- 4711 - Retail trade in non-specialized stores (general supermarket)
- 4751 - Retail of textiles
- 5610 - Restaurants and mobile food services
- 4711.001 - Grocery stores
What to Do After Getting Your CR
- Open a business bank account
- Register with ZATCA for tax purposes
- Apply for municipal license
- Set up your POS system (we recommend GIGAPOS for ZATCA-compliant invoicing)
- Register employees with GOSI and Qiwa