Company formation in Liechtenstein

Regulated United Europe advises a number of clients on the incorporation of a company in the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Rich in political stability, a privileged tax climate, and strict privacy laws-all this gives very favourable conditions to incorporate a business.

Our professional team is committed to ensuring your Liechtenstein venture takes off smoothly and with utmost efficiency.

Advantages

Why Choose Regulated United Europe for Your Liechtenstein Venture?

• Professional Consultancy: Our lawyers have acquired profound knowledge and extensive experience in all questions regarding corporate law and regulations of Liechtenstein.
• Personalised Approach: Unique solutions adapted to the peculiar needs of your business concern.
• Efficient Service: Due to a simplified process, your company will be formed quickly and trouble-free.
• Continuing Support: We offer legal and compliance continuing support in Liechtenstein, right from the time of incorporation to the running of your business.

Let us help you start your business in Liechtenstein today with Regulated United Europe. For more consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us for successful company formation in one of Europe’s most business-friendly environments.

How Company Formation in Liechtenstein Works

Advantages of Company Incorporation in Liechtenstein

By establishing a company in Liechtenstein, one discovers manifold attractive advantages. It can be called an attractive headquarter for the growth of any business. The first to be mentioned is the aspect of tax efficiency that comes with the corporate environment of Liechtenstein. To this day, this jurisdiction retains quite a friendly tax regime; the corporate tax rate is competitive, supported by no imposition of capital gains tax. This tax-friendly environment encourages financial savings among its people and places Liechtenstein as one of the excellent centers for companies desirous of optimizing fiscal structures.

Apart from the tax factor, Liechtenstein is a state that ensures political and economic stability. The entity offers a political climate that is stable in which the business can find security, ensuring dependability of conditions for long-term development and success. Moreover, the legal aspects regarding privacy and confidentiality in Liechtenstein are the main appeal of the country. These sound legal provisions ensure extremely high protection of the owners and shareholders of the company, instilling confidence and reliability in business conduct.

Geographically, Liechtenstein lies between Switzerland and Austria and acts as a gateway for entry into crucial European markets. As such, proximity between them fosters ease of access and communication, hence a very good hub for companies operating internationally. Another great merit is the adaptability of the legal framework of Liechtenstein. The jurisdiction allows for an immense range of business needs and structures, thus giving companies flexibility in regard to tailoring activities accordingly.

In other words, Liechtenstein, for example, is a one-stop solution that offers businesses a combination of all features any business looks forward to gaining: advantages in taxes, stability, privacy, strategic positioning, and flexible legislation. Establishment in Liechtenstein gives the business some form of strategic positioning, combining aspirations of sustainable growth and success with an opportunity to act on the European stage.

Furthermore, Liechtenstein actively fosters innovation through the creation of new sectors such as technologies, finance, and environmental concerns. The government stimulates funds for any venture that promises innovation; hence, Liechtenstein is a popular home for a growing number of insightful entrepreneurs.

Although small, Liechtenstein can boast of a very qualified and multilingual labor force. Its proximity to institutions of higher learning in neighboring countries guarantees a constant flow of professionals well-endowed with the latest knowledge in their fields. Indeed, such resourceful talent constitutes an added value to businesses and enables them to hold their own in competitive markets.

Liechtenstein further offers a very high quality of life, great living standards, good health systems, and much safety. All such reasons should turn it easy to attract and retain the finest talent for the achievement of business objectives of long-term scaling and success.

A unique combination of economic stability, a favorable business climate, a strategic location, a business-friendly legal framework, access to a qualified work force, and high quality of life make Liechtenstein an attractive location for entrepreneurs willing to establish and expand their businesses. Its commitment to innovation and support for emerging industries further cements its status as a prime destination for ambitious ventures in search of growth opportunities within a dynamic and thriving environment.

It is Liechtenstein that provides a vision for success by translating the dreams of entrepreneurs into reality and thus setting a course for a successful business in the heart of Europe.

What kinds of companies does Liechtenstein have?

