There are many jurisdictions for company formation in Europe. You can start a company in almost any country across Europe as long as you adhere to their rules of company formation. Most of these countries will have unique rules for company formation that are different from other nations. Company registration in Cyprus could be totally different from company registration in Gibraltar.
However, in this article, you will learn of the top three jurisdictions in Europe where you can start a company. From the guide, you will learn about the benefits of forming your company in these top countries. If you are looking for company registration abroad tips then this guide is for you.
Company Registration in the United Kingdom
The UK is a significant trade hub across Europe. It is among the leading business centers in Europe. In fact, the UK alone attracts almost 35% of all the foreign investment all over Europe. The jurisdiction has an open economy and offers among the lowest tax rates.
The United Kingdom has several large companies’ headquarters, and it offers a high-quality workforce. The country also has ethnic and cultural diversity, endless business opportunities, and access to innovative sectors and high technology.
The UK is ranked as among the few countries where starting and operating a business is so easy, meaning you can start a company here without any lengthy formalities. Business expenses in the UK are quite low, meaning any business can thrive here.
The UK legal system may be highly regulated, but it is tailored to present viable opportunities, and business needs to business owners for growth. The UK was thought to collapse due to Brexit, but the economy has remained adamant and stable for the business environment.
Foreign investments are highly welcomed in the UK as their economy is dependent on investments. You can expect them to have even more incentives for the investors.
Legal Entities in the UK
- Limited companies – this could either be a public limited company or a private limited company. The private limited company, however, is more prevalent in the UK. It can be set up by one shareholder or more with no maximum or minimum issued or authorized share capital. A public limited company has at least two directors and two shareholders. The minimum share capital should be £50,000.
- Partnerships – are divided into a limited liability partnership or a limited partnership. Limited partnerships will be formed by one limited partner and one general partner. LLPs are created by two or more partners who are not liable for the debts of the business.
- Branches – these are overseas companies opening up offices in the UK rather than incorporating a company.
- Sole traders – it is the simplest form of business that are owner-managed. The owner is responsible for any business debts that may arise.
Company Formation in Cyprus
The Republic of Cyprus offers a fascinating quality of life. It is a Mediterranean country that presents attractive and viable business opportunities. The country is increasingly becoming an appealing destination for the growth and nourishment of businesses owing to several factors.
Cyprus has highly-skilled employees, favorable tax regimes, and cost-effective operation and registration of services. The nation also offers tax benefits for the high net-worth individuals and high-earning managers.
Types of Legal Companies You Can Set Up in Cyprus
Limited Liability Company – it is the most common legal entity, and it could be either a private or public company. The public limited liability company in Cyprus should have a minimum of seven members. The capital requirement for this type of company must be EUR 25,629. For the private limited liability firm, there must be 50 members, and no minimum capital is required.
- Partnerships – In the Republic of Cyprus, you could start three different types of companies. They include limited partnerships, general partnerships, and limited liability partnerships.
- Sole proprietorship – This is where you start your business as the sole owner and manage it all alone.
- Trusts – This kind of entities are typically formed for international tax planning purposes. They are not created for business ventures.
- Branch – You can start a subsidiary of a foreign company. You will not be questioned about the authorized capital.
How to Register for a Company Name
Before an entity is fully registered, the company name must be first approved. The Department of Registrar of Companies and Official Receiver is responsible for approving company names. You (applicant) are required to submit to three names that you propose as your company name, highlighting your preferred choice.
Within ten business days, the company name approval will be processed. After this, the name is reserved, and you are given six months to submit all the necessary documents required to set up a company.
Company Registration in Gibraltar
Gibraltar is an independent British overseas territory. It is a perfect investment location with low-tax jurisdiction, developed business infrastructure, a highly-skilled workforce, and competitive operating costs.
The top business activities in the country include tourism, financial services, online gaming, and shipping.
Legal Entities for Incorporation in Gibraltar
Citizens and foreign companies may register the following types of businesses:
- The limited company by shares – it is a separate legal entity that could either be private or public. The limited liability has it that shareholders will not be responsible for any liabilities or company debts beyond their unpaid issued share capital.
- The limited company by guarantee – this form of company is a practice mostly by non-profit organizations. Usually, there are no shareholders or share capital, and several or one guarantor owns the company. These guarantors will offer a fixed amount of money during the insolvency of the business.
- Trusts – trusts are very common in this jurisdiction. They hold the legal title to a specific property for the benefit of organizations or individuals.
- Partnership – where two or more businessmen come together to form a company.
- Foundations
- Branch
- An unlimited company without or with share capital is a legal entity whereby the members have no limit on the company’s liability when the company is unable to satisfy its debts and creditors.
A legal entity is established within one or two weeks, depending on the type of business you want to set up in Gibraltar.
Documents Required for Business Formation
Identification Documents – these could be a Certified International Passport Copy or a Certified copy of the EU issued ID card.
- Address proof – a certified copy of utility bill that is not older than three months or a certified copy of the bank statement showing your address that is not older than three months.
- Agreement – a signed Nominee agreement.
- Source of wealth – a bank statement showing your salary or a copy of the salary receipt.
- Forms – an original application form signed and completed by UBO.
- Other documents – an original reference letter from the lawyer or bank and a CV.
- Certification – notary, and for the translation the translator should have a name and seal.
Take Away
Most European countries will offer incentives for foreign investors, but these three jurisdictions are the top. Purpose to set up your company in any of these countries and enjoy highly skilled labor, advanced technology, and low tax rates.
