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Mandatory $100k Medical Insurance for Foreign Workers in Brunei: A Guide for Employers With Brunei Darussalam introducing a new mandatory medical insurance policy for foreign workers, businesses must act quickly to ensure compliance. The policy, discussed in depth on the Biz Brunei Takeaways podcast, marks a significant shift from the previous $10,000 coverage limit to a more robust **$100,000 minimum**. Here is everything you need to know to prepare your business for January 1, 2026. Why the Change? The Ministry of Health and the Department of Labour introduced this change to address rising healthcare costs. The previous $10,000 coverage was often insufficient for serious surgeries or long-term hospitalization, leaving employers with massive out-of-pocket expenses and public hospitals with unpaid debts. The new $100,000 limit provides a financial safety net for both the worker and the employer. ⚡ Quick Q&A: Your Top Questions Answered Q: What is the new minimum coverage? A: For most workers, it is now $100,000. Q: When is the deadline for the private sector? A: January 1, 2026. (Domestic workers and PRs started July 1, 2025). Q: Who pays for the insurance? A: The Employer is legally responsible. Q: Can I deduct the premium from my worker’s salary? A: No. It is illegal to deduct these premiums from a worker’s wages. Q: Does every pass need $100k? A: No. Dependent Passes require $10,000 and Student Passes require $5,000. Q: Does it cover clinic visits? A: No, the mandate only requires coverage for hospitalization and surgery (Inpatient). Q: Can I use foreign insurance? A: Only if it specifically mentions “Brunei Darussalam” and meets the $100,000 limit. Q: What if a worker’s policy is used up? A: The employer must “top up” the insurance back to $100,000 to remain compliant. Key Benefits of the New Policy Direct Billing: Most local insurance providers now offer direct billing with hospitals, meaning employers don’t have to pay huge cash sums upfront. Financial Protection: A single major operation can easily exceed $30,000. This insurance protects your business from sudden, large medical bills. Welfare Compliance: Ensuring your staff is covered is not just a legal requirement; it’s a key part of maintaining a healthy and productive workforce. Compliance and Penalties Non-compliance is serious. If you fail to provide the required insurance or attempt to deduct the cost from your worker’s salary, you could face: Fines of up to $3,000. Imprisonment for up to one year. A ban on hiring any future foreign workers.  Written by: Faisal KvCorporate Compliance Specialist | Mercium Sdn Bhd, Brunei Darussalam 📞 Need to set up your company in Brunei? The Mercium team is here to help you every step of the way—from company incorporation to full compliance. We offer reliable, hassle-free solutions tailored to businesses in Brunei. Contact us at : ‪+673 8243820‬ | ‪+673 8306820‬ 6738243820 2701277 Email: info@merciumbn.com Visit Our Website: www.merciumbn.com Follow us on IG: mercium.corporate Visit us: No. 7, First Floor, Bng Hj Abd Rahman Spg 7, Kg Menglait, Jln Gadong, Brunei Darussalam Let’s Work Together to Build Your Success CONTACT US Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Linkedin

Best Company Incorporation Services in Brunei : A Quick Guide Looking to start a business in Brunei Darussalam?  Registering a company in Brunei is an easy and organized process, overseen by the Registrar of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN) within the Ministry of Finance and Economy. Whether you are establishing a business in Brunei as a Private Limited Company (Sdn Bhd), Foreign Branch, or other business type, we can walk you through each step of the company incorporation process.  Once you have finished registering your business, you will need to meet important post-incorporation obligations including getting a Brunei business license, registering with TAP and SCP for workers’ contributions, opening a company bank account, and registering for corporate tax. Some businesses might also need a foreign worker license or business sector approvals. Foreigners are free to invest, and 100% foreign ownership is permissible in most business ventures, although a local director can be mandated depending on the industry.  At Mercium Sdn Bhd, we offer Brunei incorporation services, and we provide complete assistance from documentation to compliance. Let us have you contact us today for a complimentary business registration checklist or a tailored quotation for your company incorporation in Brunei. Registering a company in Brunei Darussalam is a simple procedure through the Registrar of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN) within the Ministry of Finance and Economy. Below is a step-by-step procedure to assist you in getting an overview of the process: Types of Companies You Can Register Private Company Limited by Shares (Sendirian Berhad – Sdn Bhd) – Most common. Public Company Limited by Shares Company Limited by Guarantee Foreign Branch Company Post-Incorporation Requirements Company Stamp and Letterhead Register with TAP & SCP for employee contributions (if hiring staff) Apply for Business Licenses (if required for your business sector) Open a Company Bank Account Register for Tax with the Revenue Division Apply for Foreign Worker License, if employing foreigners Who Can Be a Director or Shareholder? At least one local director is usually required (for some sectors). Foreigners can own 100% shares, depending on the business activity.  Written by: Faisal KvCorporate Compliance Specialist | Mercium Sdn Bhd, Brunei Darussalam 📞 Need to set up your company in Brunei?The Mercium team is here to help you every step of the way  from company incorporation to full compliance. We offer reliable, hassle-free solutions tailored to businesses in Brunei. Contact us today: +673 8243820 | +673 8306820 2701277 Email: info@merciumbn.com Website: www.merciumbn.com Instagram: mercium.corporate Visit us: G4 First Floor, Seaview Building, Simpang 6, Kg Pengkalan Gadong, Negara Brunei Darussalam Let’s Work Together to Build Your Success CONTACT US Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Linkedin

