Lebanon Corporate Tax Guide 2026
Lebanon applies a flat corporate income tax (CIT) rate of 17% on resident companies' profits. Banks are subject to an additional progressive contribution of up to 5%.
Corporate Income Tax Rate
17% flat on taxable profits — one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the Middle East. This applies to all legal forms including SARL and SAL.
Bank Surcharge
Banks and financial institutions pay an additional progressive contribution of up to 5% on profits, bringing the effective rate to approximately 22%. This was introduced as part of fiscal consolidation measures after the 2019 crisis.
Taxable Income
All income from business activities is taxable. Deductions include operating expenses, depreciation, interest expenses (subject to thin capitalization rules), and NSSF contributions.
Depreciation
- Buildings: 4% straight-line
- Equipment and machinery: 10–15% declining balance
- Vehicles: 20% declining balance
- Intangibles: Straight-line over useful life
Loss Carryforward
Tax losses can be carried forward for 3 years (limited compared to international norms). No carryback is permitted.
Tax Incentives
Investment incentives exist for certain sectors including agriculture, industry, and technology. IDAL (Investment Development Authority of Lebanon) offers packages with partial tax holidays and customs duty exemptions for qualifying projects.
Filing Deadline
Corporate tax returns must be filed by April 15 of the following year. Extensions are limited and subject to penalties.