How to set up a healthcare business in Bangladesh: 13 key certificates you need

Why invest in a healthcare business in Bangladesh?

Healthcare in Bangladesh has improved a lot over the years. Government programs, community clinics, and regular policy updates have made treatment easier to access for most people. Private hospitals such as Apollo, United, and Square have also grown with time, offering better facilities and helping many patients get reliable care. Key advantages include:

• Liberal policies: The 1986 industrial policy encourages private investment with no equity restrictions.
• Foreign investment perks: Full repatriation of profits under the Foreign Private Investment (Promotion & Protection) Act 1980.
• Market potential: A growing middle class and urbanization drive demand for specialized services like telemedicine, diagnostics, and wellness centers.
• Government support: Incentives via BIDA for economic zones and export-oriented units.

The 13 licenses and certificates essential for a healthcare business setup

Establishing a healthcare facility is more than just infrastructure. It demands 100% compliance with government rules and regulations. The following 13 certificates are necessary for starting any hospital, clinic, diagnostic center, or nursing home.

1. Trademark/brand name clearance certificate: It’s the first and most important step to obtain approval from the Office of the Register of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC). It creates a brand value.
2. Certificate of incorporation: After name clearance, draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association and other required forms, submit them to the RJSC office, and pay the required fees as per law. Thereafter, obtain the Certificate of Incorporation.
3. Trade license: A trade license is compulsory for any business in Bangladesh. It is issued by a local government authority like a city corporation, municipality, or union council.
4. Taxpayer identification number (TIN) certificate: Apply for the TIN certificates. It’s essential for formal business and tax compliance. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) issues TIN.
5. Bank account & capital encashment certificate: Open a temporary bank account in the company's name and, for foreign investments, remit the paid-up capital and obtain a Bank Encashment Certificate from the bank.
6. VAT registration certificate (BIN): Register with the NBR again for the Value Added Tax (VAT) certification to obtain a Business Identification Number (BIN certificate).
7. DGHS license: The primary requirement for a hospital, clinic, or diagnostic center is a license from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This is a mandatory license for health-related businesses.
8. Drug license: If the hospital or clinic is managing a pharmacy, selling medicines, or dealing with pharmaceutical goods. Then a drug license is required from the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA). This requires having a qualified pharmacist (Grade A, B, or C).
9. Environment clearance certificate (ECC): Obtain an ECC from the Department of Environment (DoE), especially if the project is a large industrial unit or a hospital with over 50 beds.
10. Fire license: A fire license and safety plan approval must be obtained from the Fire Service and Civil Defence authorities after submitting approved building designs and an NOC (no objection certificate).
11. Factory license: If the business involves manufacturing (e.g., pharmaceuticals or medical devices), a factory license and layout approval are needed from the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE).
12. Import registration certificate (IRC) / Export registration certificate (ERC): If you plan to import medical equipment, devices, or medicines, you must obtain an IRC (and an ERC for export) from the Office of the Chief Controller of Imports and Exports (CCI&E).
13. Membership certificate: Becoming a member of a local Chamber of Commerce and Industry or relevant trade association (e.g., a specific healthcare or pharmaceutical association) is often a necessary step for networking and advocacy.

Why should you follow 13 steps?

The 13 certificates and compliance steps are essential because healthcare is one of the most strictly regulated sectors in Bangladesh. Each license ensures a different layer of safety, legality & credibility.

• Without a DGHS license, your facility is not legally allowed to operate under healthcare rules and regulations.
• Compliance ensures safety and quality of care and builds trust among patients.
• Having a legally registered company with a trade license and tax compliance allows smoother business operations and avoids penalties.
• Proper setup, including infrastructure, equipment, and staff, is essential to meet regulatory inspections and audits.

Why choose us for a hospital setup in Bangladesh?

We are the best public health construction service provider in Bangladesh. Our architecture consultancy team knows the healthcare business and the rules and paperwork. We make the process easier by clearly guiding each step. Our team stays close to the requirements so you don’t miss anything important.

• We help you prepare all documents the right way. So approval becomes smoother.
• Our team knows the DGHS standards well and explains them in a simple, practical way.
• You get support in choosing the right structure, location, and compliance path for your setup.
• We coordinate with architects and safety experts when plans need adjustment.
• Updates and follow-ups are handled on time, so you don’t lose days waiting.
• You get clear communication at every stage, without confusing terms or long explanations.

Let’s start to begin a healthcare infrastructure

Starting a healthcare business requires careful navigation of legal, regulatory, tax, safety, and licensing requirements. By following the 13‑certificate framework and Barnomala Architects & Interior’s guideline, you can establish a legitimate, compliant, and sustainable healthcare institution.