How to Set Up a Company in Syria & Hire Your First Team, 2026 Guide

Syria in 2026 is one of the most talked-about frontier markets in the region. With sanctions lifted, the Syrian Investment Authority established as a one-stop shop, and thousands of new companies registering, foreign firms are moving to establish a presence. But setting up a company is only half the challenge, once the entity is registered, you need a team on the ground. This guide covers both.

The 2026 Landscape

The regulatory environment has been substantially reformed. Investment Law No. 18 of 2021, amended by Presidential Decree No. 114 of 2025, created the Syrian Investment Authority (SIA) as a centralized one-stop shop for investors. The Central Bank of Syria has restored SWIFT access and international card networks are being authorized. Thousands of companies registered in 2025, including a growing number of foreign branches. The window for early movers is open now.

Step 1: Choose Your Entity Structure

LLC, most common, offers liability protection and, in most sectors, permits full foreign ownership without a local partner. Foreign Branch or Representative Office, operate without forming a new entity. Joint Stock Company, for larger enterprises. This is a decision to make with a licensed Syrian lawyer.

Step 2: Register the Entity

The process involves name reservation, notarizing articles of association, depositing capital, and registering with the Commercial Registry and Chamber of Commerce. Foreign investors need parent-company documents, often with sworn translation and apostille. LLC formation is commonly cited at 15–21 days when the file is correct. Note: Jeser is a recruitment agency, not a law firm, for legal steps, work with a licensed Syrian lawyer. Where we add value is building your team.

Step 3: Plan Your Hiring Before You Launch

An entity with no people is just paperwork. Plan first hires before the entity is registered. Decide which roles you need first (usually a country/operations manager, finance lead, and core team), whether to hire locally or relocate returnees, and what you can realistically pay.

Step 4: Build Your First Team

Hiring in Syria is difficult without local presence, the best candidates are reached through local networks, universities, and returnee circles, not cold job boards. This is the gap Jeser bridges: we understand the roles and costs, screen with AI plus human vetting and present only the top 3, verify every credential, back placements with a written 60-day guarantee, and advise on labour-law compliance.

FAQ

Do I need a local partner?

In most sectors, foreign investors can own 100% of an LLC.

How long does the whole process take?

Entity 15–21 days; first team a further 2–4 weeks; plan in parallel to move fastest.

Can Jeser help before our entity is registered?

Yes, we often begin the search while registration is finalized.

What sectors are hiring most?

Engineering and construction, technology, finance, and sales.

Get Started

If your company is setting up in Syria, line up your hiring partner before you need them. Contact Jeser: info@jeserhr.com

Jeser Human Capital, We Bridge Distances. We Build Teams.