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6 Birkenweg
Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Vaduz, Liechtenstein
6 Birkenweg
Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Vaduz, Liechtenstein
COMPANY FORMATION in Liechtenstein
Dari Podhur, Counsel
1 April, 2025
Table of Content
- Introduction to Liechtenstein company formation
- Business environment and legal background
- Types of companies in Liechtenstein
- Liechtenstein LLC formation
- Liechtenstein AG incorporation
- Company formation requirements
- Company formation process
- Company formation cost
- Taxation and compliance
- Benefits of a Liechtenstein business setup
- International status and compliance
- Conclusion
- Official resources and legal links
A Strategic Gateway to Europe and Beyond
In the heart of Europe, the Principality of Liechtenstein stands as a discreet yet powerful jurisdiction for international business. With its favorable tax environment, stable political system, and robust financial services, Liechtenstein company formation has become an attractive option for entrepreneurs, investors, and holding structures.
This guide explores everything you need to know about Liechtenstein company registration—from company types and requirements to timelines, costs, and legal references. Whether you’re considering Liechtenstein LLC formation or Liechtenstein AG incorporation, this resource offers a clear, SEO-optimized look into the process.
This guide explores everything you need to know about Liechtenstein company registration—from company types and requirements to timelines, costs, and legal references. Whether you’re considering Liechtenstein LLC formation or Liechtenstein AG incorporation, this resource offers a clear, SEO-optimized look into the process.
Understanding the Liechtenstein Business Environment
Liechtenstein’s economy is highly developed and closely integrated with both Switzerland and the European Economic Area (EEA). Thanks to a customs and currency union with Switzerland and full EEA membership, companies in Liechtenstein enjoy access to EU markets while maintaining Swiss-style stability.
Liechtenstein corporate law is governed by the Persons and Companies Act (Personen- und Gesellschaftsrecht – PGR), accessible at the official legal portal: https://www.gesetze.li/konso/1926010000
Liechtenstein corporate law is governed by the Persons and Companies Act (Personen- und Gesellschaftsrecht – PGR), accessible at the official legal portal: https://www.gesetze.li/konso/1926010000
Key Company Types in Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein company types include several structures tailored to business and asset protection needs:
- Aktiengesellschaft (AG) – Public Limited Company
- Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH or LLC) – Limited Liability Company
- Establishment (Anstalt) – A unique hybrid legal form
- Foundation (Stiftung) – Often used for asset protection or charitable purposes
- Trusts – Common in private wealth planning
Liechtenstein LLC Formation
Liechtenstein LLC formation (GmbH) is ideal for small to medium-sized enterprises. The minimum share capital is CHF 10,000, and one or more shareholders are required. Liability is limited to the value of the contributed capital.
An LLC in Liechtenstein can be fully foreign-owned and offers flexibility in structuring internal governance. It is also one of the most popular formats for foreign entrepreneurs seeking a simplified Liechtenstein business setup.
Liechtenstein AG Incorporation
Liechtenstein AG incorporation (Aktiengesellschaft) is suited for larger businesses or those intending to raise capital publicly. The minimum share capital is CHF 50,000, and the company must appoint a board of directors. Shares can be bearer or registered.
This format is often used for financial services, holding companies, and international trading operations.
More on company law and incorporation rules: https://www.llv.li – Liechtenstein National Administration
This format is often used for financial services, holding companies, and international trading operations.
More on company law and incorporation rules: https://www.llv.li – Liechtenstein National Administration
Liechtenstein Company Formation Requirements
To complete a successful Liechtenstein company formation, the following elements are generally required:
The Liechtenstein Commercial Register is the official body for company entries: https://www.oera.li
- Legal entity name approval
- Articles of Association
- Registered office in Liechtenstein
- Appointment of directors/managers
- Proof of minimum capital (depending on company type)
- Notarial deed of incorporation
The Liechtenstein Commercial Register is the official body for company entries: https://www.oera.li
The Liechtenstein Company Formation Process
The Liechtenstein company formation process is fast and efficient, typically taking 5–10 working days from submission.
Digital services also support e-submissions and secure communication with public offices.
