Registering a company in Denmark is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Danish Business Authority and Danish Tax Agency. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Denmark. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this business-friendly country.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Denmark is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Private Limited Company (Anpartsselskab - ApS)
- Public Limited Company (Aktieselskab - A/S)
- Entrepreneurial Company (Iværksætterselskab - IVS)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.virk.dk
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for ApS, A/S, and IVS)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the Erhvervsstyrelsen's website: https://www.virk.dk
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for ApS, A/S, and IVS) or one representative (for Branch of a foreign company). Directors or representatives must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Capital requirements
Denmark requires a minimum capital of DKK 40,000 for ApS, DKK 400,000 for A/S, and DKK 1 for IVS. There is no minimum capital requirement for branches of foreign companies.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen). This can be done online via the following link: https://www.virk.dk
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- ApS: DKK 670 (approximately)
- A/S: DKK 2,025 (approximately)
- IVS: DKK 670 (approximately)
- Branch of a foreign company: DKK 670 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the Danish Tax Agency (SKAT). This can be done in person at the local Tax Office or online via the following link: https://www.skat.dk
Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional permits or licenses. Check with the relevant authorities and industry regulators for specific requirements.
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from preparing documents to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.