Founding process
Liechtenstein's strong entrepreneurship of Liechtenstein is already evident in the founding process. Short distances to contact persons and a clear tax law make the foundation process simple and is explained in 6 steps. In principle, it is possible for all persons, regardless of their nationality, to found a company.
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Step 1
Type of legal entiry
⟶From 16 possible legal forms choose the most suitable one for your company.
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Step 2
Information sheet
⟶Read the information sheets on the chosen legal form and on the new registration.
- The company limited by shares (AG)
- Company with limited liability (GmbH)
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Step 3
Corporate name
⟶Determine the desired company name and check it in the Company Index (German only) for availability and legality.
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Step 4
Formation documents
⟶Gather the following incorporation documents:
The checklist for the choosen legal form provides an overview of the required documents.
- The company limited by shares (AG)
- Company with limited liability (GmbH)
- Sole proprietorship
- The Establishment
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Step 5
Business licence
⟶Register a trade (simple trade) or obtain a trade licence (qualified trade). Special licences must be obtained for certain activities.
Requirement is the examination of the trade type:
a. Simple trade = digital business registration (German only), no business licence required. The following documents must be gathered:
- Rental agreement or proof of ownership of the business premises and floor plan
- Criminal record extract*
- Extract from the garnishment register*
- Extract from the commercial register (to be sent to the Office of Economic Affairs)
- ID or passport copy
- Confirmation of residence (for applicants with foreign citizenship)
b. Qualified trade = business licence required. In addition to the above documents:
- Proof of qualification or diplomas
- Employment contract of the managing director
c. Special trade = Special licence required.
(*Residents: to be applied for in person at the Office of Justice / Foreigners: equivalence to be applied for in the respective home country)
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Step 6
Commercial Register
⟶If necessary or wished, enter the company in the Commercial Register by registration letter (German sample).
The Entrepreneur Service at the Office of Economic Affairs is your partner for setting up and relocating companies as well as all procedures related to your entrepreneurial projects.
Visitor address: Haus der Wirtschaft
Poststrasse 1, 9494 Schaan