The QFC operates a streamlined application process that allows you to make a single submission to obtain a licence from the QFC Authority and authorisation from the QFC Regulatory Authority. 

To start the process, please contact us at the Authorisation department to make an appointment for a pre-application meeting.

Phone: +974 4495 6888

email:  info@qfcra.com

Pre-Application Meetings  

Our application process starts with a meeting so we can address your questions about conducting business in or from the QFC. We will also want to assess if your business is a good fit with our objectives, and one that is aligned with our frameworks, rulebooks and the Strategic Plan for Financial Sector Regulation.

Preparing for a Pre-Application Meeting 

In advance of the initial meeting, we will ask that you prepare a brief high-level summary of your business proposition, including:

• your initial business proposition and strategy; 
• your business plan (the products you will be offering, how you will offer them and your target market); 
• sources of funding (how you propose to fund the business and whether you have any investors and/or funding in place); 
• details of proposed owners and controllers; and
• details of your governance and risk management framework together with proposed Controlled Functions (Governance and Control Rulebook) and staffing; and
• High-level financial accounts for three years.

There is no set template for providing this high-level summary. It can be presented as PowerPoint slides or in a document.

Applying for Authorisation to Conduct Regulated Activities

QFC Approach to the Authorisation of Branches