Business Setup Services in Europe
Navigate company formation across Europe with expert guidance on entity types, legal requirements, and market entry strategies. Our business setup services help entrepreneurs and SMEs establish their operations efficiently and compliantly.
Establishing Your Business in Europe
Setting up a business in Europe opens up a market of 450+ million consumers, but navigating the various legal requirements and registration processes across different countries can be complex. Our business setup services guide you through the entire journey.
Whether you're a startup founder, an established business looking to expand, or an entrepreneur exploring new markets, we provide tailored solutions that align with your business goals and compliance requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What business structures are available for company formation in Europe?
The most common business structures in Europe include Private Limited Companies (Ltd/GmbH/BV), Public Limited Companies (PLC/AG/NV), Sole Proprietorships, and Branches of foreign companies. Each structure offers different liability protection, tax implications, and complexity levels. Read this article comparing the different legal entities throughout Europe.
How long does it take to set up a company in Europe?
Timeframes vary by country, ranging from just a few days in Estonia to a few weeks on average in most Western and Northern European countries. When considering the timeframe, you should be looking at the time it takes for the company to be fully operational. In most cases that will include the company formation, tax/vat number and bank account setup.
What documents are needed for company registration in Europe?
Typically required documents include proof of identity for all directors and shareholders, articles of association, proof of registered address, and initial share capital confirmation. Some countries may require additional documentation for specific business types.
Do I need to be physically present to form a company?
In most European countries, it's possible to establish a company remotely using powers of attorney. However, some countries require in-person verification for banking relationships or specific regulated activities.
What's the minimum capital requirement?
Capital requirements vary widely: as low as €0.01 in the Netherlands, €2,500 in Estonia, and NOK 30,000 in Norway. Some countries allow capital to be deposited and then used for business operations.
What ongoing compliance obligations will my company have?
Companies typically need to file annual accounts, tax returns, and maintain proper corporate records. Requirements vary by country, with some jurisdictions requiring monthly or quarterly VAT filings and annual corporate governance statements.
Can I open a business bank account remotely?
While some European banks offer remote account opening, many still require at least one in-person meeting. Digital banks and EMIs (Electronic Money Institutions) increasingly offer business banking solutions with fully remote setup processes.
What are the tax implications of different European jurisdictions?
Corporate tax rates range from 9% in Hungary to around 31% in France. Consider not just headline rates but also available tax incentives, VAT thresholds, dividend taxation, and any special tax regimes for certain business activities or sectors.
Business Setup by Country
| Country | Formation Time | Min. Capital | Local Director |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netherlands | 3-5 days | €0.01 | Not required |
| Norway | 5-7 days | NOK 30,000 | Not required |
| Sweden | 7-10 days | SEK 25,000 | Not required |
| Denmark | 3-5 days | DKK 40,000 | Not required |
| Finland | 5-7 days | €2,500 | Not required |
| Ireland | 5-10 days | €1 | One EEA resident |
| Germany | 7-14 days | €25,000 (GmbH) | Not required |
| France | 10-15 days | €1 (SAS) | Not required |
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Metic
Metic, headquartered in Helsinki, offers comprehensive business relocation and immigration services to…
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