Can a Minor Run a Business Without a Legal Permit?

Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick

Question

I’m 15 and resell bikes for profit, but I learned I need a permit, which is only allowed at 21. If my father gets the permit, I’d still be the one working, which is also legally restricted. Is it halal for me to continue working under these conditions, or must I stop until I’m of age?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.

Firstly, may Allah bless you for your integrity, honesty, and truthfulness. It is inspiring for a 15-year-old young man to ask a question that shows his deep concern to ensure every aspect of his life pleases his Rabb. May Allah continue to bless you and grant you the best of this world and the hereafter.

Authorities

Allah (Most High) says,

“O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you…” [Quran 4:59]

Therefore, when it comes to those things that are technically permitted in Sacred Law but where local authorities have decided that we need certain permissions, applications, or approvals, we should follow their decisions, as they were likely made, insha’Allah, with the best interests of society in mind.

Risks

Because conducting this kind of business could potentially be dangerous for someone like you, it might be best to go through the proper checks and obtain a permit or the necessary arrangements to continue. This is because sacred law requires us to follow society’s rules to maintain law and order.

Safeguarding Everyone

If this sacrifice is going to cause you or your family to be in a compromising situation where you or your loved ones will face serious needs, then please don’t stop the business until you find an alternative form of trade or until you manage to secure proper documentation. The sacred law, while requiring caution, does not mandate that you put yourself into a dangerous or ominous position that risks your health and well-being. May Allah bless you, may this benefit you, and may He shower you with His infinite mercy and blessings. Ameen.

And Allah knows best.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.

Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.

He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.

Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town. He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.