Company registration in Bosnia and Herzegovina - COREDO

Company registration in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a compact state situated on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeastern Europe. Over the past few decades, the country’s economy has been on a steady upward trajectory, with a consistent rise in interest from foreign investors.

According to the experts, in recent years, Bosnia and Herzegovina has maintained low inflation while achieving substantial economic growth. The local economy is based on mining, manufacturing, metallurgy, the chemical industry, electronics, and tourism. Notably, the capital city, Sarajevo, has earned a reputation as a hub for startups, with local authorities actively engaged in attracting and supporting innovative projects.

ADVANTAGES OF REGISTERING A COMPANY IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

While Bosnia and Herzegovina may not be the most widely chosen destination for starting a business, the jurisdiction boasts several advantages, including:

  • Interest from local authorities in foreign investment.
  • Convenient location with close cooperation with EU countries.
  • Low corporate tax rate (10%).
  • Access to inexpensive and qualified labour.
  • Fairly stable economic situation.
  • Developed banking sector.
  • Well-developed transport system.
  • Existence of DTA agreements (international treaties for the avoidance of double taxation) with over 40 countries.

POPULAR TYPES OF BUSINESS ORGANISATION IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Local legislation provides businessmen with the opportunity to register several types of companies. The most widely adopted organizational and legal form is the LLC. This limited liability company can be established by either an individual or a legal entity, with a maximum allowed number of participants set at 50. The minimum authorised capital is 2,000 euros, and the entire amount must be paid immediately after the company’s registration. An LLC is permitted to engage in all types of activities not prohibited by law. However, some activities (such as insurance, banking, brokerage, etc.) require a licence.

The majority of foreign investors opt for LLCs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nevertheless, other types of business organisation are also available:

  • Joint-stock company (suitable for large businesses).
  • Limited liability limited partnership.
  • Unlimited liability company.
  • Partnership.
  • Branch.

STAGES OF OPENING A COMPANY IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

To establish a company in Bosnia and Herzegovina, founders should choose a distinctive name and create a constituent protocol and charter. They must gather documents from directors and shareholders, appoint a general director, and determine the authorised capital. The completed paperwork should be submitted to the municipal court at the company’s legal address, accompanied by payment of registration and state fees. All documents submitted to government agencies need to be notarized. Once registered, the company’s details are added to the Trade Register. Subsequently, it’s essential to open a local bank account and register the company with the tax authorities.

 

REGISTRATION FEATURES

The Parliamentary Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina comprises three relatively independent entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Brcko District, and the Republika Srpska. Each region has federal and local laws, adding complexity to the business registration and operation process. Key federal regulations include the Framework Law on Registration of Business Entities and the Law on Commercial Companies.

Registering a new company in this jurisdiction typically takes 1-2 weeks, though in certain instances, the process may extend. To navigate potential challenges, we suggest seeking assistance from experienced COREDO managers.

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