What are the main types of entities in Liechtenstein?
The main types of companies that can be incorporated by an entrepreneur who wants to open a company in Liechtenstein in 2026 are:
- the limited liability company (also known as GmbH), which is the most employed type of legal entity;
- the company limited by shares (Aktiengesellschaft or AG), which is the equivalent of a public company in other countries;
- the foundation (Stiftung), which is very sought after due to the many tax advantages it offers;
- the establishment (Anstalt) – This is a unique business form which can be created in Liechtenstein;
- the trust enterprise, which is also a specific business form available in Liechtenstein.
What are the available forms for corporate shareholders?
Foreign companies seeking to establish a business form in Liechtenstein will choose the structure in accordance with their objectives, and the most chosen business forms are the subsidiary and the branch. However, they can also opt for representative offices, which do not enable commercial undertakings.
What are the steps to open a company in Liechtenstein in 2026?
Here are the company formation steps you need to respect in Liechtenstein:
- business name reservation;
- compliance requirements check;
- documents drafting and filing with the Companies Register;
- bank account opening (we can make recommendations in this sense);
- tax registration;
- licensing, which depends on the type of activity carried out.
Please note that for representation, we will need a power of attorney from the shareholder.
You can also find out from the video below what the main steps for setting up a company in Liechtenstein are:
What are the documents to submit for company registration in Liechtenstein?
Foreign entrepreneurs interested in opening companies in Liechtenstein will be required to submit a set of documents with the Trade Register. These documents are:
- the shareholders’ identification papers, which must be notarized;
- proof of having a registered address in Liechtenstein;
- the company’s memorandum and articles of association, which must be drafted and notarized;
- information about the company’s manager or managers, such as their identification papers and qualification;
- the bank reference indicating the share capital was deposited in the Liechtenstein bank.
What are the post-incorporation steps to complete?
If the company has an annual turnover above EUR100,000, it must also register for VAT. Social services must also be notified if the company plans to hire personnel. Certain types of businesses will have to perform an additional step. Companies that operate in law, health, finance, and other industries will need to apply for a business license.
What are the main requirements to consider when starting a business in Liechtenstein in 2026?
Here are the conditions to respect when setting up a Liechtenstein company:
- at least one shareholder is required when opening a private limited liability company, while a minimum of 2 shareholders are required for a public limited company;
- both business forms require a Liechtenstein registered address;
- in terms of director requirements, at least one director who is a Liechtenstein or EEA resident must be appointed;
- at least one secretary must also be appointed.
Do I need a resident director?
Yes, but you can use nominee services. Please note that at least two nominee directors must be appointed for a Liechtenstein company. Our local specialists can help in this matter.
What is the minimum share capital to register a company in Liechtenstein?
You must deposit:
- CHF 10,000 for a private limited company;
- CHF 50,000 for a public limited company.
The capital can also be deposited in EUR or USD.
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Liechtenstein?
After the name approval, it takes around 10 working days for the documents to be processed and the Certificate of Registration to be issued.
What are the fees for company registration in Liechtenstein in 2026?
Our fees include:
- EUR 8,500 for complete registration of a private limited liability company;
- EUR 2,800 for corporate bank account opening;
- registered office services for EUR 575 per month.
In addition to these, we can also provide corporate compliance at EUR2,300 per year.
With respect to the government fees for company incorporation, they range from CHF 1,200 to CHF 1,700, depending on the type of business chosen.
If you are interested in setting up a company in Liechtenstein or other company formation services, you may contact our specialists in company incorporation.