Despite its modest size, Liechtenstein is an attractive jurisdiction to do international business due to its economic stability, favorable tax system and flexible corporate legislation. The country offers several company forms, each of which has its own peculiarities and advantages. In this article we will review the main types of companies available to set up in Liechtenstein.

Joint Stock Company (Aktiengesellschaft, AG)

The form of a joint-stock company is the most tempting type of business organization regarding large projects and international activities to be executed in the Principality of Liechtenstein. The minimum threshold of the statutory capital level is 50,000 Swiss francs, fully paid up at the time of registration. An AG provides its shareholders with limited liability up to their contribution to the share capital.

Limited Liability Company (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung, GmbH)

GmbH is used by small and medium-sized enterprises needing a less share capital than AG. The minimum authorized capital is 30,000 Swiss francs. The liability of participants is limited to their share of investments in the authorized capital. A GmbH needs to have at least one manager; he should be a resident of Liechtenstein.

Partnership (Limited company, CO and Collective company, KG)

A partnership in Liechtenstein can be arranged either as a limited partnership (CO) or as a collective partnership (CG). These forms of businesses are ideal for family businesses or small partner projects. In a limited partnership, one or more partners are fully responsible, while others have limited liability. A collective society requires all partners to be jointly and fully responsible for the company’s obligations.

Trust (Treuh­nderschaft)

Liechtenstein is known for having trust structures that guarantee a high level of privacy and asset protection. A Liechtenstein trust allows the founder to transfer assets to a trustee, who then manages those assets for the benefit of the beneficiaries. Trusts are widely used for planning and asset protection in relation to inheritance.

Anstalt

Anstalt is a special kind of company in Liechtenstein, which is effectively used in both commercial activity and private asset management. A legal body, having characteristics of both a joint-stock company and a foundation. Anstalt may issue shares if this is provided for in its Statute, but it can also be owned by one owner. Quite a popular form among international investors in the sphere of asset management and investment.

Foundation

Foundations in Liechtenstein usually serve for long-term asset management, inheritance planning, and charitable purposes. Funds can enjoy tax benefits depending on their structure and purpose. Minimum authorized capital, depending on the purpose of the fund, can start from 30,000 Swiss francs.

Liechtenstein offers the investor a great variety of corporate structuring, depending on the needs of international investors and the local need for entrepreneurship. Each type of structuring involves a trade-off regarding business volume, tax considerations, privacy requirements, and asset management. Considering the completeness of legislation and tax systems, which are in place, advice from professionals is recommended when selecting the right corporate structure.

What is the amount of the authorized capital in Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein provides several forms of legal entities under which to conduct business, with its favorable business environment, flexible corporate structures, and favorable tax treatment. One of the most important questions for company registration is the size of the authorized capital. Below in the article, we will review minimum authorized capital requirements for different types of companies in Liechtenstein.

 

Joint Stock Company (AG)

A joint-stock company, Aktiengesellschaft or AG, set up in Liechtenstein, should have at least 50,000 Swiss francs (CHF) as an authorized capital. It has to be paid in full at the time of incorporation. AG allows its shareholders to limit their liability to the size of their contributions to the company’s capital.

Limited Liability Company (GmbH)

For a GmbH, the minimum authorized capital is 30,000 CHF. The members invest their shares in a GmbH company, which also limits the liability of the members to the amount invested, whereas in an AG, the capital is divided into shares. Contrary to an AG,

Limited Company (Kommanditgesellschaft, KG)

As mentioned previously, the minimum level of an authorized capital is not clearly defined in Liechtenstein for a limited company. KG The minimum is a limited liability investor whose liability is up to his contribution to company’s capital and one full partner with unlimited liability.

Collective company Kollektivgesellschaft KG

There is also no minimum amount of authorized capital for a collective company. All partners in a KG are jointly and unlimitedly liable for the company’s obligations; consequently, this form of company is less popular among investors trying to limit their liability.

Anstalt

Anstalt is a unique Liechtenstein corporate form that can either take the function of a commercial organisation or take the role of a holding company regarding asset management. Whereas the minimum needed authorized capital for an anstalt shall be set individually in each case, depending on the structure and purpose of the respective company, it often is CHF 30,000.

