Setting Up A Company In Liechtenstein: Key Steps

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Liechtenstein, a small principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria, offers an attractive framework for business creation thanks to its favorable taxation and political and economic stability. However, the process of establishing a company in this country requires following specific administrative steps. Here is a detailed guide to the procedures needed to bring your entrepreneurial project to life in Liechtenstein.

Key Steps to Launch Your Business in Liechtenstein

Establishing a company in Liechtenstein involves several essential administrative procedures:

1. Choose Your Company’s Legal Structure

Liechtenstein offers various legal structures, with the most common being: – Public Limited Company (Aktiengesellschaft or AG) – Limited Liability Company (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung or GmbH) – Establishment (Anstalt) – Foundation (Stiftung)

Each legal structure has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of liability, taxation, and management. It is recommended to consult a local lawyer or accountant to choose the structure best suited to your project.

2. Reserve Your Company Name

You must verify the availability of your chosen company name with the Liechtenstein Commercial Register (Handelsregister). The name must be unique and not cause confusion with existing companies.

3. Prepare the Company’s Articles of Association

The articles of association must be drafted in German and contain essential information about your company, such as its business purpose, capital, management bodies, etc. They must be authenticated by a Liechtenstein notary.

4. Open a Bank Account

It is necessary to open a bank account in Liechtenstein to deposit your company’s share capital. The minimum amount varies depending on the chosen legal structure.

5. Register with the Commercial Register

Registration with the Commercial Register formalizes the creation of your company. It must be completed within 30 days of signing the articles of association.

6. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on your industry, you may need to obtain specific licenses or permits from the relevant authorities.

Essential Documents: The Passport for Your Liechtenstein Company

The documents required to establish a company in Liechtenstein vary depending on the chosen legal structure. Here is a list of the main documents generally required:

For a Public Limited Company (AG): – Articles of association authenticated by a notary – Minutes of the constitutive meeting – Declaration of acceptance by directors – Proof of share capital deposit – Share certificates – Signature specimen of persons authorized to represent the company

For a Limited Liability Company (GmbH): – Articles of association authenticated by a notary – List of partners with their respective shares – Appointment of managers – Proof of share capital deposit – Signature specimen of managers

For an Establishment (Anstalt): – Articles of establishment authenticated by a notary – Appointment of management bodies – Proof of endowment capital deposit – Signature specimen of persons authorized to represent the establishment

For a Foundation (Stiftung): – Foundation deed authenticated by a notary – Foundation regulations (optional but recommended) – Appointment of the foundation council – Proof of endowment capital deposit – Signature specimen of foundation council members

Timelines and Costs: Plan Your Time and Financial Budget

Establishing a company in Liechtenstein can take between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of your structure and how quickly you provide the necessary documents.

Regarding costs, they vary depending on the chosen legal structure and share capital. As a guideline: – Notary fees: between 1,000 and 5,000 CHF – Commercial Register registration fees: approximately 700 CHF – Minimum share capital: – AG: 50,000 CHF – GmbH: 30,000 CHF – Anstalt: 30,000 CHF – Stiftung: no legal minimum, but generally at least 30,000 CHF

Expert Tips for a Smooth Setup

To facilitate your company formation process in Liechtenstein, here are some recommendations:

– Get assistance from a local lawyer or accountant familiar with Liechtenstein legislation. – Carefully prepare all your documents before starting the official procedures. – Anticipate timelines, especially for opening the bank account which may take time due to strict anti-money laundering checks. – Ensure you fully understand your tax and reporting obligations once your company is established. – Consider the option of hiring a local fiduciary agent to manage the administrative aspects of your company.