It is that time of the year again. The financial year has ended, and every shop owner in Dhaka—from the tea stall in Mirpur to the software firm in Gulshan—is dreading one thing: The City Corporation Office.

For decades, renewing a Trade License in Dhaka meant wasting 3 working days, standing in sweaty lines at the Nagar Bhaban, and inevitably paying "speed money" (bribes) to a middleman just to get a signature.

Good news: In 2026, you can technically stop this. Both Dhaka North (DNCC) and South (DSCC) have fully functional E-Trade License portals.

This guide will show you the actual government fees (so you don't get scammed) and how to renew online. If the system fails you—which happens—we will show you who to hire to fix it without you leaving your office.

The Real Cost: Trade License Renewal Fees 2026 (Official Chart)

Don't let a "Dalal" tell you it costs 20,000 BDT to renew a small shop license. Here is the breakdown of the Official Government Fees.

Note: These are base fees. You must add 15% VAT, Signboard Tax, and Source Tax (AIT) to get the final total.

⚠️ The "Hidden" Costs for Trade License Renewal

When you go to the bank, the bill will look higher than the table above. Why?

1. AIT (Source Tax): Since 2023, the government collects a flat BDT 3,000 as Source Tax during renewal for most commercial licenses.

2. Signboard Tax: Usually BDT 80 per sq. ft. of your shop's signboard.

3. VAT: Flat 15% on the license fee.

Phase 1: The Online Renewal Process (DIY)

If your paperwork is clean (same address, paid holding tax), you can try the DIY route.

For Dhaka North (DNCC):

1. Go to the DNCC e-Revenue Portal.

2. Login with your mobile number.

3. Click "Renewal Application" and enter your previous License Number.

4. The system will auto-calculate your fees (Fee + VAT + Tax).

5. Pay Online: Use bKash, Nagad, or Bank Card.

6. Download: Get your Digital Trade License (E-License) instantly with a QR code.

For Dhaka South (DSCC):

1. Visit the DSCC E-Trade License System.

2. The process is similar, but DSCC often requires you to upload your up-to-date Holding Tax receipt before letting you pay.

Phase 2: When to Stop & Hire an Expert

The online system sounds perfect, but it often breaks if:

• "Holding Tax" Mismatch: If your landlord hasn't paid the building tax, your license renewal gets blocked.

• Address Change: You moved offices but didn't update the license book? You can't renew online.

• Business Type Change: Switching from "General Supplier" to "Importer"? You need a manual amendment.

In these cases, going to the City Corporation yourself means facing the "Syndicate." They will make you run from room to room until you pay a bribe.

The Solution: Hire a runner/consultant on Getlancers. They act as your authorized representative.

Required Documents for Trade License Renewal 2026

Whether you do it online or hire a Getlancer, have these scans ready:

1. Previous Trade License Book (The Blue/Green book).

2. Holding Tax Payment Receipt (Current FY). This is the most common reason for rejection.

3. Rent Receipt/Deed (If you are a tenant).

4. AIN/TIN Certificate (Proof of Tax Return submission).

5. DCCI/Association Membership (Only for Importers/Exporters).

Final Verdict

The E-Trade License system has reduced corruption, but it hasn't eliminated it—especially for older businesses with messy records.

If your renewal is straightforward, do it online today and pay zero bribes.

If your file is complicated (Address change, arrears, tax issues), spend 1,000-2,000 BDT on a professional to handle it. It is cheaper than the bribe you'd pay at the counter.

👉 Hire a Verified Trade License Expert on Getlancers