Jurisdictions
Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein has operated as an international financial centre since the 1920s, when it adopted the Swiss Franc and began building a legal framework to attract foreign capital. A century later, the principality — a constitutional monarchy of 38,000 people, nestled between Switzerland and Austria — holds the second-highest GDP per capita in the world and is home to more registered companies than citizens.
That density of corporate activity isn’t accidental. The government treats international business as a core economic pillar, and its Financial Market Authority runs a regulatory regime that is tight on compliance but pragmatic in practice. When new industries emerge — most recently blockchain and digital assets — the legal framework adapts rather than resists.
Over 25 years here has taught us where Liechtenstein fits. It’s not the cheapest option in our portfolio — not by a considerable margin — but when a client needs European prestige, serious regulatory infrastructure, and a jurisdiction their banking partners already respect, this is where we point them.
Why businesses choose Liechtenstein
European Access Without EU Membership
If EEA access is non-negotiable and you want to avoid EU overhead, Liechtenstein delivers both — EEA passporting across 30 countries without the regulatory weight of full EU membership. For financial services, fintech, and holding structures where banking partners need to see a jurisdiction they already respect, this places Liechtenstein alongside Luxembourg and Switzerland as a starting point that doesn’t require explanation.
Zero Withholding, Simple Fiscal System
No withholding taxes on dividends, interest, royalties, or fees paid to non-residents. Capital gains from participations are exempt. The 12.5% corporate rate matches Cyprus and Ireland, but the fiscal system is deliberately simpler. For holding companies channelling international income, the effective tax burden is lower than almost any onshore European alternative.
Progressive Crypto and Blockchain Regulation
The 2020 Blockchain Act (TVTG) created dedicated legislation for tokenisation, digital asset custody, and blockchain service providers. Licensed operators supervised by the FMA can serve regulated counterparties that wouldn’t engage with an offshore-registered entity. For blockchain businesses that have outgrown the Caribbean, Liechtenstein is where they go next.
What You Can Do Here
Company Formation
AGs, GmbHs, foundations, and trusts — Liechtenstein's corporate structures serve holding companies, wealth management vehicles, and international trading entities with EEA market access.
View formation detailsFintech & Blockchain
TVTG-regulated licensing for token issuers, digital asset custodians, and trusted technology service providers, supervised by the FMA.
Learn moreNot for everyone
We’d recommend Liechtenstein when European credibility, regulatory substance, and the quality of your corporate infrastructure matter more than cost. It’s the right fit for businesses that need EEA treaty access, blockchain ventures seeking FMA supervision, and wealth management structures where Swiss Franc stability and banking relationships are essential.
It’s not the right fit if cost is the primary concern. Formation starts at €32,000 with CHF 50,000 minimum share capital, plus annual audit fees and a licensed local director. For straightforward holding structures, BVI or Belize deliver similar tax efficiency at a fraction of the price. For EU access at the same 12.5% rate, Cyprus offers a broader treaty network and lower setup costs. Liechtenstein earns its premium when prestige and depth of infrastructure are the priority.