Foundation (Stiftung)

The minimum legally required capital for a foundation, on the other hand, is normally also CHF 30,000. Foundations are usually used for asset management and inheritance and charitable purposes, enjoying considerable tax privileges and a high level of confidentiality.

In the Principality of Liechtenstein, there are several types of companies, each of them having its own needs concerning the amount of the authorized capital. Selection of an appropriate form would depend upon such issues as the scope of activity, strategic goals, the level of responsibility, and the level of confidentiality desirable. Given the importance and difficulty of these decisions, it is recommended that investors get professional advice from qualified lawyers and financial consultants in Liechtenstein.

Should a Liechtenstein company have a local director?

Liechtenstein, owing to its economic stability, attractive tax policy, and liberal corporate law, turned into a very attractive country for international business. Among the main issues that face foreign investors while setting up a company in the Principality of Liechtenstein is the need for having a resident director. Now let me give details on in which cases a Liechtenstein company has to appoint a local director and what role and what responsibilities such a director has.

Requirements for Appointing a Local Director

The law in Liechtenstein provides that for certain company types, there shall necessarily be a local director or manager, who may or may not be a resident of Liechtenstein. This requirement arises in the case of legal entities such as an Aktiengesellschaft, that is, a joint-stock company or an AG, and a limited liability company or a GmbH.

Role of the Local Director

The position is vital in the company management since the local director will ensure the company is in compliance with local legal and tax requirements. He/She also stands a better chance of representing the company before government agencies, banks, and other institutions. Not to mention that with a local director, the way of communication and the administrative procedure can be a lot smoother. Hence, the role of the local director facilitates communications and administrative tasks.

Responsibilities of the Local Director

The local director is in charge of the day-to-day management of the organization and ensuring that the organization’s activities are at par with the national legislation. Among others, its responsibilities include:

• Ensuring legality in the conduct of the firm’s affairs.
• Handling financial transactions; hence it has to comply with the commitment of taxes.
• Provision of yearly reports and other reports to regulating authorities.

Benefits of Engaging a Resident Director

There are several benefits one gets when engaging a resident director. They include but are not limited to:

• Strengthens the reputation of the company as a local business entity through the enhancement of trust of local partners and customers.
• Resolution of administrative and legal issues is offered with the utmost speed.
• The acquaintance of the local business climate and market conditions will be enhanced.

How To Find A Local Director

A local director may be found with the support of specific agencies specializing in corporate services, or by recommendations from business partners in Liechtenstein. In this respect, a good candidate must have the required experience and reputation that would make him trustworthy for the management of the company.

For those companies looking to operate in the Principality of Liechtenstein, appointing a local director is an important step, both from a compliance perspective under local legislation and from a strategic point of view for added value in the management of the business. Nevertheless, choosing the right type of local director demands thoroughness in approach and consideration of the role of responsibilities within the context of your business.

What is the amount of state fees upon incorporation of a company in Liechtenstein?

The stable economy, attractive tax system, and flexible corporate structures make Liechtenstein attractive for entrepreneurs all over the world. Still, as in any other jurisdiction, the setup of a company is associated with state fees. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the state fees look like against the backdrop of establishing different types of companies in Liechtenstein to let you plan your initial costs effectively.

State fees of the formation case in Liechtenstein depend on the kind of organization and size of the authorized capital. Generally speaking, it is worth considering all possible expenses in advance to effectively plan the budget of opening your business. We recommend addressing professional legal and financial experts in Liechtenstein for timely advice and support in the process of registering a company.

What does it cost annually to service a company in Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein ranks among the most attractive jurisdictions for international business with regard to its stable economy, very favorable tax system, and strategic location in Europe. However, doing business in this country is associated with several annual expenses. Further in this article, we will approach, in more detail, what exactly these annual costs are to service a company in Liechtenstein, both the basic and additional ones.

