Belgium company structures: at a glance

Options for registering companies in Belgium

As a central European nation and a founding member of the European Union, Belgium is positioned as a logistical hub for international business.

Its location at the intersection of Europe's important markets, including the UK, Germany, France and the Netherlands, provides access to a vast consumer base and supports efficient supply chain management.

Belgium offers international companies the following legal structures for establishing a local presence:

Private limited company (Besloten Vennootschap / Société à Responsabilité Limitée - BV/SRL)

• The private limited company in Belgium is the most common and flexible corporate structure, suitable for all enterprises.
• A key advantage is that this entity type does not require any Belgian national or resident to act as a shareholder or director.
• The entity is incorporated by a notarial deed executed before a Belgian public notary.

Branch office of a foreign company (Bijkantoor/Succursale)

• The Belgian branch operates as an extension of the foreign parent company and therefore does not have separate legal personality.
• Registration requires filing the parent company’s foundational documents and the decision to open the branch with the competent Belgian company court.
• The foreign head office retains full legal and financial liability for all the Belgian branch's operations.

Joint stock company (Naamloze Vennootschap/Société Anonyme - NV/SA)

• The Belgian joint stock company, also known as the public limited company is typically used by large organisations or those seeking to raise public capital.
• This entity type requires a significantly higher minimum capital contribution than the BV/SRL.
• The NV/SA is subject to the most stringent corporate governance, disclosure and regulatory standards, particularly if listed on Euronext Brussels.

To help you choose the right structure, we have created an ‘at a glance’ summary table for the common company types that outlines key differences in formation processes, requirements, and timelines. It serves as a valuable resource for foreign companies looking to setup or expand a business in Belgium.

Comparison of the common types of companies in Belgium

Information verified against Investment Agency of Wallonia

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Choosing the right business structure is crucial. Speak to our Belgium business setup experts today and get advice tailored to your plans.

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