- Choose the appropriate Liechtenstein company type
- Submit required documentation for review
- Deposit share capital to a Liechtenstein bank
- Execute notarized founding documents
- File with the Liechtenstein Commercial Register
Digital services also support e-submissions and secure communication with public offices.
Liechtenstein Company Formation Cost
Costs vary depending on the structure, service provider, and whether legal or fiduciary services are required. On average:
- LLC formation: CHF 5,000–10,000 (including legal fees)
- AG incorporation: CHF 8,000–15,000
- Annual maintenance (legal address, compliance): CHF 3,000–7,000
Taxation and Ongoing Compliance
Liechtenstein applies a flat corporate income tax rate of 12.5%. There is no capital gains tax or withholding tax on dividends in most cases.
Companies must file annual financial statements and are subject to minimal bureaucracy. The Financial Market Authority (FMA) oversees financial compliance and AML regulation: https://www.fma-li.li
Liechtenstein’s legal system is recognized for being investor-friendly while complying with OECD and EU standards.
Companies must file annual financial statements and are subject to minimal bureaucracy. The Financial Market Authority (FMA) oversees financial compliance and AML regulation: https://www.fma-li.li
Liechtenstein’s legal system is recognized for being investor-friendly while complying with OECD and EU standards.
Advantages of Liechtenstein Business Setup
- Full foreign ownership allowed
- Low and predictable taxes
- High level of legal and banking confidentiality
- Access to Swiss and EU markets
- Strong reputation in financial and asset protection services
International Recognition and Compliance
Liechtenstein is a member of:
- European Economic Area (EEA)
- European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
- Schengen Area (for immigration coordination)
- OECD Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information
Conclusion: A Premier Location for Company Formation
Whether your goal is asset protection, European market access, or an efficient tax framework, Liechtenstein company formation offers a robust and efficient solution. From choosing the right Liechtenstein company types to understanding the company formation process, investors are supported by a high-quality legal and financial infrastructure.
With reasonable Liechtenstein company formation costs and a clear legal pathway, the country continues to attract those looking for a reliable and reputable business base in Europe.
With reasonable Liechtenstein company formation costs and a clear legal pathway, the country continues to attract those looking for a reliable and reputable business base in Europe.
Liechtenstein company formation is an attractive option for entrepreneurs and investors seeking a stable, business-friendly environment in the heart of Europe. From selecting the optimal legal form to handling registration and compliance, our experts will support you at every stage.
📩 Contact us today to start your Liechtenstein company formation journey. We'll guide you through the full process, assign a dedicated consultant, and provide a tailored presentation covering all legal, tax, and administrative aspects of setting up a business in Liechtenstein.
📩 Contact us today to start your Liechtenstein company formation journey. We'll guide you through the full process, assign a dedicated consultant, and provide a tailored presentation covering all legal, tax, and administrative aspects of setting up a business in Liechtenstein.
Questions and Answers
Liechtenstein company formation refers to setting up a legal business entity in Liechtenstein. It is popular for its low taxes, EU/Swiss market access, and strong asset protection laws.
The Liechtenstein company formation process includes name approval, preparing documents, depositing share capital, notarization, and registration with the Commercial Register.
Liechtenstein company registration is handled through the official registry at www.oera.li. It includes submitting foundational documents and proof of capital.
Liechtenstein company types include the AG, LLC (GmbH), Establishment (Anstalt), Foundation (Stiftung), and Trusts, each with different business or asset protection purposes.
Liechtenstein LLC formation requires a minimum capital of CHF 10,000, one or more shareholders, and submission of articles of association.
Liechtenstein AG incorporation is designed for public or larger private companies with a minimum capital of CHF 50,000, commonly used for finance and holdings.
Liechtenstein company formation requirements include an approved name, a registered office in the country, founding documents, appointed directors, and capital deposit.
Liechtenstein company formation cost varies by structure. Typically, it ranges from CHF 5,000 to CHF 15,000, including legal, registration, and fiduciary fees.
A Liechtenstein business setup offers foreign ownership, tax advantages, confidentiality, and a stable legal system with cross-border benefits.
Yes, Liechtenstein corporate law allows full foreign ownership, flexible governance, and is harmonized with EEA and Swiss regulations, making it ideal for international investors.