Paradox: more than 70% of new companies in Liechtenstein are international structures, and the average time to open a corporate account here is up to 3 weeks, which is faster than in most European banks. Still, behind these figures lie real challenges: tightening AML, new tax rules of 2025, complex compliance and pre-approval procedures for bank accounts. How to ensure transparency, maintain confidentiality and not lose efficiency?
Liechtenstein for international business: why choose it?
Liechtenstein for business is more than just a catchy phrase. Behind it lies a unique combination of political and economic stability, flexible corporate law and access to EU and Swiss markets. In recent years the COREDO team has completed dozens of company formation projects in Liechtenstein for holding companies, IT firms, investment funds and family offices.
AAA credit rating and bank security
The AAA credit rating is not just a formal indicator but a real guarantee of the safety of funds. Liechtenstein’s banking system is recognized as one of the most resilient in the world, and client assets are protected at a level comparable to Switzerland. In practice this means no currency controls, instant international transfers and a high level of trust from investors and counterparties.
Access to EU and Swiss markets
Liechtenstein is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and a participant in the customs union agreement with Switzerland. This is a unique position: by registering a company here you gain a springboard for scaling your business through a European jurisdiction, as well as direct access to EU and Swiss markets without additional barriers. A solution developed by COREDO for one fintech client enabled it to enter the markets of both regions within 6 months, minimizing costs for Licensing and certification.
Tax advantages for companies in Liechtenstein
Taxes in Liechtenstein are a separate topic for strategic planning. Liechtenstein corporate law allows flexible choice of tax structure, and the tax rate in Liechtenstein is one of the lowest in Europe.
Corporate tax 12.5% — one of the lowest in Europe.
| Jurisdiction | Corporate tax | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Liechtenstein | 12.5% | One of the lowest in Europe |
| Switzerland | 11.9% (average) | Varies by canton |
| Luxembourg | 17% | Including local taxes |
| Netherlands | 19% | Base rate |
Tax incentives for investment funds
Agreements to prevent double taxation
Liechtenstein has signed more than 20 agreements to prevent double taxation, including with EU countries, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Cyprus and Estonia. This allows avoiding double taxation of dividends, interest and royalties, as well as using advantageous cross-border financing schemes. A solution implemented by the COREDO team for an international IT group reduced the overall tax burden by 15% through the proper allocation of flows between subsidiaries.
Tax changes 2025: what you need to know
From 2025 new rules concerning the taxation of holdings and investment funds come into force: requirements for real presence (substance) are being tightened, control over transfer pricing is being strengthened, and additional incentives are being introduced for innovative companies. COREDO recommends conducting a corporate structure audit in advance and making the necessary changes to preserve tax advantages.
Company registration in Liechtenstein: types and requirements
company registration in Liechtenstein is possible in several forms: public limited company (AG), Anstalt, Stiftung and offshore companies. The choice depends on the goals, type of business and confidentiality requirements.
Public limited company (AG) for international business
AG is the most sought-after form for international holdings and investment projects. Share capital requirements: a minimum of 50,000 Swiss francs; the management structure includes a board of directors and a shareholders’ meeting. The registration procedure takes about 1 week, and the document package includes the articles of association, information about beneficiaries and proof of capital contribution.
Institution — a structure for asset management
Anstalt is a unique form that combines features of a company and a foundation. It is ideally suited for asset management, family offices and holding structures. Advantages: flexibility in management, tax benefits, a high level of confidentiality. COREDO solutions for family offices are often built on the basis of an Anstalt, which allows effective asset protection and risk minimization.
Liechtenstein offshore companies: status and limitations
An offshore company in Liechtenstein is a structure that conducts activities exclusively outside the country, without employees or an office in Liechtenstein. Advantages include possible exemption from corporate income tax, no property tax, and medium registration complexity. It is important to strictly comply with activity and documentation requirements, otherwise the status may be lost.
| Parameter | Traditional company | Offshore company |
|---|---|---|
| Place of operations | In Liechtenstein | Outside Liechtenstein |
| Employees | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Corporate income tax | 12.5% | Possible exemption |
| Property tax | Applies | Does not apply |
| Registration complexity | Medium | Medium |
Shelf companies: quick start
Shelf companies are already registered legal entities that do not conduct any business activity. Buying one allows you to start operations within 1-2 days, which is especially relevant for urgent projects or participation in tenders. COREDO’s experience has shown that this approach is effective for international contracts requiring immediate legalization of a business.
Requirements for statutory capital and registration
Requirements for statutory capital in Liechtenstein are transparent: for an AG – a minimum of 50,000 Swiss francs; for an Anstalt, from 30,000. Capital contributions can be made in cash or in kind, and Liechtenstein banks accept deposits in major currencies.
Minimum statutory capital: CHF 50,000
Step-by-step registration for foreign investors
- Determining the structure and preparing the articles of association
- Contributing the statutory capital
- Registration in the commercial register
- Obtaining a trading license (if required)
- Registration with tax authorities
Timeframe — from 1 to 2 weeks. For non-residents, registration can be done remotely using a power of attorney and apostilled documents.
