Company Formation in Lebanon: SARL, SAL & Foreign Ownership
Setting up in Lebanon: 100% foreign-owned SARL, restricted sectors, SARL/SAL capital, the mandatory lawyer, and the post-2019 banking reality.
Lebanon's most common form is the SARL (limited liability), with a nominal LBP 5,000,000 capital; the SAL (joint stock) requires LBP 30,000,000. Foreigners can own 100% of a SARL; restricted sectors (exclusive commercial representation, banking/insurance, media) require majority-Lebanese ownership or boards. A retained lawyer is mandatory. Note: the currency collapse has made the LBP capital figures negligible, and new companies typically operate via 'fresh dollar' accounts.
FAQ
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Lebanon?
Yes for a SARL, holding and offshore company; restricted sectors (exclusive commercial representation, banking/insurance, media) require majority-Lebanese ownership or boards.
What is the minimum capital in Lebanon?
SARL: LBP 5,000,000; SAL/holding/offshore: LBP 30,000,000 — nominal figures not re-denominated after the currency collapse.
Is a retained lawyer mandatory in Lebanon?
Yes, a retained lawyer with an annual fee is mandatory for a SARL and an SAL under Bar rules.