I would like to set up a business in Luxembourg or establish myself as a sole trader. What are the factors that I need to consider?
Choice of legal form
The choice of legal form is a crucial step in setting up a business. Different structures are suited to specific types of activities or entrepreneur profiles, with different characteristics in terms of partner liability and tax regime. It is therefore crucial to select the legal form that best suits your professional objectives and personal situation.
The options may differ depending on whether you are a resident of Luxembourg, Belgium or Germany. It is therefore important to be aware of the tax and social security implications that the choice of legal form will have for shareholders or managers in Luxembourg and in the country of residence.
Drafting and validation of articles of association
A company’s articles of association are its founding document and define the rules governing both its internal and external operations. They must be drafted with care, in accordance with the applicable legal requirements. We can assist you in drafting, reviewing and validating this document, in collaboration with a solicitor if necessary.
Opening a business bank account
A business bank account must be opened before setting up a company in Luxembourg. This account is essential for separating business transactions from personal finances (if you are a sole trader) or in order to comply with the legal obligations involved in running a company. It also means that share capital can be blocked for the purpose of forming a company.
Establishment permit application
Before engaging in any commercial, craft or industrial activity in Luxembourg, you must apply for an establishment permit from the Ministry of the Economy. This authorisation is granted subject to proof of the competence and professional integrity of the manager responsible for day-to-day management, as well as the establishment of an appropriate infrastructure for the intended activity.
VAT number application, registration in the RBE
After the company has been set up and the establishment permit has been issued, further steps need to be taken, such as applying for VAT registration, registering with the Register of Beneficial Owners (RBE) and enrolling managers and employees with the Joint Social Security Centre (CCSS).
We offer comprehensive support throughout this process to help you to find the optimal legal and tax structure for you and your business project. Through our guidance, we can not only ensure that your business complies with all legal and administrative requirements in Luxembourg, but also that it has the appropriate structure based on your country of residence and your objectives.
Our experts are here to support you.
Erwin Schröder
After studying business management at HEC Liège, Erwin began his professional career in the reporting and accounting department of an international family-owned group with roots in the East Cantons of Belgium.
Simon Boskin
Simon began his professional career in 2003 at the tax consultancy firm FIDUNORD, after completing his studies in business management at the University of Liège and RWTH Aachen University.
Julia Veiders
Julia completed her studies in accounting and taxation in 2008 at Helmo Sainte Marie in Liège before beginning her professional career at Neoviaq.
She completed Cycle A and Cycle B courses in taxation in Luxembourg in order to further her knowledge of tax law. In 2015, she completed her training at the University of Luxembourg, gaining the title of “chartered accountant”.
Nicole Piront
Nicole graduated in economics from the HEC-ULg in Liège in 2007 before beginning her professional career at Neoviaq. She completed Cycle A and Cycle B training in taxation in Luxembourg in order to further her knowledge of tax law. In 2015, she obtained the title of “Chartered Accountant”from the University of Luxembourg.
Christoph Fank
After successfully completing his university studies in commercial sciences at HEC-ULg in Liège in 2006, Christoph took on his first professional role at NEOVIAQ. Christoph has completed a number of additional training courses over the years, including certification as a real estate agent, developer and property manager/co-ownership trustee in Luxembourg.
Stephan Kerff
After completing his training in accounting and a bridging programme at HEC (Liège), Stephan began his career at the SPF Finances, where he specialised in VAT. It was not long before he joined the Special Tax Inspectorate as part of a VAT fraud unit. During the first half of his career, he developed his technical knowledge of VAT and direct taxes by taking a cross-functional approach.
Ludovic Lo Presti
Ludovic began his professional career in 2003, in an accounting and auditing firm in Luxembourg City, after completing his studies in accounting and business management at the Haute Ecole Libre Mosane in Liège.
