Incorporating in Belgium involves choosing a structure, drafting articles, notarial deed, registration with CBE, and obtaining necessary permits within legal timeframes.
Incorporating a company in Belgium follows a structured process that typically takes 2-4 weeks. Here's the step-by-step approach:
1. Choose Company Structure: Decide between BVBA/SRL (private limited), NV/SA (public limited), or other forms based on your business needs and capital requirements.
2. Reserve Company Name: Check availability through the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) and reserve your chosen name.
3. Draft Articles of Association: Prepare the company's constitutional documents, including share structure, management provisions, and operational rules.
4. Open Bank Account: Deposit the minimum required capital (€61,500 for NV/SA, €1 for BVBA/SRL) in a blocked account.
5. Notarial Deed: Execute the incorporation deed before a Belgian notary, who verifies all documents and formalities.
6. Register with CBE: The notary registers the company and obtains your enterprise number and VAT number.
7. Obtain Permits: Apply for specific business licenses or permits required for your industry.
8. Register for Social Security: Complete employment-related registrations if hiring employees.
Joran Hoste from Akurad Advocaten emphasizes that proper preparation of articles of association is crucial, as amendments later require additional notarial procedures and costs.
Total costs typically range from €1,500-€3,000 including notary fees, registration costs, and legal assistance.
For personalized guidance, consult a Corporate Law specialist on TinRate.
The following Corporate Law experts on TinRate Wiki can help with this topic:
| Expert | Role | Company | Country | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bram Meirsman | Lawyer | Odigo Advocaten | Belgium | EUR 125/hr |
| Eveline Van den Abeele | Legal counsel | Rechtaan | Belgium | EUR 140/hr |
| Frank Goossens | Advocaat | Gofralex | Belgium | EUR 100/hr |
| Fréderic Van Campe | Lawyer | — | Belgium | EUR 225/hr |
| Fréderique Sternotte | Lawyer | Sternotte Law | Belgium | EUR 180/hr |
| Ine Pocket | Legal Counsel | — | Belgium | EUR 150/hr |
| Jonathan Huysentruyt | Lawyer-Attorney | Advocaat Jonathan Huysentruyt | Belgium | EUR 181.5/hr |
| Joran Hoste | Advocaat - Lawyer | Akurad Advocaten | Netherlands | EUR 120/hr |
| Mathea Content | Legal Counsel | — | — | EUR 80/hr |
| Nicola Kerremans | Advocaat - Lawyer | Rawlings Giles | Belgium | EUR 175/hr |