As the de facto capital of the European Union and a major hub for global trade and diplomacy, Brussels offers exceptional opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to establish a company in Belgium. With a strong economy, international talent pool, and access to EU institutions, Brussels is an attractive location for both startups and established foreign businesses. Here’s how to register your company and what to expect.
1. Choosing the Right Legal Form for Your Belgian Company
Belgium offers several types of corporate structures. Here are the most relevant legal forms for foreign investors:
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BV / SRL (Besloten Vennootschap / Société à Responsabilité Limitée)
Equivalent to a private limited liability company. It is the most popular form for both local and foreign entrepreneurs. No minimum capital requirement, but sufficient startup capital must be demonstrated. -
NV / SA (Naamloze Vennootschap / Société Anonyme)
Suitable for large businesses or companies planning to go public. Requires a minimum share capital of €61,500. -
VOF / SNC (Vennootschap Onder Firma / Société en Nom Collectif)
General partnership with unlimited liability for all partners. Less common for foreign investors. -
CommV / SComm (Commanditaire Vennootschap / Société en Commandite)
Limited partnership with general and limited partners. Often used in investment structures.
For most foreign founders, the BV/SRL is ideal due to its flexibility and limited liability structure.
2. Can a Non-Resident Be a Director of a Belgian Company?
Yes, non-residents can be appointed as directors of Belgian companies. There are no nationality or residency restrictions, but certain formalities must be respected:
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Directors must have a Belgian national registry number or BIS number, which is available to foreigners through proper registration.
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A Belgian registered office address is mandatory, and many companies use a domiciliation service.
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It is recommended (but not legally required) to appoint a local representative or director for ease of administration and tax residency validation.
3. How to Register Your Belgian Company
The standard process to register a Belgian company includes:
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Drafting the Articles of Association – Usually done in collaboration with a Belgian notary for BV/SRL and NV/SA.
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Depositing initial capital – Into a Belgian bank account, with proof submitted to the notary.
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Signing incorporation deed – For BV/SRL and NV/SA, this must be executed before a notary.
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Registering with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE/KBO) – The unique company number is issued.
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Obtaining VAT and social security registrations – With SPF Finances and NSSO respectively.
In most cases, the process takes 1–2 weeks after all documentation is complete.
4. Tax Regime for a Belgian Company
Belgium has a relatively straightforward corporate tax regime:
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Corporate Income Tax (CIT): Standard rate is 25%
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Reduced CIT: 20% on the first €100,000 for qualifying SMEs
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Withholding tax on dividends: 30% (reduced by EU directives or tax treaties)
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VAT: Standard rate is 21%, with lower rates for specific goods/services
Belgium has over 100 double taxation treaties, making it favorable for holding and trading activities.
Damalion Can Assist You in Registering Your Belgian Company
Navigating Belgian corporate law, tax regulations, and administration can be complex—especially for non-residents. Damalion provides end-to-end support to help you choose the right legal form, handle notarial procedures, register with the BCE/KBO, and maintain compliance.
If you’re planning to launch your company in Brussels, contact Damalion to ensure a smooth, professional, and legally compliant setup process.
10 top tourist spots perfect for a 24‑hour business trip to Brussels
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Grand Place (Grote Markt) – The iconic UNESCO World Heritage square surrounded by ornate guild houses and the Town Hall.
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Brussels Town Hall – Located on Grand Place, this Gothic marvel offers a glimpse into medieval civic life.
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Atomium – A futuristic, 102 m-high landmark from Expo 58 featuring panoramic views and exhibitions.
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Royal Palace of Brussels – The official palace in front of Brussels Park, open seasonally with grand interiors.
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Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula – A stunning Brabantine Gothic cathedral hosting royal ceremonies.
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Mini-Europe – A charming miniature park showcasing Europe’s most famous structures in 1:25 scale.
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Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium – One of Europe’s best, with Old Masters, Modern Art, the Magritte Museum, and more.
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Belgian Comic Strip Center – Celebrating Belgian comic art, from Tintin to the Smurfs, in an art nouveau landmark.
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Bozar – Centre for Fine Arts – A premier cultural venue for exhibitions, music, theater, and cinema.
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Parc du Cinquantenaire & Cinquantenaire Museums – A majestic arch and green space flanked by excellent museums like ARKEOS and Autoworld.
Tips for 24 Hours
Morning: Begin at Grand Place, including the Gothic Town Hall, then make your way to Cathedral St. Michael & Gudula.
Midday: Head to Bozar or the Fine Arts Museums for a cultural fix, followed by lunch near Mini‑Europe on the Heysel plateau.
Afternoon: Explore Atomium, and if you have time, visit the Cinquantenaire and its museums.
Evening: End your day at the Royal Palace (seasonal opening) or enjoy dinner in the Comic Strip Center neighborhood.