Basic Annual Expenses

1. State Annual Fee: All the companies in Liechtenstein have to pay an annual state fee, which can vary in size depending on the company type and the amount of its authorized capital. It might amount to 1,800 to 2,000 Swiss francs for a joint stock AG or limited liability GmbH company.
2. Registration Fees: Depending on the needs of changes in the data of the company’s registration, an extra charge might be needed for providing such an update in the trade register.
3. Accounting Services: Annual reporting and bookkeeping are mandatory for all companies. The accounting service price depends on the volume and complexity of the company’s financial activities, starting from several thousand CHF per year.

Additional Costs

1. Audit Services: Certain types of Liechtenstein companies are obliged to conduct an audit at the end of each financial year. The cost of an audit is based upon the size of the company and also upon the scope of the financial activities to be audited.
2. Legal Services: Ongoing legal consulting may be needed, not only in respect of maintaining appropriate records, compliance with changing laws and regulations, but also with regard to corporate governance and tax advice. The costs for such services are various, depending on the specific tasks to be undertaken.
3. Address and Virtual Office: The majority of users in Liechtenstein make use of virtual office services by providing a local legal address and a phone number. That could range from several hundred up to several thousand CHF yearly, depending on the services provided.
4. Local Director Services: In case your company type requires the appointment of a local director then his or her fee needs to be added into your annual budget. This can amount to several thousand up to tens of thousands per year in CHF.

The servicing cost may vary, therefore, depending on the size and complexity of the activities of a company in Liechtenstein and also depending on additional services chosen. Thus, the average annual cost of servicing can vary from several thousand to several tens of thousands of Swiss francs. Of course, the best option would be to closely consult with local experts to make an appropriate plan of your budget and optimize your tax burden accordingly.

Although it is advantageous to conduct business in Liechtenstein, the strategy for annual expenses will require serious consideration. It is only possible to optimally adapt your operation once you take note of the usual costs for services that your company provides. This will indeed give you a real chance to successfully build your business in this respectable jurisdiction.

What are the main advantages of establishing a company in Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein, though small, is a principality between Switzerland and Austria. In the past decades, it has established itself as one of Europe’s key financial centers. Its stable economy, favorable tax regime, and flexible corporate law provide manifold business opportunities. Let us look into the main ones.

Establishment of a company in Liechtenstein offers several advantages, including the favorable tax system, confidentiality, economic and political stability, flexible corporate legislation, skilled manpower, and an advantageous geographic location. All these advantages make Liechtenstein one of the most favored territories of international business and investment.

What are the ways to establish a company in Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein, thanks to its favorable tax system, strict confidentiality, and stable economy, is an attractive jurisdiction for international business. This principality offers various ways to establish a company, taking into account the needs and goals of investors. In this article, we will look at the main ways to establish a company in Liechtenstein.

Direct Registration

The most straightforward method of establishing a firm in the State of Liechtenstein is direct registration. This procedure basically involves the preparation and filing of all relevant documents with the Commercial Registry of Liechtenstein, supplemented by the statute of the company, the list of directors and founders, proof of authorized capital, and all other relevant documents. Direct registration is indicated for investors willing to create a new company with a “clean slate”.

Buying of a ready company

A very convenient option for investors who plan to enter the market as soon as possible is buying a ready company – a so-called “shelf company”. Such companies have already been registered in Liechtenstein but were not active. The advantage of purchasing a ready company is that you will not need to spend much time and effort on the registration process of a new company; it will immediately give you a legal address and a ready-made corporate structure.

Bespoke Incorporation

Incorporation of a company in Liechtenstein, the choice of the most suitable corporate structure, drafting individual articles of association and other constitutional documents, and its registration, are all tailored according to the investors’ particular requirements and preferences to meet either their personal or business objectives. It is highly suitable for large investments involving complicated corporate structures.

Through a Legal Entity or Trust

Investors can also set up a company in Liechtenstein through existing legal entities or trusts. This can be useful in creating a complex financial structure or to administer and maintain assets within a family business or for estate planning. This process requires deep expertise in the fields of corporate and trust law in Liechtenstein.

Joint Venture with a Resident Entrepreneur

Some of the activities may require partnering with a local businessman or company. This makes the procedure of company registration and management easier, and can develop better knowledge of the local market and legislation as well.

