How to start a company in Belgium?

Starting a Belgian company requires choosing a legal form, registering with BCE, opening a bank account, and completing various administrative steps.

Starting a company in Belgium involves several mandatory steps that must be completed in the correct sequence. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks for standard incorporations.

Step 1: Choose Legal Structure Select from BV/SRL (private limited company), NV/SA (public limited company), or other forms. BV/SRL is most common for small to medium businesses, requiring minimum €1 capital.

Step 2: Reserve Company Name Check availability and reserve your company name through the Federal Public Service Economy's online portal.

Step 3: Draft Articles of Association Prepare founding documents in Dutch, French, or German depending on your region. These must include company purpose, capital structure, and governance rules.

Step 4: Bank Account and Capital Deposit Open a temporary bank account and deposit the required capital. Banks will issue a certificate confirming the deposit.

Step 5: Notarial Deed Execute the incorporation deed before a Belgian notary, who verifies all documents and legal compliance.

Step 6: BCE Registration Register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE) to obtain your enterprise number.

Step 7: Additional Registrations Complete VAT registration, social security enrollment, and any sector-specific licenses.

Step 8: Final Bank Account Convert the temporary account to a permanent business account using your BCE number.

M'Louise Verstraete at Advocatenkantoor Koen Blomme emphasizes that proper preparation of founding documents is crucial to avoid delays and ensure compliance with Belgian corporate law requirements.

For personalized guidance, consult a Belgian Law specialist on TinRate.