Registering a company in Liechtenstein is a structured process that involves choosing a company type, selecting a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Liechtenstein Office of Justice and Tax Administration. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well-prepared to successfully establish your business in Liechtenstein. Adherence to the requirements and guidelines is crucial to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this prosperous and business-friendly country. With its strategic location in the heart of Europe, solid financial system, and strong legal framework, Liechtenstein offers an attractive environment for businesses of all sizes and sectors.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Liechtenstein is to decide on the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Limited Liability Company (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung - GmbH)
- Joint Stock Company (Aktiengesellschaft - AG)
- Establishment (Anstalt)
- Trust Enterprise (Treuunternehmen)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose an appropriate name. The Liechtenstein Office of Justice provides guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.llv.li/#/1758/handelsregister
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for GmbH, AG, Anstalt, and Treuunternehmen)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be downloaded from the Office of Justice's website: https://www.llv.li/#/1758/handelsregister
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for all types) 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
Liechtenstein requires a minimum capital of CHF 30,000 for GmbHs, CHF 50,000 for AGs, and no minimum capital for Anstalt, Treuunternehmen and branches of foreign companies.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are prepared, you can submit your application to the Liechtenstein Office of Justice. This can be done in person at their office or by mail. The link to their website is: https://www.llv.li/#/1758/handelsregister
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- GmbH: CHF 1,000 (approximately)
- AG: CHF 1,000 (approximately)
- Anstalt: CHF 1,000 (approximately)
- Treuunternehmen: CHF 1,000 (approximately)
- Branch of a foreign company: CHF 1,000 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the Tax Administration of Liechtenstein. This can be done in person at their office or via mail. For more information, visit: https://www.llv.li/#/1468/steuerverwaltung
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 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.
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