All the factors such as business objectives, capital structure, need for privacy, and speed of market entry play a critical role in the choice of the way to establish a company in Liechtenstein. In any respect, successful establishment and operation of business in Liechtenstein depends on careful planning and thorough understanding of local legislation. It is necessary to contact qualified legal and financial consultants in order to comply with all the requirements and to optimize the registration process.

Do I need to have a registered office in Liechtenstein?

Due to its stable economy, attractive tax system, and considerable level of privacy, Liechtenstein presently is one of the first-class international business jurisdictions. Among the basic prerequisites for incorporation and further operation of a legal entity in this country is a requirement to have a registered office. Let’s take a closer look at why a legal address is needed and what functions it performs.

Legal Address

Legal address shall mean the official address of the firm, which shall be stated in state registration and for the purpose of correspondence. The legal address is considered the primary site of the business organization and shall be reflected in all the certification documents as well as on stamp, seal.

Why Do You Need a Registered Office in Liechtenstein?

1. Legal Conformity: Under the law in Liechtenstein, it is obligatory that each company incorporated in the country should have a legally registered office in the principality. It is here where the law renders legality and the companies responsible to their local authorities.
2. Corporate Correspondence: The legally valid address is to be used for official correspondence with state institutions, banks, partners, and clients. The local address, in fact, easily facilitates notification or communication processes.
3. Credibility and Trust: Having a registered office in Liechtenstein enhances the profile of your company in front of both domestic and foreign partners and customers; underlines its respect towards the law and stability.
4. Access to Banking and Financial Services: Generally, the opening of accounts and provision of other financial services in banks of Liechtenstein is conditioned by the confirmation of the Company’s presence in the country with a local legal address.

How to Get Legal Address?

• Office rental: This could be an option to obtain a registered office address in Liechtenstein by renting office space. It would best suit those companies that need to have some kind of physical presence and at the same time a little bit of workspace.
• Virtual office services: Most of them are able to provide virtual office services, which will entail all services related to providing a legal address, postal service, and even phone numbers. In cases where companies have no need for a permanent physical address, it is rather cheaper.
• Partnership with a local entrepreneur: A business may entrust legal powers to a local businessman or legal entities who might also use their address as the legal address of the company.

In this connection, having a registered office in Liechtenstein is not only highly essential for all sorts of registered companies but also a substantial factor to their legality, communication, and operation. Which one is better, in terms of providing a legal address, depends on the details and requirements of the particular business, and it also depends on what kind of budget can be afforded. Be that as it may, a registered office in Liechtenstein opens vistas for the company desiring to enter the world of international business and finance.

Can I open a branch of a foreign company in Liechtenstein?

With Liechtenstein having a welcoming tax policy and an especially strategic location on the map of Europe, it is a location many international companies seek to grow their operations. The opening of a branch in the country is one way for a company that wants to have a strong presence in the European market. Let us consider some key aspects that usually come into play in the process of setting up a branch within this jurisdiction.

Understanding A Branch

The branch of a foreign company in Liechtenstein is not considered an independent legal entity but a continuation of the foreign company as such. A logical consequence of that would be the full liability of the parent company for all acts and liabilities of its branch.

Advantages of the Registration of A Branch Office

• Branding: An opened branch office of the firm in Liechtenstein would mean increasing brand awareness and developing its presence within the European market.
• Tax Benefits: The Principality of Liechtenstein provides favorable taxation conditions for foreign companies, which enable the reduction of the total burden of taxation.
• Access to the European Market: Due to treaties on economy, Liechtenstein enjoys preferential treatment in trade and investment with this union of states.

The Process Of Opening A Branch Office

1. Document Preparation: Preparation and translation into German of the constituent documents of the parent company, such as the certificate of incorporation, the charter, and the list of directors.
2. Registration in the Commercial Register: In such a case, the branch is obliged to be registered within the Commercial Register of Liechtenstein. You have to apply for it, attaching the documentation prepared accordingly, also describing the planned activity of the branch.
3. Appointment of a Representative: The Branch has to appoint a representative in the Principality of Liechtenstein as its agent responsible for contacts with local government agencies.
4. Legal and Postal Address: The branch shall have a legal address in Liechtenstein, where it can be reached in writing with official correspondence.
5. Paying State Fees: Upon registration of the branch, a specific state fee shall be paid, which shall be determined by the size of the authorized capital of the parent company.

