The registered office can be located at a virtual office. If you also want a tax domicile, a virtual office is not suitable.
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Setting up a Belgian company offers many opportunities and benefits. We speak the same language, there is a large sales market, you enjoy tax benefits, an excellent infrastructure and a favourable working climate. Belgium is also an innovative country with a strong economy, a strategic location and a high standard of living. It is the perfect location for a successful foreign business adventure.
In addition to similarities, there are of course also differences. Culturally, legally and administratively. Are you planning to start a Belgian company? Then it is important that you are aware of this. Because in Belgium, different social and economic laws prevail. And they influence the way you do business. Examples include environmental legislation, permits, levies, excise duties and employment law. As a Dutchman, you, of course, have no clue. Fortunately, you are not alone. Get assistance and advice from a Belgian specialist in the field, such as OFFIS.
Are you setting up a Belgian company or a Belgian BV? Then choosing the form of company is the first important decision you need to make. Just like in the Netherlands, you have the choice between various forms of company. (Starting a sole proprietorship is also possible, but in this article, we'll look at the Belgian company.)
Which Belgian company form is interesting for you depends on various factors. The sector in which you operate, your capital, the phase in which your company is located (start-up or established value), etc. Another reason why choosing the right legal form is crucial? It affects your tax obligations, such as VAT and income tax, but also your liability. So also know that setting up a Belgian BV as a Dutchman involves certain risks. Therefore, choose the legal form that best suits your company.
The most important distinction between Belgian companies is the legal form: a natural person or a legal person. With a natural person (sole trader), the costs are limited and the conditions are accessible. But if you get into debt, you are personally liable. With a legal person (Belgian BV), you create a new legal entity with rights and obligations. It is more fiscally advantageous and the financial risk is lower. Is your company in bad shape? Then your private assets remain safe. On the other hand, there are higher (start-up) costs and more administrative obligations.
Choosing the right form of business for your Belgian company isn't as complicated as you might think. Each shape has its own specifications. It's just a matter of choosing what best suits your situation. Here are the most common Belgian companies:
Want to know more about Belgian company forms? click here.
As mentioned earlier, every form of enterprise has advantages and disadvantages. But one stands head and shoulders above all else: the private company. Why? It is the most flexible and accessible form of company. Also for foreign entrepreneurs. It doesn't require any initial capital and you can get out at any time.
The Belgian BV is similar to the Dutch one, for example. Do you already have a company in the Netherlands? Then you can be both a shareholder and a director. You are not personally liable and the risk is limited to the capital you contribute. Another advantage? You can only set up a Belgian company. So you don't need a partner. Of course, there are also disadvantages. Below, we list the main pros and cons for you:
No idea which Belgian company suits you? OFFIS shows you the way. Feel free to take contact on.
Setting up a Belgian company as a Dutchman is relatively easy. Especially since you don't need any initial capital. However, you must draw up a financial plan demonstrating that you have sufficient capital to ensure its operation for two years. This may be an input in money, knowledge, work or kind. Aren't you bringing money? This is what you need to call on a company auditor, who will make a report on this and decide whether the ratio between the contribution and the distribution of the shares is reasonable.
Ready with your financial plan? Then it's time to go to the notary. The deed of incorporation will expire after you have submitted your financial plan and any report from the auditor. Do you provide a financial guarantee? Then the notary will also request a bank certificate.
Do you have these things in order? Then there are a number of things you need to arrange before you can start. Apply for a Belgian VAT and company number, register your company with the KBO (Crossroads Bank for Enterprises) and have your VAT number activated with the FPS Finance. As a director or beneficiary of a company, you also need to register in the UBO register. OFFIS can support you in setting up a Belgian BV as a Dutchman.
Anyone who sets up a Belgian company must also join a social insurance fund. It forms the link between the self-employed and government agencies. They collect your social contribution, with which you build up rights and also arrange your social security.
Below, we summarize all the steps for you again:
The incorporation costs of a Belgian company are not that bad. It is therefore one of the cheapest forms of business. However, there are a number of costs involved. Both during activation and maintenance. Below we list the most important ones for you:
The costs vary depending on the complexity, the rate of the service providers you hire and any additional services such as the renting a seat or office, with or without mail processing.
More information about costs, for example, setting up or renting an office in Belgium? Feel free to take contact on.
Do you already have a company in the Netherlands? Then you can enter the Belgian market in three alternative ways. As a subsidiary, as a branch or as a business unit.
This is a legal entity that is linked to the parent company. The administrative procedures for incorporation are similar to those of a Belgian company. Just like the rights and obligations. Benefit? The risk for the parent company is limited to the assets and contributions to the subsidiary company. Disadvantage? You must appoint one or more directors, so you have less control.
The branch is an extension of the Dutch parent company. All its assets and liabilities are related to it. It is not a separate legal entity, but it does have its own company and VAT number. The parent company may appoint a legal representative to the board, but remains at the helm itself. Because the parent company is liable, the financial risk is higher here. On the other hand, you benefit from tax benefits.
This is a foreign branch of the parent company. A store or an office, for example. It is not a separate legal entity, but, like a branch, it does have a Belgian VAT and company number. All activities fall under the parent company. The advantage? You do not have to appoint a legal representative and the formalities for setting up are peanuts compared to a subsidiary or branch.
Setting up a Belgian company or a Belgian company as a Dutchman is a smart move if you want to expand your sales area. You enjoy numerous tax benefits, a great deal of statutory freedom and the protection of your private assets. Provided, of course, that you choose the right form of business. It also requires in-depth knowledge of local laws and regulations, which vary from region to region. The Belgian private company is undoubtedly the best choice. But in what form? It's better to leave that to a specialist.
Rely on OFFIS, because what's Chinese for you is our daily business. As an approved business center, we offer everything you need for a smooth start. Legal, tax and administrative advice, but also a roof over your head. One registered office, tax domicile or business address, including daily mail processing, can be rented from us for as little as €69/month (excluding VAT).
In need of advice? We are happy to help you get started. Feel free to take contact hop on or pop into our office in Antwerp. Coffee is always ready!
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