Best New Business Formation Lawyers in Zarqa

1. About New Business Formation Law in Zarqa, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

New business formation in Zarqa is governed by national statutes and regulatory frameworks applied across Jordan. The process typically involves name reservation, incorporation, and registration with government authorities, followed by licensing from local municipalities where the business will operate. Zarqa, as an industrial and commercial hub, often adds sector specific requirements for manufacturing, trading, or services businesses.

Key steps include choosing a legal form, drafting articles of association or corporate bylaws, and submitting documents for formal registration. Recent reforms have focused on digitizing the registration process and harmonizing procedures across Jordan, which affect Zarqa-based startups just as they do in Amman and other governorates. Working with a qualified solicitor or corporate attorney helps ensure compliance with both national and local rules.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Forming an LLC with foreign ownership - You plan to bring in a foreign investor and a Jordanian partner. A lawyer can structure ownership, draft the articles of association, and ensure compliance with shareholding and governance rules.
• Name reservation and company registration - You must reserve a unique business name and then file for incorporation. An attorney helps verify name availability and prepares required documents for the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply and the Companies Control Department.
• Establishing a business in a Zarqa industrial zone - Industrial zones impose additional permits and environmental or safety requirements. A legal counsel coordinates with regulators and helps obtain the necessary licenses.
• Drafting and updating articles of association - When changes occur in ownership, management, or capital, you need precise amendments. A solicitor drafts and files these amendments to avoid disputes.
• Restructuring, mergers or capital changes - If you merge with another firm or alter share capital, you must follow formal procedures and file updated documents with the MOIT.
• Dissolution or liquidation planning - When closing or restructuring a business, a lawyer guides you through winding-up procedures and creditor notices under Jordanian law.

3. Local Laws Overview

• Companies Law (No. 22 of 1997) and amendments - This is the core statute governing formation, governance, and dissolution of Jordanian companies, including LLCs and joint-stock entities. It also covers required filings and minimum governance standards.
• Investment Promotion Law - This law provides incentives, procedures, and regulatory frameworks for new investment projects, including those located in Zarqa's industrial zones. It helps determine eligibility for licenses and benefits.
• Regulations of the Companies Control Department under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply - These regulations implement the Companies Law, outline registration times, document requirements, and compliance obligations for corporate entities.

"Recent reforms aim to streamline company formation through online registration and digital signatures."

Source: Department of Statistics (dos.gov.jo)

"Jordan's ongoing business environment reforms include expanding e-registration and simplifying licensing across governorates like Zarqa."

Source: World Bank - Doing Business in Jordan

4. Frequently Asked Questions

5. Additional Resources

• Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply (MIT) - Central government authority overseeing commercial registration, licensing, and enforcement of corporate law. Official portal: mit.gov.jo
• Jordan Investment Commission (JIC) - Facilitates investment licensing, incentives, and investor support services for projects in Zarqa and nationwide. Official portal: jic.gov.jo
• Department of Statistics (DoS) - Provides official economic and business statistics used for market analysis and regulatory planning. Official portal: dos.gov.jo
• World Bank - Provides international benchmarks and analytical reports on Jordan's business environment and reforms. Official portal: doingbusiness.org

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your business model and select a legal form suitable for Zarqa operations. Aim to complete this within 1 week.
2. Gather essential documents for name reservation and incorporation, including partner details and proof of funds. Target a 1-2 week collection window.
3. Consult a local solicitor who specializes in corporate formation in Zarqa. Schedule an initial 60-minute consult within 1 week of document collection.
4. Engage the solicitor to prepare Articles of Association and required incorporation documents tailored to your business plan. Expect 1-2 weeks for drafting with client review.
5. Submit registrations with the MOIT and obtain name clearance and incorporation certificates. Allow 1-3 weeks for processing, depending on the volume of filings.
6. Apply for municipal licenses and sector specific permits from Zarqa Municipality or relevant authorities. Typical timeline is 2-6 weeks, factoring site inspections if needed.
7. Finalize tax and VAT registration requirements with the tax authorities and ensure accounting systems align with Jordanian standards. Consider a preliminary compliance review within 1-2 weeks after incorporation.