The SRL (private limited liability company) is today the most popular structure for launching a business in Belgium. Flexible, accessible and protective of personal assets, it suits the vast majority of projects, from the self-employed person incorporating to the growing SME.
What is an SRL?
Introduced by the Code of Companies and Associations (CSA), in force since 2019, the SRL replaced the former SPRL. Its main feature: the liability of the partners is limited to their contributions. In case of difficulty, your personal assets are in principle protected, unlike operating as a natural person.
The SRL can be created by a single person or by several partners. It offers great statutory freedom: the distribution of shares, voting rights and transfer conditions can be tailored to your project.
Why choose the SRL?
- Asset protection: your liability is limited to your contributions.
- No more legal minimum capital: the SRL no longer requires start-up capital imposed by law.
- Flexibility: adaptable articles, flexible governance, easy entry and exit of partners.
- Credibility: a company reassures banks, clients and suppliers.
- Optimisation: incorporation opens tax and social levers that a self-employed natural person does not have.
The steps to set up an SRL
- Financial plan — a mandatory document justifying that the start-up funds are sufficient for the first two years of activity.
- Drafting the articles of association — corporate purpose, capital, governance and share transfer rules.
- Deposit of start-up funds — for cash contributions, opening an account and obtaining a bank certificate.
- Notarial deed — the SRL is incorporated by authentic deed before a notary.
- Registration with the CBE and VAT activation — via an accredited business counter, which assigns the company number.
- Registration in the UBO register — declaration of the company's ultimate beneficial owners, a legal obligation.
- Affiliation with a social insurance fund — mandatory for directors, within three months of acquiring legal personality.
Start-up funds and financial plan
The SRL no longer imposes a minimum capital, but the law requires sufficient start-up funds in view of the planned activity. That amount is justified in the financial plan, the document submitted to the notary. A poorly prepared financial plan can engage the founder's liability in the event of early bankruptcy: a step not to be neglected.
Registered office: Brussels or the Flemish Region?
Corporate income tax is federal — identical everywhere. The location of the registered office does, however, determine municipal taxes, the language regime of the company and access to certain regional incentives. StartOffice can offer you a business address in Brussels or in the Flemish Region and analyses your situation.
How much does it cost to set up an SRL?
The budget for an incorporation includes notary fees, publication in the Belgian Official Gazette and registration with the CBE. We detail everything, item by item, on our page company formation costs.
SRL or SA: which form to choose?
The SRL covers most projects. The SA (public limited company) is aimed rather at larger structures or projects with significant capital-raising needs. Compare in detail in our guide SRL or SA: which to choose?.
Why set up your SRL with StartOffice
Based in Brussels, StartOffice acts as a one-stop shop: a single point of contact coordinates the notary, the accountant and the formalities. You save time, avoid mistakes and benefit from negotiated rates with our accredited partners. From the free consultation to the actual launch, we handle everything.
Frequently asked questions about setting up an SRL
How much capital do you need to set up an SRL in Belgium?
Since the reform of the Code of Companies and Associations (2019), the SRL no longer has a legal minimum capital. You must, however, plan sufficient start-up funds to launch the activity, the amount of which is justified in a financial plan submitted to the notary.
How long does it take to set up an SRL?
Once the file is complete (financial plan, articles of association, capital deposit), incorporation by notarial deed and obtaining the company number can be done within a few days. With StartOffice, expect 5 to 10 working days depending on your situation.
Can you set up an SRL on your own?
Yes. An SRL can be set up by a single person, individual or legal entity. You can therefore launch your company without a partner.
Is a notary mandatory?
Yes. Setting up an SRL requires a notarial deed. The notary checks the articles of association, the financial plan and the deposit of start-up capital. StartOffice coordinates the whole process with a partner notary.
Can a non-resident set up an SRL in Belgium?
Yes. A foreign entrepreneur, resident or not, can set up an SRL in Belgium. Additional formalities may apply (notably the professional card for certain nationalities). StartOffice supports non-residents from start to finish.
What is the UBO register and do you need to register?
The UBO register lists the ultimate beneficial owners of a company. Registration is mandatory for all Belgian companies and is the responsibility of the directors. StartOffice includes this formality in its support.