Common Mistakes to Avoid When Forming a Company in Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is one of Europe’s most attractive jurisdictions for founders seeking a modern, secure, and tax-efficient base. But while the benefits are many — from 12.5% corporate tax to full EU market access via the EEA — forming a company here still requires careful planning.
At SwissFirm, we’ve seen where founders commonly make mistakes that lead to unnecessary delays, rejected filings, or structures that don’t serve long-term goals.
❌ Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Legal Structure
Not all company forms are created equal. While AGs and GmbHs are popular, a Stiftung (Foundation) or Trust reg. may be better suited for asset protection, inheritance planning, or private wealth control.
How to avoid it:
SwissFirm helps you select the right structure based on your business goals. Reference official guidance from the Liechtenstein Office of Justice to better understand:
- AG – For public or private equity and holding activities
- GmbH – For small to medium enterprises
- Stiftung – For succession, privacy, and wealth preservation
- Trust reg. – For fiduciary arrangements and estate management
❌ Mistake #2: Ignoring Residency and Director Requirements
While Liechtenstein welcomes foreign entrepreneurs, many company types require at least one local or EEA-resident director or an authorized representative — especially when opening a bank account or registering for VAT.
How to avoid it:
SwissFirm assists in appointing qualified Swiss or EEA-based directors through our Swiss resident director service, ensuring your company meets all regulatory requirements from day one.
❌ Mistake #3: Delaying Bank Account Setup
One of the most common and costly errors is waiting until after incorporation to start the banking process. This leads to delays and, in some cases, account denial due to insufficient documentation or unclear ownership.
How to avoid it:
Begin banking conversations in parallel with your company formation. SwissFirm supports introductions to reliable banking partners in both Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
❌ Mistake #4: Underestimating Capital Requirements
Each legal entity requires a minimum share capital:
- AG: CHF/EUR 50,000 (minimum 50% paid-in at incorporation)
- GmbH: CHF/EUR 10,000
Founders often miscalculate this or assume a capital deposit is a mere formality.
How to avoid it:
SwissFirm ensures your capital documentation is compliant and ready for both the registry and your banking partner.
❌ Mistake #5: Forgetting About Ongoing Reporting Obligations
A Liechtenstein company must meet annual compliance, including:
- Financial statements
- Tax filing
- VAT registration and reporting (where applicable)
How to avoid it:
SwissFirm offers ongoing support for bookkeeping and annual compliance, so you stay fully aligned with local requirements.
❌ Mistake #6: Not Integrating with Swiss Operations
Many international founders set up in Liechtenstein but overlook the operational benefits of also coordinating with Switzerland — for banking, representation, or administrative functions.
How to avoid it:
SwissFirm helps bridge your Liechtenstein company with:
- Swiss business address services
- Swiss-based directors or mail handling
- Multijurisdictional compliance coordination
✅ Why Work with SwissFirm?
SwissFirm is a trusted Swiss advisory partner helping global founders establish, maintain, and grow Liechtenstein-based entities — all with a single point of contact. Our services include:
- Strategic structure selection
- Company formation and registry coordination
- Legal document preparation
- Banking support in Liechtenstein or Switzerland
- Accounting and tax filing
- Local representative or director services
Build Your Liechtenstein Company the Right Way — with Swiss Support
Don't risk compliance errors or costly delays. SwissFirm provides complete support for forming and managing your Liechtenstein entity, from anywhere in the world.
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🏢 Blegistrasse 7, 6340 Baar, Switzerland