A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a unique number issued by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) that identifies every taxpayer in Bangladesh. Whether you are an individual, a business owner, or a foreign investor operating in Bangladesh, the first legal step toward tax compliance and financial transparency is to get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) certificate.
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In this guide, Dewey & LeBoeuf explains the complete process of obtaining your TIN certificate in Bangladesh — from eligibility and required documents to online registration and legal compliance — along with expert guidance to ensure a smooth experience.
What Is a TIN Certificate
A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a 12-digit number that serves as your permanent identity for tax purposes. It allows the government to track income, assess tax liability, and ensure that every taxpayer contributes legally.
The TIN certificate is issued by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) under the Income Tax Ordinance, 1984. Every citizen earning income above the taxable threshold and every business or company conducting activities in Bangladesh must obtain one.
Why You Need a TIN Certificate in Bangladesh
Getting a TIN is not just a legal formality — it is a gateway to many essential financial and professional benefits, such as:
- Filing income tax returns every year.
- Opening or maintaining a bank account for business.
- Registering a company, partnership, or trade license.
- Buying or selling property.
- Registering vehicles or obtaining import/export licenses.
- Applying for government tenders or projects.
- Visa and work permit applications for business professionals.
Without a valid TIN, many transactions are either restricted or subject to higher tax deductions at source.
Who Needs a TIN Certificate
According to NBR regulations, the following individuals and entities must obtain a TIN certificate in Bangladesh:
- Any person or organization earning taxable income in Bangladesh.
- Company directors and business partners.
- Professionals such as lawyers, consultants, engineers, doctors, and freelancers earning locally or internationally.
- Landlords receiving rental income.
- Individuals purchasing cars, land, or apartments.
- Importers and exporters.
- Contractors, suppliers, and government service providers.
- Foreign investors or representatives managing local business operations.
If you are uncertain whether you need a TIN, a professional tax consultant or legal advisor can assess your case and help you comply before penalties apply.
Documents Required for TIN Registration
To apply for a TIN certificate in Bangladesh, you will need:
- National ID (NID) card or passport copy.
- Recent passport-size photograph (for individuals).
- Valid mobile number and email address.
- Proof of address (utility bill, rental agreement, etc.).
- Trade license or company incorporation certificate (for businesses).
- Tax circle number or tax zone (if known).
For companies, additional documents may include:
- Memorandum and Articles of Association.
- Incorporation Certificate from RJSC.
- Director list and authorized person’s NID.
All information must be accurate, as the NBR system verifies data against the national database.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Get a TIN Certificate Online in Bangladesh
The NBR has simplified TIN registration through an online portal. Here is the complete process explained in plain language.
1. Visit the Official NBR e-TIN Portal
Go to the official National Board of Revenue website (www.incometax.gov.bd or www.etaxnbr.gov.bd). Choose the “Register” or “Get Your e-TIN” option.
2. Create an Account
You will be asked to create a user account using your name, national ID, date of birth, email, and phone number. After verification, you will receive a login ID and password.
3. Fill in the Online Application
Log in to your account and complete the e-TIN application form. You will need to provide:
- Personal or company information.
- Address details.
- Type of income (salary, business, profession, etc.).
- Business ownership or director information (if applicable).
Review all details carefully before submission.
4. Upload Required Documents
Attach your scanned NID, trade license, and other relevant documents. Make sure they are clear and match the details entered.
5. Submit and Generate Your TIN Certificate
After submission, your TIN certificate will be generated automatically if no manual verification is required. You can download and print your TIN certificate directly from the portal.
The entire process usually takes less than 15 minutes if all documents are ready and accurate.
Offline (Manual) TIN Registration Process
For individuals or organizations unable to complete the process online, manual registration is still available.
You can visit your nearest tax circle office under the National Board of Revenue with all documents. The tax officer will verify your identity and submit the registration on your behalf.
Once approved, you will receive a printed TIN certificate with your 12-digit number.
However, online registration is now preferred as it’s faster, easier, and linked automatically with NBR’s digital system.
How Long It Takes to Get a TIN Certificate
If applied online, your TIN certificate can be issued instantly after successful submission.
In case of manual verification or incomplete data, it may take 2–5 working days. For business entities, verification might take slightly longer depending on document review.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During TIN Registration
- Entering mismatched data from your NID and application.
- Using invalid or inactive mobile/email information.
- Submitting unclear or incomplete documents.
- Not selecting the correct tax circle or zone.
- Forgetting to download and store your TIN certificate after approval.
If you face any confusion, a legal advisor can handle the process on your behalf to prevent future disputes or tax complications.
Updating or Recovering Your Lost TIN Certificate
If you lose your TIN certificate or change your address, you can easily recover or update it by logging into your NBR account.
For manual applicants, visit your local tax office and request a certified copy of your TIN certificate. You may need to provide your NID and previous TIN details for verification.
Penalties for Not Having a TIN Certificate
Failing to obtain a TIN when required can lead to several issues:
- Higher tax deductions at source (TDS).
- Ineligibility for financial or property transactions.
- Fines or penalties from the NBR.
- Rejection of government tenders or contracts.
Obtaining your TIN early helps you stay compliant and avoid legal complications.
Importance of Professional Assistance
Although the process appears simple, many people make mistakes during registration or later while filing tax returns. Dewey & LeBoeuf provides comprehensive legal and tax advisory services for individuals, entrepreneurs, and foreign investors operating in Bangladesh.
Our experienced team can:
- Verify eligibility and prepare your documents.
- Register your e-TIN accurately under the correct tax circle.
- Help you maintain compliance for yearly tax filing.
- Assist in business TIN registration for companies and foreign branches.
- Provide end-to-end tax and legal support in Bangladesh.
With proper legal assistance, you not only save time but also ensure full compliance with Bangladeshi tax laws.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between TIN and e-TIN?
Both refer to the same thing. e-TIN simply means the TIN certificate is issued electronically through NBR’s online system.
Is TIN registration mandatory for all citizens?
Not for everyone. It is mandatory for those earning taxable income or involved in business, property, or professional services.
How much does it cost to get a TIN certificate?
The government does not charge any fee for TIN registration. However, professional service providers may charge a small fee for preparing documents and handling the application.
Can a foreigner get a TIN certificate in Bangladesh?
Yes, foreign investors, directors, and expatriates earning in Bangladesh can obtain a TIN. They need a valid passport, visa, and local business registration documents.
How can I verify if my TIN is active?
You can verify your TIN certificate on the official NBR website by entering your TIN number in the verification section.
Why Choose Dewey & LeBoeuf for Your TIN and Tax Matters
As a global law firm with deep regional expertise, Dewey & LeBoeuf helps individuals and organizations in Bangladesh and abroad handle their legal and tax compliance seamlessly.
We assist clients in getting a Tax Identification Number (TIN) certificate, filing returns, structuring companies, and managing cross-border tax issues. Whether you are a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, our legal experts ensure your compliance is smooth, fast, and fully secure.
Contact our team today to get your TIN certificate quickly and legally — and receive expert advice on all tax and regulatory matters in Bangladesh.
E-mail: info@deweyleboeuf.com
Phone: +971 58 690 9684
Address: 26B Street, Mirdif, Dubai, UAE