Question 1

What are the different legal forms available in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

In Belgium, several legal forms are available for starting a business: SRL (Private Limited Company) : The most common form, suitable for most entrepreneurs with liability limited to contributions. SA (Public Limited Company) : For larger-scale projects, with a minimum capital of €61,500. SComm (Limited Partnership) : Combines general partners (unlimited liability) and limited partners (limited liability). SNC (General Partnership) : All partners are jointly and severally liable without limit. Sole trader (natural person) : No distinction between personal and professional assets. The choice depends on many factors: number of partners, available capital, desired liability, taxation, etc. We recommend consulting an expert to guide you towards the most suitable form for your project.

Question 2

What is the minimum capital required to create an SRL in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Since the reform of the Companies and Associations Code (CAC) that came into force in 2019, there is no longer a legal minimum capital to create an SRL in Belgium. The concept of "capital" has been replaced by "sufficient equity". However, you must have sufficient resources to carry out your business project. The founders must justify in a financial plan that the planned financial means are sufficient to ensure the company's operation for at least two years. In practice, even though there is no longer a legal minimum, it is generally recommended to plan a starting capital appropriate to your activity to ensure your company's credibility with partners, suppliers and clients.

Question 3

What are the steps to create a company in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Creating a company in Belgium generally follows these steps: Developing a business plan : Define your project, study the market and establish a financial plan. Choosing the legal form : SRL, SA, sole trader, etc. Drafting the articles of association : Official document defining the operating rules of your company. Opening a professional bank account : To deposit the initial capital. Deed of incorporation : Signing the articles before a notary (for companies). Publication in the Belgian Official Gazette : To make the creation official. Registration with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) : To obtain your company number. Activation of your VAT number : If your activity is subject to VAT. Affiliation with a social insurance fund : For self-employed persons and directors. Opening of legal registers : Depending on your activity. Our team can accompany you at every step of this process to ensure a smooth start.

Question 4

What is company domiciliation and what are its advantages?

Accepted Answer

Company domiciliation is a service that allows a company to establish its registered office at a professional address without physically occupying premises there on a permanent basis. This service offers many advantages: Financial savings : Significantly lower cost than traditional office rental. Professional image : Prestigious address in a recognised business district, enhancing your company's credibility. Flexibility : Work from wherever you want while maintaining a stable professional presence. Mail management : Reception, sorting and forwarding of your professional mail according to your preferences. Confidentiality : Separation between personal and professional address. Additional services : Access to meeting rooms, telephone reception, administrative support, etc. Domiciliation is particularly suitable for independent entrepreneurs, startups, companies in the development phase and foreign companies wishing to establish themselves in Belgium.

Question 5

Is company domiciliation legal in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Yes, company domiciliation is perfectly legal in Belgium, provided it is carried out in compliance with certain rules: The domiciliation provider must be legally established and have the necessary authorisations. A proper domiciliation contract must be established between the provider and the domiciled company. The domiciliation address must correspond to a place where the company can effectively be contacted (mail reception, possibility of holding meetings, etc.). Domiciliation must not be used to conceal illegal activities or circumvent legal obligations. Our domiciliation service scrupulously complies with all Belgian legal requirements. We provide a contract in accordance with legislation and guarantee that your company can be effectively contacted at the domiciliation address.

Question 6

What are the accounting obligations of a company in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Accounting obligations in Belgium vary according to the size and legal form of the company: For all companies: Maintain accounts appropriate to the nature and extent of activities Keep books and supporting documents for 7 years Prepare an annual inventory File an annual tax return For companies (SRL, SA, etc.): Keep double-entry bookkeeping Prepare annual accounts (balance sheet, income statement, notes) File annual accounts with the National Bank of Belgium (NBB) Keep a journal, a general ledger and an inventory book For large companies: appoint a statutory auditor We strongly recommend using a professional accountant to ensure compliance with these obligations and benefit from advice tailored to your specific situation.

Question 7

What are the main taxes for a company in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Companies in Belgium are subject to several types of taxes and levies: Corporate income tax (CIT) : Basic rate: 25% Reduced rate for SMEs: 20% on the first €100,000 bracket (subject to conditions) Advance payments recommended to avoid surcharges Value Added Tax (VAT) : Standard rate: 21% Reduced rates: 6% (essential goods) and 12% (certain services) Monthly or quarterly declarations depending on turnover As Belgian taxation is complex and constantly evolving, we strongly recommend using an accountant or tax advisor to optimise your situation and ensure compliance with all your obligations.

Question 8

What are the main legal obligations of a company in Belgium?

Accepted Answer

Belgian companies must comply with several important legal obligations: Constitutive obligations : Drafting and publication of articles of association Registration with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) Opening a professional bank account VAT number activation if necessary Accounting obligations : Maintaining accounts in accordance with Belgian law Preparation of annual accounts Filing annual accounts with the National Bank of Belgium Keeping accounting documents for 7 years Non-compliance with these obligations may result in administrative, financial or criminal sanctions. Our domiciliation service can help you efficiently organise the monitoring of these obligations and connect you with experts to support you.

Frequently asked questions

Company formation

Company domiciliation

Business management

Tax aspects

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