Updated on
December 11, 2024
2. Steps to start a business in Luxembourg
Learn the essential steps to establish your business in Luxembourg, from choosing a legal structure to setting up your payroll system and hiring your first employee.
Starting a business in Luxembourg might seem complex at first, but it follows a clear and structured path. Whether you're establishing a small startup or a larger enterprise, this guide will walk you through each step, making the process manageable and clear.
Choosing your business structure
Your first major decision is selecting the right legal structure for your business. This choice will affect everything from your initial investment to your daily operations, so let's understand your main options:
The SARL (Limited Liability Company) is Luxembourg's most popular choice for good reasons. With a minimum capital requirement of 12 000 €, it offers solid liability protection while remaining relatively straightforward to manage. You can have between 1 and 100 shareholders, making it flexible enough for most business needs.
For entrepreneurs just starting out, the SARL-S (Simplified SARL) might be your best option. It requires only 1 € in capital to start, though it's limited to natural persons and certain activities. This structure was specifically created to help new businesses get off the ground more easily.
Larger operations or businesses planning to go public might consider an SA (Public Limited Company). While it requires 30 000 € in minimum capital and has more complex governance requirements, it offers the most flexibility for raising capital and transferring ownership.
Individual entrepreneurs often start with a sole proprietorship. While you'll have personal liability for business debts, the setup is simple and direct. There's no minimum capital required, and you can always transition to a different structure as your business grows.
Getting your business permit
Before you can start operations, you'll need a business permit from the Ministry of Economy. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Submit your application through MyGuichet.lu with your professional qualifications, proof of integrity, identification, and Luxembourg address proof. The processing typically takes 2-3 months, so factor this into your planning timeline.
💡 Pro Tip: Start gathering your documentation early. Having all papers ready before submission can help avoid delays.
Setting up your finances
A solid financial foundation is crucial for your business success. You'll need to:
- Open a business bank account - this is mandatory before registration
- Deposit your capital - your bank will provide proof of deposit needed for registration
- Plan your operational budget - include all startup costs and running expenses
💡 Pro Tip: Use Salary.lu's cost calculator to accurately estimate your payroll expenses - a significant part of your operational budget.
Registering your company
Company registration happens through the Luxembourg Business Registers (LBR). The process has two main phases:
First, check and reserve your company name. This gives you 20 days to complete your registration while protecting your chosen name. Next comes the official registration, where you'll work with a notary to prepare and notarize your company documents.
Setting up your administration
Once registered, you'll need to establish three key administrative frameworks:
Banking: Beyond your basic business account, set up your payroll processing system and payment authorizations. This is where digital solutions can save you significant time and reduce errors.
Tax Registration: You'll need both a tax number and VAT registration. Your reporting systems should be set up properly from the start to avoid future complications.
Social Security: Register with the CCSS to get your employer ID and set up your contribution system. Modern payroll solutions like Salary.lu can automate your CCSS declarations, ensuring you never miss a deadline.
Preparing for your first hire
When you're ready to hire, you have just 8 days to register your first employee with the CCSS. Getting your payroll system in place before hiring is crucial. You'll need to:
- Have employment contracts ready
- Set up your payroll processing system
- Establish clear HR policies
- Prepare your documentation system
💡 Pro Tip: Salary.lu offers automated contract generation and digital employee management, making your first hire smoother and ensuring compliance from day one.
Looking ahead
Setting up a business in Luxembourg follows a clear path when you understand the steps. While some aspects might seem complex, modern tools and solutions can significantly simplify the process. The next chapter will guide you through choosing the right payroll solution, helping you build efficient operations from the start.
Remember: A well-planned setup lays the foundation for your business success. Take time to understand each step, and don't hesitate to use available tools and support to make the process smoother.