Business operators and asset owners recognize Liechtenstein as one of Europe’s most attractive low-tax jurisdictions. This article provides a detailed review of the average costs required to establish and maintain a standard Aktiengesellschaft (AG) company in Liechtenstein, with breakdowns based on official sources for 2025.
Overview of Company Creation Costs in Liechtenstein (2025)
Establishing a company in Liechtenstein, particularly an Aktiengesellschaft (AG), involves various statutory fees and financial commitments. The following table summarizes the primary cost components involved in company registration and incorporation procedures in 2025:
| Cost Item | Amount (CHF) | Approx. (USD)* |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum capital requirement | CHF 50,000 | $55,000 |
| Paid-in capital at incorporation (min. required) | CHF 50,000 | $55,000 |
| Commercial Register fee | CHF 700 | $770 |
| Notary fees | CHF 1,500 | $1,650 |
| Legal and advisory fees (average) | CHF 2,000 | $2,200 |
| Publication fees | CHF 300 | $330 |
| Total Direct Setup Fees (excluding minimum capital) | CHF 12,000 | $13,200 |
*USD conversions at 1 CHF = 1.10 USD (2025 average market rate; for reference only)
It is critical to note that the minimum share capital (CHF 50,000 / $55,000) must be fully paid in at incorporation for an AG and is not a fee, but rather invested capital held as company equity.
Ongoing Maintenance Costs for an AG in Liechtenstein
Maintaining a Liechtenstein AG company requires covering a range of annual expenses. The following table provides clarity on the most relevant fixed costs for 2025:
| Annual Expense Item | Amount (CHF) | Approx. (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Register annual fee | CHF 200 | $220 |
| Mandatory accounting/auditing (min., small company) | CHF 2,000 | $2,200 |
| Legal address/registered office (average) | CHF 1,000 | $1,100 |
| Tax filing and compliance | CHF 500 | $550 |
| Other administrative costs | CHF 500 | $550 |
| Estimated Annual Running Costs | CHF 3,500 – CHF 8,000 | $3,850 – $8,800 |
Yearly maintenance varies due to business volume, scope of required auditing, and additional compliance needs.
Cost Breakdown Analysis
The statutory minimum capital of CHF 50,000 (or $55,000) is the most significant upfront requirement, typical of Liechtenstein’s rigorous company standards. Actual direct formation costs (excluding capital requirements) usually range around CHF 12,000 ($13,200). Annual running costs commonly fall between CHF 3,500 and CHF 8,000 ($3,850–$8,800), reflecting a predictable maintenance profile for small to mid-sized AGs. All professional service fees (e.g., notary, legal, registered office) reflect standard Liechtenstein market rates validated through government and reputable advisory sources.
Official Sources for Company Costs Information in Liechtenstein
- Government of Liechtenstein
- Liechtenstein Business Portal
- Official Liechtenstein Information
- LGT Global
Pro Tips for Company Formation and Maintenance in Liechtenstein
- Consider using local advisors with proven government registration experience to minimize compliance delays and manage notary and registration fees efficiently.
- Plan for full minimum capital (CHF 50,000 / $55,000) deposit at formation, as this is strictly enforced and must be available prior to company activation.
- Budget for annual statutory accounting—even smaller AGs are subject to formal financial reporting and occasional auditing under Liechtenstein law.
- Identify local administrative partners early for cost-effective registered address solutions, as non-resident directors may face additional compliance steps.
- Stay informed about regulatory updates via the Government of Liechtenstein main website to ensure annual filings and fees are current.
In summary, Liechtenstein’s company setup and maintenance rates are straightforward, with a high but clear statutory capital barrier and professional-grade recurring costs. The regulatory framework promotes transparency, and the ongoing expenses are predictable versus other jurisdictions. For 2025, operators can expect robust security for corporate assets, in line with the principality’s international reputation and business-friendly climate. Anyone considering Liechtenstein should pay close attention to the minimum capital requirements and prepare their compliance process in advance to ensure a seamless establishment and year-on-year operation.