Company registration in the EU: Top countries in 2024

The European Union remains one of the most attractive regions for business worldwide. Access to a large market, a reliable banking system, a high level of infrastructure development, and a skilled workforce make it a suitable place for many foreign entrepreneurs and business types.

Registering your company in the EU also offers significant advantages when conducting business with international partners. Foreign companies and counterparts prefer to collaborate with partners from more developed and economically stable countries, which are not considered offshore.

Interested in learning about the most promising European jurisdictions for business registration? We have prepared up-to-date information for you on the top 5 countries that offer unique tax opportunities and excellent business conditions.

In 2024, the top 5 European countries for company registration include:

Cyprus

Cyprus is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for business registration, thanks to its business-friendly atmosphere and favorable tax conditions. The island boasts a low corporate tax rate and numerous bilateral agreements for the avoidance of double taxation.

With its efficient legislative system, full integration into the European Union, and opportunities for legal tax optimization, Cyprus is hailed as the “Most Convenient Jurisdiction for European Business.” Establishing your own company in Cyprus provides you with the opportunity to conduct business in a stable and prestigious jurisdiction, offering access to the global market, and legally minimizing both corporate and personal taxation. Cyprus Company Incorporation

Portugal (Madeira)

Portugal stands out among low-tax jurisdictions due to its competitive tax system, which attracts a large number of experienced professionals and entrepreneurs. This country rightfully earns a spot on the list of “Best Tax Residences in Europe” and ranks in the top 5 EU countries for ease of doing business.

Particularly noteworthy is Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, renowned for its attractive tax benefits, especially appealing to companies engaged in international business. Company registration in Madeira

Malta

Malta is another highly attractive destination for business in Europe. The island represents a modern international business and financial center with excellent infrastructure. However, what truly makes Malta appealing to entrepreneurs is its tax system, which is considered one of the most advantageous in the European Union. Malta offers a special tax refund system, allowing for the utilization of corporate tax strategies to reduce the tax burden. Malta Company Registration Services

Spain

Spain, despite not being a low-tax jurisdiction, offers certain tax advantages due to free economic zones, including reduced corporate tax rates, VAT exemptions, and stamp duty concessions. These measures help stimulate business activity and attract investments. Additionally, Spain boasts a large and diverse market, providing favorable conditions for various types of companies, including innovative startups, to develop and expand their business ideas.

Italy

Italy is not only a land of history and culture but also a popular destination for business. The country plays a key role as a transportation hub, connecting various regions of Southern, Central, and Eastern Europe. It is important to note that the Italian government actively implements reforms and provides incentives that promote the establishment of companies and business development.

When it comes to registering a company in the European Union, taxes are one of the key aspects to consider. The variety of tax rates and rules allows entrepreneurs to choose the optimal path to achieve their business goals.

Below, we’ll examine the tax rates applicable in the five popular countries for business in 2024.

• International Business Center of Madeira (Portugal)

– Corporate tax is only 5% for international business

– Dividend tax 0%

• Cyprus

– The corporate tax rate is fixed at 12.5%

– Dividend tax 0%

• Portugal (mainland)

– Corporate tax varies from 17% to 21%, depending on the company’s profit level

– Dividend tax is standard at 28%, but can be 0% under certain conditions

• Italy

– Corporate tax rate is 24%

– Dividends are taxed at rates ranging from 1.2% to 26%. Reduced rates and refunds may apply under certain conditions.

• Spain

– Corporate tax rate is 25%, reduced to 15% for new companies for the first and next tax periods in which they make a profit.

– Dividend tax is set at 19%.

• Malta

– Corporate tax is 35%, but due to the tax refund system, the overall net effective corporate tax rate can be reduced to 10%, 5%, and even 0%.

– Dividend tax 0%

For more detailed information on the cost and process of registering a company in such jurisdictions, please fill out the form below.

Our corporate law and tax lawyers are ready to provide you with individual consultation and calculate all the costs associated with your business.

Deciding to register a company in the European Union is a significant step that requires professional support. We are ready to assist you and provide a wide range of legal and corporate services.

✔️ Legal support for company registration: Our team of experienced lawyers and corporate specialists ensures that your company is registered in compliance with the laws of the country chosen for your business.

✔️ Assistance with opening a bank account: We help you choose a suitable bank and provide support from the beginning to the end of the process of opening personal and corporate bank accounts.

✔️ Tax consultations and tax optimization: Tax efficiency plays a crucial role in business success. We offer professional tax consultations and assist in optimizing your tax obligations while complying with all legislative requirements of the chosen country.

✔️ Administrative and fiduciary services: We provide administrative support, including company address registration and provision of nominee services.

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Article author

Elena Georghiou Founder and Managing Director
Ukraine

Elena Georghiou – Founder and Managing Director of Feod Group. Has two higher educations: the first at the Odessa State Polytechnic University, majoring in automation and computer engineering (1986) and second in the Moscow State Law Academy, majoring in law (1991). Has work experience in London i...

Elena Georghiou – Founder and Managing Director of Feod Group. Has two higher educations: the first at the Odessa State Polytechnic University, majoring in automation and computer engineering (1986) and second in the Moscow State Law Academy, majoring in law (1991). Has work experience in London immigration law firms. Is a regular participant in seminars and trainings on immigration, corporate and private law of the European Union. Elena Georghiou has more than 25 years of legal experience and heads the specialized Residency and Citizenship practice across European countries, UK and USA advising HNWIs and their families on:

• immigration planning;
• consultations on obtaining alternative (second) citizenship;
• Residency and Citizenship by Investment;
• business immigration;
• preparation of appeals, working with complex immigration cases.

She advises individuals and corporate clients for wealth/business structuring and assets protection. Central to her Managerial role in the company she initiated and united high level lawyers and other top professionals around the word in order to provide Feod Group clients with bespoke level of legal and business services word wide, keeping the staff focused on the opportunities and challenges faced by each individual client. Speaks Russian, Ukrainian, English.

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