The 7 Steps to Create a Company in Belgium in 2026

A 7-step process

Creating a company in Belgium may seem complex, but the process is actually quite structured. Here are the 7 key steps, in chronological order.

Overview

Step 1: Choose the legal form

The choice depends on your objective, the number of founders, and the type of activity.

Step 2: Draft the articles of association

The articles of association define the operating rules of your company. They must mandatorily mention:

• The name of the company and its legal form
• The registered office (official address)
• The corporate purpose (activities carried out)
• The capital and share distribution
• The management bodies (manager, board of directors)
• The dissolution rules

Step 3: The financial plan

The financial plan is a confidential document submitted to the notary. It will only be consulted in case of bankruptcy within the first 3 years. It must demonstrate that starting capital is sufficient.

Step 4: The provisional bank account

Before the notary appointment, you must open a bank account in the name of your company in formation and deposit cash contributions. The bank will issue a bank certificate to submit to the notary.

Step 5: The notary appointment

The notary drafts the deed of incorporation from your articles and financial plan. Signing can be done:

• In person at the notary's office
• Remotely via the ITSME platform (electronic signature)

Step 6: BCE registration and VAT

After the notary appointment, your company must be registered with:

• The Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE) to obtain your business number
• VAT if you carry out an activity subject to VAT

These procedures are done through an approved business counter (Xerius, Acerta, UCM, etc.).

Step 7: UBO register

Within 30 days of creation, you must declare the beneficial owners of your company to the Treasury's UBO register. This obligation applies to all legal forms.