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Set up a company in Liechtenstein?

Learn how to do it compliantly and legally:
Close ties to Switzerland
12.5% corporation tax
0% withholding tax
Strong legal framework
You can reduce your tax burden legally. We will be happy to advise you in depth and offer you a free initial consultation.
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Pros and cons of setting up a company abroad

If you relocate your residence:
  • 0% withholding tax

  • No inheritance/gift, or wealth tax

  • Your home country may tax certain assets when you move abroad 
Without emigrating:
  • If the company is effectively managed from your home country, it may be taxed there

  • Ownership levels can affect how profits are taxed 

  • At least one director should be based in Liechtenstein 

What makes Liechtenstein attractive as a business location?

Liechtenstein is principality between Switzerland and Austria, using the Swiss franc (CHF). It is an EEA member and economically linked to Switzerland, with the Swiss VAT system applying (standard rate 8.1%).

Liechtenstein levies a flat 12.5% corporation tax on profits, plus a minimum annual tax of CHF 1,800 (approx. EUR 1,970), even on zero profit. As a rule, no withholding tax applies to dividends, interest, or royalties.

For groups with over €750 million in global annual revenue, the global minimum tax (15%) applies via QDMTT (local top-up) or IIR (parent company collects the difference).

Liechtenstein is often used for holding and asset structures, including companies, foundations, and establishments. Beneficial owners are disclosed under AML rules, and at least one locally resident, professionally qualified officer (trustee or board member) is required in practice.

Banking is available but onboarding requires full KYC and documentation such as evidence of asset origin, source of funds, economic background, and substance.

Contact us for an individual analysis and, where appropriate, better alternative solutions.

FAQs

Local director required?

At least one locally resident, professionally qualified board or officer member, as well as a registered business address in Liechtenstein, are required.

Lots of banking options?

There are reputable banking options, but with strict due diligence. Clean documentation and a clear source of wealth are essential.

Remote incorporation possible?

Yes. Incorporation is typically carried out via licensed trustees and can be handled remotely. Opening a bank account is often the most time-consuming step.

How long does incorporation take?

Usually 5–10 working days once the documentation is complete. Banking processes can take significantly longer.

What are the tax rates?

Corporation tax: 12.5%
VAT: 8.1% standard rate
Income tax (if resident in Liechtenstein): progressive, approx. 1%–22–24% depending on income and municipality
No wealth tax
No inheritance tax
No gift tax
No withholding tax on dividends

Which locations worldwide are best suited to paying as little tax as possible?
Tax Burden Banking Reputation Bureaucracy Legal Security Costs
USA 21-0%
from EUR 1,900
Singapore 0%
from EUR 2,950
Hong Kong 0%
from EUR 1,900
Cyprus 15%
from EUR 1,900
Malta 5%
from EUR 2,500
Ireland 12,5%
from EUR 1,950
Trust 0%
from EUR 4,900
England 25-19%
from EUR 1,000

Tax compliance in your country of residence

Your country of residence may impose tax and reporting obligations for foreign business activities and dividend income, in some cases even if profits are not distributed.

Depending on your personal situation, a suitable holding structure may be required to comply with tax rules and avoid unnecessary tax risks.

To determine which jurisdiction and structure best meet your requirements, please use the contact form and describe your plans as fully as possible.

Our advisers will be happy to review your case and advise you accordingly.

1.
Analyse your needs
We assess your situation to define goals, risk tolerance, tax burden and priorities for asset protection.
2.
Carry out a location analysis
We compare potential jurisdictions based on tax law, banking access, compliance requirements and your country of residence.
3.
Incorporate the company and, if needed, set up a foundation
Open accounts and portfolios and, where required, implement asset management.

Our advantages

Tax optimisation
Tax optimisation
Reduce your tax burden legally by 50–85% domestically and internationally.
Sustainable asset protection
Sustainable asset protection
Protect your assets over the long term from economic and legal risks.
Cross-border business models
Cross-border business models
Develop international corporate structures for greater economic freedom.
Corporate structuring & company formation
Corporate structuring & company formation
Optimise your corporate and shareholding structures for growth and tax savings.
Foundations & wealth management
Foundations & wealth management
Use tailored foundation structures for future generations.
Emigration & exit taxation
Emigration & exit taxation
We support your change of residence and help you avoid exit taxation.
Personal advice & implementation
Personal advice & implementation
Bespoke solutions with personal support from analysis through to implementation.
Exclusive expert network
Exclusive expert network
Access to experienced tax advisers, solicitors and international business experts.

How our clients have successfully reduced their tax burden with our strategies

Comprehensive personal advice with a great result!
Conversation in Nice with our long-standing client Marco about our collaboration to date.
Marco V.
Marco V.
Conversation with Andreas Schneider
Andreas relocated to Switzerland many years ago and shares his experiences of Switzerland and of us as his trusted partner throughout the journey.
Andreas S.

W-V Law Firm LLP

Your partner for corporate law, foundations, banking and expansion
Successfully established in the market since 2013.
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Leading law firm in the European region
Leading law firm in the European region
Always solution-focused and personally available
Always solution-focused and personally available