Business in Liechtenstein: A Unique Opportunity for Entrepreneurs and Wealth Owners
Starting a business in Liechtenstein is not the most conventional choice for a foreign entrepreneur. Yet for those seeking tax optimisation, jurisdictional diversification, and secure asset structuring, this microstate offers compelling advantages.
Why Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein is a small principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria, covering just 160 square kilometres. With a population of around 39,000 people—of whom only about 65% hold citizenship—and a per capita income of approximately USD 140,000, it ranks among the wealthiest countries in the world.
While it lacks natural resources beyond stone, the country's economy thrives on precision manufacturing, technological exports, and, most notably, a robust financial sector offering private banking, asset management, family offices, trusts and foundations.

What kind of business you can open in Liechtenstein?

If you already live in Liechtenstein or within 50 km of its capital, Vaduz, you may qualify as a Grenzgänger (cross-border commuter) and register as a self-employed entrepreneur. This allows you to operate almost any type of service-based business, such as:
  • Beauty salons
  • Grocery stores
  • Cleaning companies
  • Personal services tailored to one of the world's wealthiest populations
This path is particularly suited to small-scale businesses that cater to the local community.

Can Foreigners Open a Business in Liechtenstein?

If you're a foreign national with no existing ties to the principality—no relatives, no employment history, etc.—your best option is to seek employment through a local company.

This may lead to residency in Liechtenstein, although the process of obtaining permanent residence or citizenship is lengthy (typically requiring 30 years of residence and renunciation of prior citizenship).

Liechtenstein: A Haven for Wealth Protection and Corporate Structuring

For high-net-worth individuals and international entrepreneurs, Liechtenstein is one of the most advantageous jurisdictions in Europe. It offers:
  • Corporate tax rate of just 12.5%
  • Strong legal frameworks for trusts and foundations
  • High levels of confidentiality and asset protection
  • Access to Swiss and EU financial markets
One unique structure available here is the Liechtenstein Anstalt—a hybrid between a company and a foundation. It has no shareholders, only beneficiaries, making it ideal for crypto and blockchain businesses, private wealth structures, and investment vehicles.

Costs and Comparisons

While the costs of setting up and maintaining companies, trusts, or foundations in Liechtenstein are approximately 50% higher than in Switzerland, this is offset by the jurisdiction’s legal certainty, flexibility, and international reputation for stability and discretion.
Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation!
If you’re considering setting up a company in Liechtenstein, creating a trust or foundation, or exploring tax-efficient structures for wealth preservation, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your goals and receive tailored guidance.
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USEFUL LINKS

Business in Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein Bank Account Opening

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