Taxation of Branch

Branches of foreign companies in Liechtenstein are subject to 12.5% income tax, but still, many tax advantages might be availed considering a wide scope of double taxation agreements.

Opening a branch of a foreign company in Liechtenstein is a good strategic step toward expansion and strengthening its position in the European market. Careful preparation, including the study of local legislation, will be required. Anyway, we recommend you consult qualified legal and financial consultants with the aim of meeting all requirements and optimizing the process of registration.

Can a foreigner open a company in Liechtenstein?

Thanks to attractive tax policy, tight confidentiality, and favorable geographical location, Liechtenstein has become a respectable jurisdiction for international business. But is it at all possible for foreigners to open a company in this country? The answer is yes. This article is dedicated to looking at some basic aspects and needs connected with that process.

Company Opening by Foreigners

A quite open attitude towards foreign investors is declared in Liechtenstein, and the country’s legislation allows them to establish companies of various forms of ownership. Of course, it should be taken into consideration that the procedure for the registration and management of a company can vary depending on the type of the chosen corporate structure, as well as on the field of activity.

Type of Companies

Foreign business people can set up various types of companies in Liechtenstein:

• Joint Stock Company (AG)
• Limited Liability Company
• Anstalt
• Foundation
• Trust

All of these types have their specific features and requirements as to the size of the authorized capital and the management organization.

Legal and Postal Address

For company registration in Liechtenstein, you need to have a registered office in Liechtenstein, which can be satisfied either by office rental or by virtual office services.

Appointment of a Director

Although foreigners may establish and own companies in Liechtenstein, there could be such circumstances to require the appointment of a local director or manager who will operate and represent the interests of the company to the local authorities.

Registration Process

The constituent documents, including the company’s charter, a list of founders and directors, and proof of payment of the authorized capital, are prepared and submitted as part of the registration process. This translation into German needs notarization, certification, as would all other documents.

Taxation

In Liechtenstein, companies are subject to taxation from their net income at a rate of 12.5%. However, the country offers quite a number of tax breaks and benefits, among them no capital gain tax and no dividend tax if conditions are met.

Foreigners can open and conduct a company in Liechtenstein very well, considering many advantages given by this jurisdiction. In any case, it is highly recommended to ask qualified legal and financial consultants due to the complication of local legislation and registration demands. It is for total compliance with all the rules and regulations; besides, this will help avoid all potential difficulties in creating and conducting a business in Liechtenstein.

Can I get a residence permit by forming a company in Liechtenstein?

Liechtenstein became an attractive place to live and conduct business, including due to such positive factors as economic stability, a high standard of living, and favorable tax policy. In this connection, the question about the possibility of obtaining a residence permit in Liechtenstein in conjunction with the opening of a company is of interest for many foreign entrepreneurs. Further, it will be discussed what requirements and conditions are to be met so that such a result can be achieved.

Opportunities For Obtaining A Residence Permit

Liechtenstein has strict immigration policies and only issues a limited quota of residence permits to foreigners every year. This type of investment in the economy can, however, be regarded as a positive factor in the application and granting of a residence permit by the same method of setting up a company.

Categories of Residence Permit

• Active Investors: In case of foreign businessmen opening or establishing any business in Liechtenstein, they are fully entitled to apply for residence as an active investor. An important proviso here is that they can create job opportunities for the locals, along with significant economic contribution for the host country.
• Self-employed: A foreign national can also apply for a residence permit if he/she wants to work in a self-employed manner in Liechtenstein. In order for you to be able to do this, you need to send in a business plan and be able to prove economic security with the availability of clients in Liechtenstein.

Requirements

How to Apply

Application involves compiling the necessary documents and sending them to the Liechtenstein Immigration Service. This may also be accompanied by an interview and giving further information if the relevant authorities deem it necessary.

