Establish a Company in Belarus

Expanding your business footprint into Eastern Europe can be an exciting venture, and Belarus is increasingly recognized as a favorable jurisdiction for foreign investors. Whether you plan to tap into the local market or position Belarus as a strategic hub for broader regional growth, understanding the legal framework is essential. This article will explore the most popular business structures, outline the taxation system, and walk you through the registration process step by step. We will also highlight why professional legal support can make all the difference in successfully establishing and operating your company in this rapidly developing market.

Choosing the Right Business Structure

When investors decide to establish a company in Belarus, they frequently select a Limited Liability Company (LLC). An LLC offers flexibility in setting share capital—starting from as little as 1 euro—and does not require a large workforce. By contrast, other available forms such as an Additional Liability Company (ALC), a Private Unitary Enterprise (PUE), or a Joint Stock Company (JSC) often involve stricter regulatory demands or higher staffing requirements. Because many foreign entrepreneurs prefer simpler governance models and minimal employee obligations, LLC remains the most commonly chosen form.

Understanding Belarusian Taxation

Much like in other international jurisdictions, Belarus has two principal tax systems:

• Simplified Regime (6%)
  Companies under this system pay 6% on total revenue, with no deductions for expenses. The annual turnover, however, must not exceed 900,000 euros. If your business surpasses this threshold, you will have to shift to the general regime.
• General Regime (20% profit tax + 20% VAT)
  Under this scheme, you pay a 20% corporate profit tax in addition to a 20% value-added tax (VAT). While the administrative load is higher, the general regime is better suited to companies expecting to scale beyond the simplified system’s revenue cap.

Careful planning is crucial. Startups with modest revenue projections might find the simplified regime appealing, but more substantial or rapidly growing businesses often opt for the general system to avoid frequent transitions.

First Stage: Company Registration

The procedure for establishing a new entity typically begins with preparing several core documents and submitting them to the appropriate state authorities. When performed correctly, the registration can be completed within a single day, after which the company is registered for taxation and social protection within about five more working days. Key steps include:

• Drafting the Charter: This document may be in Russian or Belarusian and must specify the company’s name, objectives, ownership structure, and the amount of share capital. For an LLC, the capital can start at just 1 euro.
• Translation of the Founder’s Passport: If the founder’s passport is translated abroad, it typically requires an apostille. Translations by Belarusian professionals may not need additional verification.
• Name Approval via the Ministry of Justice Website: You can submit up to three name options, one of which will be officially registered.
• Securing a Legal Address: This can be a physical office (costing 5–20 euros per square meter per month) or a nominal address starting at 15 euros monthly.
• Paying the State Fee: The official registration fee is only about 10 euros, a notably low cost compared to many other jurisdictions.

If you are unable to visit Belarus, you can authorize local attorneys to file the paperwork on your behalf through a power of attorney. Once your company is officially recognized, you receive documents confirming registration in the tax and social security systems, enabling you to move on to the next steps—such as opening a bank account.

Setting Up a Bank Account

Belarusian companies can hold multiple bank accounts in different local institutions. The monthly service fees for a basic business account usually hover around 10 euros, although banks do not charge for the initial opening. When choosing a bank, consider the nature of your international transactions. Some banks specialize in payments to European countries, others excel in transactions with China or other regions. Regardless of your preference, you’ll need to provide:

• A copy of the charter
• The official registration certificate
• Documentation confirming the appointment of a director
• Signature cards
• A questionnaire detailing the company’s ownership, planned business activities, and financial projections

After submitting these details, account creation generally takes just one working day. You can then access online banking services, including smartphone apps, for simpler day-to-day operations.

Managing Accounting and Tax Filings

Once your company is established, you will need to ensure compliance with Belarusian tax regulations and submit periodic financial reports. Business owners typically pick one of three approaches:

• Hiring an In-House Accountant: A full-time specialist may earn at least 600 euros per month, including payroll taxes.
• Outsourcing to an Accounting Firm: This solution, at around 150 euros monthly, is popular with smaller companies looking for cost-effective, expert oversight.
• Self-Management: If you or your director have the necessary knowledge of local rules, you can handle bookkeeping duties directly, although most foreign entrepreneurs prefer professional guidance.

Electronic Signature: A Key to Remote Administration

For foreign investors seeking maximum flexibility, an electronic signature can be especially beneficial. This digital key, priced at approximately 90 euros, allows secure online submission of documents and electronic reporting to authorities. While filing on paper is still acceptable, an electronic signature helps you manage your company from anywhere in the world, avoiding unnecessary travel or courier expenses.

Estimating Your Costs and Timeline

In total, establishing an LLC in Belarus involves moderate costs:

• Registration fee: ~10 euros
• Legal address: from ~15 euros per month
• Monthly bank fees: ~10 euros per account
• Accounting on an outsourced basis: ~150 euros per month
• Electronic signature: ~90 euros (one-time)

You may also incur translation expenses and legal service fees, depending on your business scope. Generally, the company registration itself can be completed in one day, and concluding additional tasks like opening accounts, setting up accounting arrangements, and acquiring an electronic signature typically takes another week. Some business owners prefer managing these extra steps themselves, while others rely on legal professionals to finalize every detail seamlessly.

Beyond that, your newly formed company may need to formalize labor contracts, register foreign employees with migration authorities, or apply for special licenses in certain sectors. A local law firm can handle these aspects on your behalf if you lack the time or expertise. Detailed information on extended services is available at
https://e-sud.by/useful/blog/pravovoi_abonement.

Why Work with Our Legal Team

Our firm stands out for its extensive expertise in corporate matters, including the registration of Belarusian companies for international investors. Thanks to a strong network of partnerships in 37 countries, we consistently receive positive recommendations. We have more than 10 experienced attorneys, each possessing 15–25 years of practice, and we work in specialized groups for maximum transparency and efficiency. The director of our firm spent two decades in economic courts—10 of those as a judge—giving us unparalleled insight into the intricacies of Belarusian law.

Over 100 satisfied clients have praised our streamlined processes and proactive approach. We frequently register companies not just in Belarus but also in international jurisdictions, ensuring comprehensive legal solutions for entrepreneurs. By uniting in dedicated teams, we expedite tasks while keeping every step clear for our clients, reducing both the timeframe and stress typically associated with corporate formation.

Ready to Establish a Company in Belarus?

If you are eager to establish a company in Belarus and want guidance tailored to your specific objectives, we invite you to submit a request for a consultation at https://e-sud.by/eng/service/open-company-in-belarus.
Our team offers a hands-on approach that can include everything from drafting the charter to securing an electronic signature—whether you prefer a turnkey solution or plan to handle certain tasks independently. Partner with us to streamline the process, minimize risks, and ensure your new venture in Belarus meets every legal requirement. Now is the ideal moment to explore what this dynamic market can offer, and we are here to help you seize that opportunity confidently and efficiently.