Frequently Asked Questions

Future Gate provides comprehensive business services in Syria including company formation, HR outsourcing, work permit processing, employment outsourcing, document attestation and legalization, legal consultancy, and relocation services. We help businesses navigate Syrian regulations and capitalize on investment opportunities in the country's rebuilding economy.

Company formation in Syria typically takes 3-6 weeks depending on the type of entity, required licenses, and completeness of documentation. Registration is done through the Ministry of Economy and Trade and the Commercial Registry. Timelines may vary based on the business activity and government processing. Future Gate handles the entire process to minimize delays.

Yes, under Syria's Investment Law No. 18 of 2021, foreign investors can own 100% of a company in most sectors. The law was designed to encourage foreign investment and economic recovery. Certain strategic sectors may have restrictions or require partnerships. Future Gate advises on the best ownership structure for your business goals.

Syria allows several types of business entities: Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company, Limited Partnership, General Partnership, Sole Proprietorship, and Branch Offices of foreign companies. The LLC is the most common structure for foreign investors due to its flexibility and limited liability protection. Future Gate helps you choose and register the right entity type.

Syria issues work permits for foreign employees through the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour. Types include standard work permits for employed workers, investor permits for business owners, and temporary permits for project-based work. Employers must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Syrian national. Future Gate assists with the full work permit application and renewal process.

Employment outsourcing allows companies to hire workers through Future Gate as the employer of record. We handle all employment responsibilities including payroll, work permits, social security contributions, and compliance with Syrian labour law. This is ideal for companies entering the Syrian market without establishing a full legal entity, or for managing project-based workforces efficiently.

Standard working hours in Syria are 8 hours per day or 48 hours per week under Syrian Labour Law. Employees are entitled to one rest day per week, typically Friday. Overtime must be compensated at premium rates as specified in the employment contract or applicable regulations. Special provisions may apply during Ramadan.

Required documents typically include: passport copies of shareholders, proposed company name reservation, memorandum and articles of association, office lease agreement, bank capital deposit certificate, commercial registration application, tax registration, and chamber of commerce membership. Foreign documents must be attested and translated into Arabic. Future Gate manages the entire documentation and registration process.

Yes, Syria imposes corporate income tax on business profits. The standard corporate tax rate is 28% for most commercial and industrial activities. Rates may vary based on the type of business activity. Companies registered under Investment Law No. 18 of 2021 may qualify for tax exemptions and reduced rates for specified periods. Future Gate helps businesses understand and optimize their tax obligations.

Under Syrian Labour Law, employees are entitled to an end-of-service benefit calculated as one month's salary for each year of service. The benefit is based on the last drawn salary and is payable upon termination of employment regardless of the reason. This is a minimum entitlement and employment contracts may offer more generous terms.

Employers in Syria are required to register employees with the General Organization for Social Insurance, which provides basic healthcare coverage. Many employers also offer supplementary private health insurance as part of their benefits package. Future Gate helps companies set up compliant employee benefits programs that meet local requirements.

Syria's Investment Law No. 18 of 2021 offers significant incentives including: tax exemptions for up to 10 years depending on the sector and location, customs duty exemptions on imported equipment and raw materials, the right to repatriate profits and capital, land allocation for industrial projects, and streamlined licensing procedures. Priority sectors include industry, agriculture, tourism, technology, and renewable energy.

We handle the complete attestation process in Syria including Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation, embassy legalization, chamber of commerce attestation, notarization, and certified translation services. We manage attestation for educational certificates, commercial documents, personal documents, and powers of attorney required for business registration and legal proceedings.

Syria has a government-mandated minimum wage that is periodically revised. The minimum wage applies to all workers in both public and private sectors and is denominated in Syrian Pounds (SYP). Due to economic conditions, the government regularly adjusts the minimum wage. Employers must ensure compliance with current wage regulations. Future Gate provides up-to-date guidance on compensation requirements.

Yes, foreign companies can establish branch offices in Syria. A branch office operates as an extension of the parent company rather than a separate legal entity. Registration requires approval from the Ministry of Economy and Trade, along with authenticated company documents, a board resolution authorizing the branch, and appointment of a local representative. Future Gate manages the complete branch registration process.

Syrian Labour Law governs employment relationships and includes provisions for: maximum 8-hour workdays and 48-hour work weeks, mandatory social insurance contributions, end-of-service benefits (one month per year of service), annual leave entitlements, maternity leave, and workplace safety requirements. Employment contracts must be in writing and in Arabic. Future Gate ensures your employment practices comply with all Syrian labour regulations.

You can reach us by phone at (+963) 98199 2277, email at info@futuregate-sy.com, or visit our office at Al Hikma Building, Al Kindi Street, Damascus, Syria. You can also fill out the contact form on our website. We offer free initial consultations for all new clients looking to invest or expand into Syria.