Although getting a residence permit in Liechtenstein is hard due to the limited quantity of permits issued, opening a company and proving its contribution to the economy of this country could substantially increase the chances of a foreign entrepreneur. Careful preparation for the procedure and observation of all the requirements are needed. We recommend professional advice from legal and immigration consultants dealing in Liechtenstein from Regulated United Europe to ensure your residence permit application is successful.

What is written in the charter of a company registered in Liechtenstein?

The Charter is one of the main constituent documents of the company, determining the structure of its management, rights and obligations of participants, and the main principles of the company’s activities. In Liechtenstein, actually in many countries, the statute is an obligatory element in the process of company incorporation and it plays a great role in its life cycle. In the article we consider, usually what is written in the charter of the company registered in Liechtenstein.

The Charter is a foundational document of the company, which, besides designation of the legal form of its operation within the Principality of Liechtenstein, takes on functions of protection of interests of founders and participants. Its preparation and registration should be treated with utmost consideration and based on detailed knowledge of both corporate and local legislation. For such a purpose, professional advice by competent legal and financial advisors at Regulated United Europe is highly recommended.

How much time does it take to establish a firm in Liechtenstein?

Establishing a firm in Liechtenstein involves various legal and administrative steps. Liechtenstein, thanks to the stability of its economy and advantageous system of taxation, therefore attracts foreign investors under the following variants. The time required for creating a firm may differ depending on the following conditions, but not limited to: the type of company, complexity of legal training, and the way the interaction with local authorities is organized. Herein, we will consider how much time it usually takes for establishing a firm in Liechtenstein.

Preparatory Stage

Before filing, you will need to prepare all the documents with particular thoroughness. It includes the preparation of a business plan, naming of the company, drafting of charter, and collecting constituent documents. The preparatory stage may take several days to some weeks depending on how complicated your business is and on whether all information and financial data are on hand.

Registration Procedure

Actual company registration may be initiated after preparation and gathering of all documents. Steps for registration include:

1. Submission of Documents: Your documents need to be submitted to the Liechtenstein Commercial Register for the official registration of the company. The length of this process will be from several days up to a few weeks, depending on the workload of the registering service and completeness of the provided documentation.
2. Obtaining a Legal Address: In order to establish a company in Liechtenstein, you would be required to have a legal address locally. The establishment of a legal address may require some additional time in cases when this wasn’t provided at the time of your document submission.
3. Opening of Bank Account: One of the conditions for completing registration is to open a corporate bank account and deposit the authorized capital. The time required to open an account may vary from several days to several weeks depending on the bank and completeness of documents submitted for this purpose.

Average Time to Set up a Company

Generally, incorporation of a company in Liechtenstein takes from 4 to 6 weeks from the very beginning of the preparation of documents until the completion of registration. However, this period might vary depending on specific circumstances, such as a type of corporate structure chosen, need for some additional licenses or permits, and speed of collection and submission of all necessary documents.

While it may seem that the process of setting up a company in Liechtenstein is long, many entrepreneurs believe that the time spent is worth the benefits of doing business in this jurisdiction. It is necessary to be well-prepared and to use professional consultants’ services in order for the whole registration process to be completed efficiently and smoothly.

What activities can companies carry out in Liechtenstein?

The Principality of Liechtenstein is a tiny country in the middle of Europe, renowned for its irresistible tax policy, high level of privacy, and stable economic environment—all factors that turn it into an attractive location for international business and investments. Now, let’s have a look at the activities that are allowed to be carried out by companies registered in the Principality of Liechtenstein and what opportunities and features this unique jurisdiction offers.

Liechtenstein offers foreign investors a broad range of expansion and market entry opportunities, from financial services through high-tech manufacturing to innovative research, in an environment not found anywhere else in the world.

Should a Liechtenstein company employ?

Whether employees are registered in a company or not depends on many factors, especially the type of business, scale of operation, and particular statutory requirements. Liechtenstein, due to its appealing tax system and stable economic environment, is an appealing jurisdiction for many foreign investors. Let’s take a closer look at some aspects related to the requirements concerning the presence of employees in companies registered in Liechtenstein.

