Starting a business in Belgium involves several steps and formalities. Here’s a general guide:
- Determine the Type of Business: First, decide on the type of business you want to open. It can be a sole proprietorship, a limited liability company (SPRL/BV), a public limited company (SA/NV), among others. Your choice will depend on your goals and needs.
- Business Registration: To register your business, you will need to contact the competent authorities. Depending on the type of business and region (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels), you should contact the relevant bodies and provide the necessary documents.
- Business Plan: Prepare a business plan, including information about your activity, financial forecasts, target audience, and marketing strategy. This document may be required for registration and attracting investments.
- Define Structure and Articles of Association: If you are opening a company, you will need to define the legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, limited liability company, etc.) and create articles of association, which will define the internal rules of the company.
- Opening a Bank Account: Open a bank account for your company. This may require providing the articles of association and other documents, as well as visiting the bank in person.
- Registration with the Tax Authorities: You will need to register your business with the Belgian tax authorities and obtain a VAT (Value Added Tax) number if your business is obliged to pay VAT.
- Registration with Social Security: If you hire employees, you will need to register your company with the social security service (ONSS/RSZ) to pay social contributions.
- Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Permits: Depending on your business activity, specific licenses or permits may be required. Find out the requirements for your industry and region.
- Opening an Office and Hiring Staff: If necessary, rent office space and start hiring employees.
- Keep Track of Taxes and Accounting: Continuously monitor your financial accounting and your tax obligations.
Seek professional advice and assistance from lawyers or business consultants to facilitate the registration process and compliance with all necessary norms and rules. Belgian authorities also provide information and resources for entrepreneurs, which can help you in this process.
