Registering a company in Belgium is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Belgian Company Register and FPS Finance. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Belgium. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this diverse and business-friendly country. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Belgium. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this vibrant and economically stable nation.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Belgium is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Private Limited Liability Company (Besloten Vennootschap - BV)
- Public Limited Company (Naamloze Vennootschap - NV)
- Cooperative Company (Coöperatieve Vennootschap - CV)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The Belgian Company Register (Kruispuntbank van Ondernemingen - KBO) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/tsv_pub/index_nl.htm
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for BV, NV, and CV)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the KBO's website: https://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/tsv_pub/index_nl.htm
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for BV, NV, and CV) 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
Belgium requires a minimum capital of €1 for BVs, €61,500 for NVs, and no minimum capital for CVs. 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 Belgian Company Register (KBO). This can be done in person at a local Enterprise Counter (Ondernemingsloket) or online via the following link: https://www.ejustice.just.fgov.be/tsv_pub/index_nl.htm
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- BV: €200 (approximately)
- NV: €300 (approximately)
- CV: €200 (approximately)
Branch of a foreign company: €200 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the Belgian Federal Public Service Finance (FPS Finance). This can be done in person at the local Tax Office or online via the following link: https://eservices.minfin.fgov.be/myminfin-web/
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 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.
Related Information
