Austria company registration: Everything about company registration in Austria

Everything you need to know about company registration in Austria: costs, steps and required documents

Austria is a prime location for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in Europe. The country’s stable economy, efficient legal framework, and investor-friendly policies make it an attractive choice. If you are planning to register a company in Austria, understanding the registration process, required documents, and associated costs is crucial. This guide outlines the essential steps and key considerations for a smooth Austria company registration process.

How to register a company in Austria

The process of company registration in Austria follows a structured procedure to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Here are the main steps:

Choose a business structure – Select the appropriate legal form, such as a sole proprietorship, limited liability company (GmbH), or stock corporation (AG).
Reserve a company name – Check and reserve the desired business name with the Austrian Commercial Register.
Draft articles of association – Prepare the foundational document outlining business objectives, ownership structure, and capital contributions.
Notarization of documents – The articles of association and shareholder agreements must be notarized.
Deposit share capital – If establishing a GmbH, a minimum share capital of €35,000 is required, with at least €10,000 paid upon registration.
Register with the Commercial Register (Firmenbuch) – Submit documents to the local court to formally establish the business.
Obtain tax number – Register with the Austrian Tax Office for Austrian tax number and VAT number.

Required documents and compliance rules for Austria company registration

To ensure successful Austria company registration, entrepreneurs must prepare specific documents and comply with local regulations:

Articles of association – A legally binding document outlining business activities and ownership details.
Proof of share capital deposit – Confirmation of initial capital deposit in a corporate bank account.
Notarized shareholder agreements – Officially verified agreements among company owners.
Business address registration – Proof of a registered business address in Austria.

How long does it take to register a company in Austria?

The timeframe for company registration Austria varies depending on the business structure and efficiency of document processing. Generally, the process takes between one and two weeks. Key factors affecting the duration include:

Type of business entity – A sole proprietorship can be registered faster than a GmbH or AG.
Document preparation and notarization – Delays in notarizing and submitting documents may extend processing time.
Bank account setup – The requirement to open a bank account in Austria can add extra time.
Tax registration – Obtaining an Austrian VAT number and a EU VAT number may take additional weeks.

Online vs. in-person company registration: What are the differences?

Entrepreneurs can complete Austria company registration either online or in person. Each method has its advantages and limitations:

Online registration – A faster and more convenient option, however, setting up an e-token for the signing will be necessary, otherwise certain notarization requirements may still require an in-person visit.
In-person registration – Allows face-to-face consultation and can be faster, as the signed documents can be submitted immediately to the registry court, avoiding delays from courier services.

Cost of company registration Austria

The Austria company registration cost depends on the chosen business structure and associated legal requirements. Common expenses include:

Commercial Register fees – Ranges from €100 to €500.
Legal fees – Typically between €1.800 and €2,500.
Notary and fees – Typically between €800 and €2,500.
Initial share capital deposit – Minimum of €10,000 for a GmbH.
Tax and social security registration fees – Varies based on business activity and number of employees.

Understanding the cost of company registration Austria is essential for budgeting and ensuring compliance with financial requirements.

Successfully opening a business in Austria requires careful planning, compliance with legal requirements, and proper financial preparation. Whether you opt for online or in-person registration, following the correct steps will streamline the process. With the right approach, you can efficiently complete opening a company in Austria and position your business for long-term success.

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Austria company registration: Everything you need to know about company registration in Austria

Key steps to register a company in Austria