Trade Licence for Online Business in Bangladesh: Do You Need One and How to Get It
When an online seller in Bangladesh needs a trade licence, what DBID is, which documents you need, and why banks and payment gateways ask for them.
DokanKit Team
2 min read
বাংলায় পড়ুন
Many Facebook sellers start without any paperwork. That works for a while, but as the business grows you will need a business bank account, a payment gateway or a courier contract, and all of these ask for documents. Here is what you need and when.
Trade licence
A trade licence is issued by your local city corporation, municipality or union parishad. It shows that your business is registered to operate at an address.
You usually need:
- NID copy and passport-size photos
- Business address proof (rent agreement or utility bill; a home address is often accepted)
- Business name and type
- Fee, which varies by area and business type
Many city corporations now accept online applications. Rules change, so check your local office's current process. Bangla QR payment acceptance is also being linked to trade licences in 2026.
Digital Business Identity (DBID)
DBID is a registration from the Ministry of Commerce for businesses that sell online. According to the 2022 guideline, an online business that has a website or page can get a DBID even without a trade licence.
Why it matters:
- Banks increasingly ask for DBID to open an e-commerce business account
- It shows customers and partners that your business is registered
- Your website needs clear terms, return and privacy policies in Bangla for the application
Other registrations you may need later
| Document | When you need it |
|---|---|
| TIN / e-TIN | Business bank account, larger contracts |
| BIN (VAT registration) | Higher turnover or certain products |
| BSTI certificate | Some food and cosmetic products |
| Food licence (BFSA) | Selling packaged food at scale |
What to do first
- If you are just testing, start selling and keep records
- Once orders are steady, get a trade licence and DBID
- Open a separate business bank account
- Add terms, delivery and return policies to your website
Paperwork is not just a rule. It unlocks bank accounts, payment gateways and the trust of bigger buyers.
This is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures differ by area and change over time, so confirm with the issuing office.
A DokanKit store includes the policy pages DBID asks for. For the full launch checklist, read 10 steps to start selling online.