Apostille of documents and legal support
Legalization and apostilling of constitutive documents are mandatory for international structures. Legal business support in Liechtenstein includes not only registration, but also provision of nominee services, secretarial services, and advice on corporate governance. COREDO’s experience shows: a reliable legal partner significantly reduces risks and speeds up processes.
Banking services and account opening in Liechtenstein
company bank account in Liechtenstein: a key element of the infrastructure. The country’s banking system is characterized by a high level of asset protection, transparency and flexibility.
Pre-approval and compliance: mandatory stages
AML requirements: how to comply
To successfully pass an AML check, it is important to provide documents confirming the source of funds, as well as to undergo the KYC (Know Your Customer) procedure. COREDO’s experience shows that preparation for compliance starts already at the company registration stage, which helps to avoid refusals and delays.
Choosing a bank: how to pick the right one?
Asset protection and privacy
Tax privacy and asset protection are among the main reasons entrepreneurs choose Liechtenstein for business. The jurisdiction provides a high level of protection against lawsuits and hostile takeovers.
Funds as a tool for asset protection
Privacy of owners and beneficiaries
Liechtenstein has restricted access to the register of beneficiaries. Information about owners is protected from public disclosure, while complying with international transparency standards (FATCA, CRS). This allows for a balance between confidentiality and compliance requirements.
Special tax regimes for IT businesses
Tax incentives for innovative and IT companies: an important stimulus for startups and technological projects. In 2025 new regimes come into force, providing for a reduced tax rate and expedited obtaining licenses for companies investing in sustainable development and digitalization.
Investments in innovation and sustainable development for residency
Asset management through Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein: a recognized center of international tax planning and asset management. Corporate and holding structures allow optimizing taxation, reducing risks and ensuring long-term capital protection.
Holding structures: taxes and asset management
Investment funds: features and advantages
investment funds in Liechtenstein: an instrument for collective investing and raising capital. They are exempt from most taxes, and the registration process takes up to 4 weeks. COREDO’s solutions for funds allow attracting international investors and managing assets with maximum efficiency.
Risks and limitations: what to consider
Despite the obvious advantages, opening a company in Liechtenstein involves several risks: tightening requirements for offshore companies, the need for strict adherence to AML and compliance requirements, and annual reporting and audits.
Requirements for offshore status in 2025
Licensing and registration with tax authorities
Certain types of activities require obtaining a trade license and mandatory registration with the tax authorities. COREDO supports clients at all stages, from choosing a license to preparing reports.
Compliance with FATCA and CRS standards
Liechtenstein is integrated into the system of international transparency standards: FATCA, CRS, AML. This means mandatory reporting and the exchange of information with tax authorities of other countries. To minimize risks, COREDO recommends preparing documentation in advance and undergoing an internal audit.
Comparison of Liechtenstein with other European jurisdictions
| Parameter | Liechtenstein | Luxembourg | Switzerland | Cyprus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate tax | 12,5% | 17% | 11,9% | 0% (conditional) |
| Credit rating | AAA | AAA | AAA | A+ |
| EEA membership | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Confidentiality | High | Medium | High | Medium |
| Ease of registration | High | Medium | Medium | High |
| Minimum capital | 50 000 CHF | 30 000 EUR | 100 000 CHF | 1 EUR |
Opening a Company in Liechtenstein: Step-by-Step Plan
Practical approach: the step-by-step plan for opening a company in Liechtenstein begins with careful preparation: the success of the process largely depends on attention to detail from the outset. Below is a phased plan that will help structure each action and avoid common mistakes on the path from idea to official company registration.
Phase 1: Preparation (1–2 weeks)
- Determining the company structure
- Preparation of the articles of association and founding documents
- Choosing a legal partner
- Checklist: passport, proof of address, information about beneficiaries, business plan
Phase 2: Registration (1 week)
- Submission of documents to the commercial register
- Deposit of the share capital into a temporary account
- Obtaining the certificate of registration
Banking services (2–4 weeks)
- Choosing a bank
- Preparation of documents for pre-approval
- Undergoing a compliance check
- Opening an account
Ongoing project support
- Annual reporting and audit
- Tax planning
- Updating founding documents
- Consultations on business development
Choosing a reliable partner: what to pay attention to
Choosing a reliable partner is a strategic decision that directly affects the success of your business and the minimization of legal risks. What you pay attention to when evaluating a law or consulting firm determines the quality of services received, the speed of problem resolution, and the effectiveness of legal protection. Let’s look at the key criteria that will help you choose a truly reliable partner, rather than encounter unscrupulous professionals.
Criteria for evaluating law firms
- Experience in company registration in Liechtenstein
- Knowledge of tax and corporate legislation
- Connections with banks and regulators
- Reputation and client reviews
- Transparency of service costs
Services included in the package
- Company registration and legal address
- Secretarial and nominee services
- Tax consulting and support
- Banking assistance and compliance support