Starting a business in Belgium

Last updated: March 5, 2026

Starting a Business in Belgium: A Practical Guide for Dutch Emigrants

Belgium is an attractive destination for Dutch entrepreneurs due to its central location in Europe, multilingual population, and strong economy. However, starting a business here requires understanding local rules, costs, and procedures. This guide provides a clear overview tailored for Dutch nationals planning to emigrate and launch a business in Belgium.

Business Structures and Registration

Types of Business Entities

The most common legal forms for small to medium businesses in Belgium are:

Sole Proprietorship (Eenmanszaak / Entreprise individuelle): Simple but unlimited personal liability.
Private Limited Liability Company (BV / SPRL): Limited liability, suitable for small to medium enterprises.
Public Limited Company (NV / SA): For larger companies, requires minimum capital.
Partnerships (VOF / SNC): Shared liability, less common for new entrepreneurs.

For most emigrants, the BV (Besloten Vennootschap) is recommended due to limited liability and flexibility.

Registration Steps

Choose a Business Name: Must be unique and not misleading.
Draft Articles of Association: Required for BV and NV forms; can be standardized or customized.
Deposit Capital: For a BV, a minimum capital of €0.01 is allowed as of 2019 reforms, but sufficient capital to cover initial costs is practical.
Notary Deed: For BV and NV, the deed of incorporation must be notarized.
Register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (Kruispuntbank van Ondernemingen - KBO): Obtain a company number (similar to VAT number).
Register for VAT: Apply via the Belgian VAT administration.
Join a Social Insurance Fund: Mandatory for self-employed persons.
Open a Business Bank Account: For capital deposit and transactions.

The entire registration process takes about 1-2 weeks if all documents are in order.

Official portal: Belgian Business Register

Costs and Fees

Notary fees: €500 - €1,500 depending on complexity.
Registration fee (KBO): Approximately €90.
VAT registration: Free but mandatory for taxable activities.
Social security contributions: Around 20.5% of the declared income, minimum €745/year.
Accounting and bookkeeping: €1,000 - €3,000 per year depending on business size.
Business insurance: Varies widely; budget €300-€1,000 annually.
Other costs: Office rental, permits (if applicable), website, marketing.

Legal and Tax Considerations

Taxes

Corporate Income Tax: Standard rate 25% (as of 2023).
VAT: Standard rate 21%, reduced rates 6% or 12% for certain goods/services.
Personal Income Tax: If sole proprietor or drawing salary from BV, progressive rates up to 50%.
Social Security: Mandatory contributions for self-employed and employees.

Accounting and Reporting

Belgian law requires annual accounts to be filed in accordance with Belgian GAAP. SMEs can use simplified reporting but must keep detailed records.

Employment Rules

If you plan to hire employees:

Register with the National Social Security Office (RSZ/ONSS).
Comply with labor laws regarding contracts, wages, working hours, and benefits.
Obtain mandatory insurance (work accidents, professional liability).

Practical Tips for Dutch Emigrants

Language: Dutch is spoken in Flanders; French in Wallonia; Brussels is bilingual. Choose your business location accordingly.
Use a local accountant: Belgian tax law is complex; a professional will save time and money.
Banking: Belgian banks require proof of identity, residence, and business registration.
Social security: Dutch nationals moving to Belgium must deregister from Dutch social security and register with Belgian authorities.
Permits: EU citizens don’t need work permits but must register with the local municipality within 8 days of arrival.
Networking: Join local chambers of commerce or business associations to build contacts.

Common Mistakes

Ignoring legal entity choice: Starting as a sole proprietor without realizing unlimited liability risks.
Underestimating social security obligations: Self-employed contributions are mandatory and can be costly.
Delaying registration: Operating without a KBO number or VAT registration can lead to fines.
Poor financial planning: Not budgeting for accounting, insurance, and initial costs.
Neglecting language differences: Not using professional translation/local advice can cause misunderstandings.
Assuming Dutch and Belgian systems are identical: Tax and labor laws differ significantly despite geographic proximity.
Skipping permits or registrations: Some business activities require additional licenses or certifications.

Useful Official Links

By following these steps and precautions, Dutch emigrants can efficiently establish a compliant and successful business in Belgium.

Starting a business in Belgium