بررسی روند ثبت شعبه شرکت‌های خارجی در ایران؛ فرصت فراموش‌شده برای حضور مستقیم برندهای بین‌المللی

Exclusive Report: Interview with Hamidreza Karami

Registering Branches of Foreign Companies in Iran: A Forgotten Opportunity for Direct Global Presence

While many international brands have chosen to operate through local importers or unofficial agents in Iran, there is still a fully legal and practical path for direct entry: registering an official branch of the foreign company inside the country.

In this exclusive interview, Hamidreza Karami, CEO of Armanisabt, Sadaqat Sabt, Arman Sabt, and founder of the legal-tech platform Vakil Komak, explains the process, challenges, and opportunities of branch registration in Iran—highlighting the recent successful registration of the FlyDubai branch as a case study.

What is branch registration and how is it different from representation?

Hamidreza Karami: A branch means the foreign parent company establishes a direct legal presence in Iran, retaining its original legal personality. Unlike a local representation where a third-party agent acts on behalf of the brand, a branch gives the foreign company full legal and operational control.

Have you had a successful case of branch registration in Iran recently?

Yes. The most notable case was the official registration of FlyDubai’s branch in Iran, fully managed by our team at Armanisabt. We handled all procedures: legal document preparation, translations, filing with the Registrar, tax code issuance, and legal setup—completely compliant and successful.

Is the issuance of a tracking code (foreign national ID) a real challenge?

In some cases, yes. Many foreign companies wish to appoint one of their current executives as the branch manager. However, obtaining a foreign national tracking code (KOD FARAGIR) can be a bureaucratic hurdle, especially for non-resident foreigners. We often provide workarounds such as appointing a temporary local representative until full compliance is reached.

Which companies should consider branch registration in Iran?

• Airlines, logistics and shipping firms
• Engineering and consulting companies
• Software, IT and fintech companies
• Manufacturers targeting exports from Iran
• Financial institutions and foreign banks (subject to specific licenses)

Why is branch registration a competitive advantage?

Brands relying on local dealers often lose control over pricing, service quality, and brand image. By registering a branch, foreign companies can:

• Directly sign contracts and engage clients
• Hire and manage their own staff
• Open legal bank accounts and comply with Iranian tax law
• Maintain a transparent and professional presence
• Retain IP and strategic control

What role does Armanisabt play in this process?

We manage the entire lifecycle of foreign branch registration, including:

• Legal document validation and certified translations
• Registration of branch with Iran’s Company Registrar
• Issuance of national ID, registration number, tax ID and tracking code
• Legal structuring of internal and external agreements
• Tax consultation and bookkeeping setup
• Ongoing legal, financial and compliance support

About Armanisabt

Armanisabt is a leading provider of company registration and legal-commercial services in Iran and the region. We specialize in helping international brands enter the Iranian market through official, compliant structures.

• Branch registration of foreign companies
• Trademark and representation services
• Company setup in Dubai, Turkey, Oman and UK
• Import/export licensing, tax code and bookkeeping
• International contracts and legal advisory
• Vakil Komak platform: AI-powered legal guidance in Iran

🌐
☎️ Phone: +98-21-88884117 – +98-21-88889346
📍 Branch 1: Tehran, Jordan Blvd., Mina Street, No. 9, Unit 2
📍 Branch 2: Tehran, Jordan, Pirouz Alley, No. 8/1, Unit 23

Armanisabt – Your Smart Legal Partner in Iran