General Requirements

Generally speaking, Liechtenstein legislation is not very exigent concerning the availability of staff for all companies without exception. However, there might be some situations and activities where full-time employees would be needed:

1. Industry-specific: Activities requiring specific knowledge or licensing, like the financial sector, health care, or education, might be those that would require qualified employees to be hired.
2. Operational Requirements: If the company’s operational processes require a physical office, warehouse, or production facility in Liechtenstein, there is a likelihood that local staff will be needed to support daily operations.
3. Regulatory Requirements: Depending on the structure and scale of the business, there may be requirements under the law or regulations on minimum or specific staffing levels. This can relate to safety, compliance with standards around quality, and other aspects of the business.

Flexibility and Alternatives

1. Outsourcing and Freelancers: Companies that do not want to recruit permanent employees can avail outsourcing and freelancing services in order to get certain tasks and projects executed. This could result in financial advantages on cost reduction and operational flexibility.
2. Virtual Office: In case your business does not require actual employees in Liechtenstein, virtual office services are available. You will get a legal address and post service without the need to employ people locally.

While having staff in a Liechtenstein-registered company is not necessary for all types of businesses, it has to be assessed prudently what the needs of your company are from an operational viewpoint and what kind of regulation can apply to you. Strategic planning and analysis of the goals of your business in Liechtenstein should serve as the basis of choosing whether to employ personnel, outsource, or use virtual services. Anyway, it will be recommended taking professional advice which will guarantee that your company will be in concord with the local legislation and its business processes will be optimized.

How do I choose a name for my Company in Liechtenstein?

Setting the name of a company is a very serious decision, especially if one is doing business in Liechtenstein. The name a company bears provides the first impression a customer gets from certain business. It therefore plays an important role in branding and marketing. In Liechtenstein, like in any other jurisdiction, there are some limitations and certain rules with regard to the choice of company name. Herein, we refer to some tips and tricks that shall be useful on the way.

Liechtenstein Business Registry

Although small, Liechtenstein is one of the most well-off countries in the heart of Europe. It opens up exclusive possibilities for international business. This country attracts entrepreneurs from all over the world with its stable economy, high level of privacy, and an attractive tax system. It is one of those elements that ensures the functioning and management of business structures in Liechtenstein, which features the Business Register or Handelsregister. It is an official register carrying all information about companies and enterprises registered within the country.

What is the Liechtenstein Business Register?

The Business Register is a public register kept by the Liechtenstein Office of Justice. Examples of what may be contained in the register include legal entities registered in the Principality. The given registration and information system plays an important role in ensuring business transparency and protecting investors’ rights.

Why should I be listed in the business register?

Registration in the Liechtenstein Business Register is a sine qua non condition for the business being conducted within the Principality to be considered legal. Thanks to this, enterprises can conduct official activity, and consequently, enjoy protection under the law, maintain bank accounts, and establish commercial relations. The registration of an enterprise is also one of the conditions that entitle it to meet its obligations associated with taxes, as well as with the annual filing of financial reports.

What information does the business register contain?

The information of the registered companies making part of the Liechtenstein Business Register is represented by the following:

• Full name and form of ownership of the company;
• Registration address;
• Information about the registration number and registration date;
• Information about directors and founders;
• The size of the authorized capital;
• The main type of activity;
• Information about branches and representative offices, if any.

Advantages of doing business in Liechtenstein

• Low taxes: In fact, Liechtenstein has one of the lowest tax rates in Europe, that is why it is so popular among international businesses.
• High Privacy: The country is known to have strict data protection laws that grant a high level of privacy for businesses conducting business with or within the country.
• Stability and security: Political and economic stability, high standard of living, security.
• International business convenience: With a number of international agreements and membership to the European Economic Area, Liechtenstein opens favorably toward the European and worldwide markets.

The Liechtenstein Business Register contributes to a high level of transparency and protects the interests of doing business in the Principality. This creates legal grounds for the operation of companies and an environment conducive to a favorable investment climate. This inimitable blend of low taxes, high privacy, and international integration makes Liechtenstein one of the most attractive locations for international business in Europe.