Comprehensive Guide to Annual Return Submission in Brunei If you’ve registered a company in Brunei (Sdn Bhd), filing your Annual Return is not just a formality—it’s a legal requirement under the Companies Act (Cap 39). Missing this step could lead to penalties, delays in renewals, or even the striking off of your company. Whether you’re a new business owner or simply want to make sure you’re compliant, here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand what an annual return is and how to stay on top of it. 📌 What Is an Annual Return? An Annual Return is a document that provides updated information about your company, such as: Company name and registration number Principal business activities Company address Directors and shareholders Share structure Date of AGM (if applicable) 👉 It is not the same as your tax return. The annual return is filed with the Registrar of Companies and Business Names (ROCBN), not the Revenue Division. 📅 When Must It Be Filed? You must file the annual return: Once every year Within 30 days of your company’s anniversary date of incorporation ⏰ Missing the deadline may result in late fees or the company being marked as non-compliant. 🧾 Why Is Filing Important? Filing your annual return: Keeps your company legally active and in good standing Ensures your company details are up-to-date with ROCBN Is often required for banking, licensing, or tender applications Avoids penalties or possible deregistration ✅ What You Need to Prepare Latest company details (directors, shareholders, etc.) Updated registered office address (if changed) Details of shareholding and issued capital Confirmation of whether AGM was held or exempted 👨‍💼 Who Can File It? The filing can be done by: Company secretary Director (if the company does not have a secretary) Or your appointed business consultant Many business owners choose to engage a corporate service provider to ensure timely and accurate submissions.  Pro Tip: Always check your incorporation date and set a yearly reminder to avoid missing the 30-day deadline. Early filing helps with smoother renewals and keeps your company records compliant. Need Help Filing Your Annual Return? Our team can assist with: Preparing and submitting your Annual Return Updating company records Ensuring compliance with ROCBN regulations Contact us today for reliable support in managing your company obligations. ✍️ Written by: Faisal KvCorporate Compliance Specialist | Mercium Sdn Bhd, Brunei Darussalam For more information: Contact us at : +673 8243820 | +673 8306820 6738243820 2701277 Email: info@merciumbn.com Visit Our Website: www.merciumbn.com Follow us on IG: mercium.corporate Visit us: No. 7, First Floor, Bng Hj Abd Rahman Spg 7, Kg Menglait, Jln Gadong, Brunei Darussalam Let’s Work Together to Build Your Success CONTACT US Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Linkedin

Beauty and Health Businesses in Brunei: EKK Licensing, Compliance, and Beyond Brunei Darussalam’s beauty and health industry is governed by specific regulations to ensure quality, safety, and professionalism. This post will guide you through the EKK (Establismen Kecantikan dan Kesihatan) licensing requirements and also provide a broader look at other business regulations in Brunei. EKK Licensing and Compliance The Beauty and Health Establishments Order, 2016, outlines the rules for operating beauty and health establishments (EKK) in Brunei. A valid EKK license is required to offer services such as: Aerobics   Aromatherapy   Barber services   Slimming treatments   Cosmetics services   Facial and body treatments   Gymnasium facilities   Hair salons   Manicure and pedicure services   Massage services   Reflexology   Spas (including hot or cold pools)  Key EKK Regulations: Licensing: EKK licenses are valid for three (3) years and must be renewed.   License holders must notify authorities of changes in license details.   Licenses are not transferable.   Business Hours: Businesses must close on Fridays from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Employee Rules: Employers must provide employee details to authorities.   Employees must undergo medical exams every two (2) years.   Local employees must be at least 20 years old; foreign employees 25-55 years old.   Employees must be able to communicate in Malay or English.   Employees must dress modestly and wear name tags. Operational Requirements: Establishments must be clean, safe, and well-lit.   Fire safety equipment must be provided.   Separate changing areas for male and female customers must be available. Prohibited Activities: EKKs cannot allow entry to individuals with infectious diseases.   EKKs cannot employ individuals with infectious diseases or those considered to be of “bad character”.   Inappropriate dress or behavior is prohibited.   Gender-specific treatment rules generally apply (male staff for male customers, etc.).   Animals are not allowed.   Obscene displays are prohibited.   Specific Massage Rules: These include gender-specific services, designated locations, and customer record-keeping.          Other Business Regulations in Brunei In addition to EKK-specific rules, businesses in Brunei must generally comply with the following: Business Registration: Businesses must register with the appropriate authorities .   Licensing and Permits: Businesses may need licenses/permits related to land use, environment, or specific industries .   Employment Regulations: These cover employment contracts, minimum wage, working hours, benefits, and workplace safety .   Financial Regulations: Businesses must comply with accounting standards and tax obligations .   Import/Export Regulations: Businesses involved in trade must follow customs and trade laws .   Consumer Protection: Laws protect consumers from unfair practices related to advertising, product safety, and contracts . For more information: Contact us at : +673 8243820 | +673 8306820 6738243820 2701277 Email: info@merciumbn.com Visit Our Website: www.merciumbn.com Follow us on IG:   mercium.corporate Visit us: No. 7, First Floor, Bng Hj Abd Rahman Spg 7, Kg Menglait, Jln Gadong, Brunei Darussalam ✍️ Written by: Faisal KvCorporate Compliance Specialist | Mercium Sdn Bhd, Brunei Darussalam Let’s Work Together to Build Your Success CONTACT US Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Linkedin