Best New Business Formation Lawyers in Belgium

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Notaris Frank De Wilde
Gingelom, Belgium

Founded in 2011
English
Notaris Frank De Wilde, located in Gingelom, Belgium, has been serving the community since 1831. The firm specializes in notarial services, offering expertise in authenticating legal documents, real estate transactions, and estate planning. Their longstanding presence underscores a deep commitment...
Kortrijk, Belgium

Founded in 2012
2 people in their team
English
Advocatenkantoor Huysentruyt & Decaluwé specializes in business and civil law, offering seasoned counsel in Handels- en vennootschapsrecht, civil and commercial matters, and enforcement procedures. The firm supports entrepreneurs and individuals with strategic planning, contract drafting, and...
Leuven, Belgium

Founded in 2019
English
Impact Advocaten, established in February 2019, is Belgium's pioneering niche law firm dedicated to providing tailored legal services to not-for-profit associations, social businesses, and impact entrepreneurs. The firm offers comprehensive support throughout an organization's lifecycle, from...
Destexhe Régine
Modave, Belgium

English
Destexhe Régine is a distinguished law firm based in Huy, Belgium, with a rich heritage spanning three generations. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including civil law, family law, criminal law, commercial law, and real estate law. The firm's multidisciplinary approach...
Orban & Töller
Eupen, Belgium

Founded in 1977
English
Orban & Töller, established in 1977 in Eupen, Belgium, is a distinguished law firm offering comprehensive legal services across various domains. The firm's multilingual team is proficient in German and French, with capabilities in Dutch and English, ensuring effective communication with a diverse...
Huy, Belgium

Founded in 1991
English
Established in 1991, Andromède is a law firm located at 33, Chaussée de Liège in Huy, Belgium. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various disciplines, including civil law, criminal law, construction law, property law, contract law, and electoral law. With over three decades of...
Henneaux Daniel-Libralegis
Brussels, Belgium

Founded in 2017
English
Henneaux Daniel-Libralegis is a dynamic law firm based in Libramont-Chevigny, Belgium, offering comprehensive legal services to entrepreneurs, individuals, and public authorities. The firm is committed to delivering practical solutions across various branches of law, emphasizing independence and a...
Charleroi, Belgium

Founded in 1996
English
Panayotou & Partners is a Belgium based law firm that provides focused legal services to entrepreneurs and companies. Founded in 1996, the firm delivers representation in judicial proceedings as well as strategic advisory across a broad range of law, with each lawyer bringing a field-specific...

Founded in 2017
English
Cabinet d'avocats - Centrius Charleroi is a distinguished law firm in Belgium, comprising a team of 27 specialized attorneys. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various domains, including corporate law, tax law, labor law, criminal law, real estate law, and family law. Each...

Founded in 2012
11 people in their team
English
Everest Advocaten G&B Gent is a Belgian law firm focused on serving business clients with specialist legal teams based in Ghent and connected to offices in Antwerp and Brussels. The firm advises on complex commercial, regulatory and dispute-resolution matters, placing emphasis on domain-specific...
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About New Business Formation Law in Belgium

New Business Formation (NBF) in Belgium involves the legal and administrative processes required to create and register a new company. Belgium has a strategic location in Europe, a highly developed legal system, and offers various types of legal structures suited for different business needs. The typical forms for a legal entity include the Private Limited Company (BV/SRL), Public Limited Company (NV/SA), and the Cooperative Company (CV/SC), among others. Each form has distinct legal requirements regarding liability, capital, structure, and governance.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where involvements of a lawyer might be crucial in new business formation in Belgium:

  • Choosing the Appropriate Entity Type: Legal professionals can provide insights into the best structure for your business in terms of liability and tax implications.
  • Drafting Articles of Association: Formulating pivotal documents correctly can prevent future disputes and law complications.
  • Compliance with Local Regulations: Navigating through Belgian tax regulations, labor law, and sector-specific licensing.
  • Contractual Agreements: Crafting shareholder agreements, partnership contracts, and employment agreements requires legal expertise.
  • Intellectual Property (IP) Protection: Lawyers help in safeguarding business ideas, products, and branding through patents, trademarks, etc.

Local Laws Overview

The Belgian business environment is governed by a comprehensive legal framework that supports new ventures while regulating their operations. Here are some key legal aspects:

  • Business Registration: All businesses must register with the Belgian Crossroad Bank for Enterprises.
  • VAT and Taxation: Businesses in Belgium may need to register for VAT and comply with Belgian corporate taxation laws.
  • Employment Law: It is vital to adhere to Belgium’s labor laws and secure the correct work permits for employees.
  • Capital Requirements: Some entities like NV/SA have minimum capital requirements, while BV/SRL does not mandatorily.
  • Licensing and Permits: Depending on the business type and sector, additional licenses and permits may be essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common types of legal structures for businesses in Belgium?

The common types include the Private Limited Company (BV/SRL), Public Limited Company (NV/SA), and Cooperative Company (CV/SC).

2. Is there a minimum capital requirement for forming a company?

Yes, for instance, NV/SA requires a minimum capital of 61,500 EUR, while BV/SRL has no minimum capital requirement but must ensure adequate initial funding.

3. How long does it take to register a business in Belgium?

The process typically takes a few weeks, depending on the type of entity and the completeness of documentation.

4. What taxes do businesses in Belgium pay?

Businesses are subject to corporate income tax, and they may also need to register for VAT based on their operations.

5. Do I need to register for VAT?

If your business provides goods or services subject to VAT, registration is mandatory.

6. Can I start a business in Belgium as a foreigner?

Yes, foreigners can start businesses in Belgium, but they must comply with immigration and business requirements.

7. What are the key documents required for company formation?

Key documents include Articles of Association, appointment of the managing director(s), and proof of capital deposits.

8. Is it necessary to open a Belgian bank account for my business?

Yes, a Belgian bank account is generally required for depositing initial capital and conducting business operations.

9. Do I need a Belgian work permit to start a business?

Not for starting a business, but a work permit may be required for you or your staff if involved operationally.

10. How can I protect my business idea legally?

Legal protection includes registering trademarks, patents, and designs, drafting confidentiality agreements, etc.

Additional Resources

For more guidance, the following resources can be helpful:

  • The FPS Economy, SMEs, Self-employed and Energy: This governmental body provides useful resources and information on business registration and operations.
  • The Belgian Crossroad Bank for Enterprises: They manage the registration process of businesses in Belgium.
  • BECI - Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry: Gives support to entrepreneurs and companies.
  • Invest in Flanders/Walloons/Brussels: Regional investment agencies that provide tailored advice and support.

Next Steps

If you are considering forming a new business in Belgium and require legal assistance, follow these steps:

  1. Preliminary Research: Gather basic information about different business structures and their requirements.
  2. Consult a Business Formation Lawyer: Engage with a lawyer specializing in company formation in Belgium for a personalized consultation.
  3. Prepare Essential Documentation: Compile necessary documents with the guidance of your legal advisor.
  4. Register Your Business: Complete the registration process through the Belgian Crossroad Bank for Enterprises.
  5. Legal Compliance and Formalities: Ensure all regulatory, tax, and sector-specific requirements are satisfied.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Belgium through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including New Business Formation, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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