How to Get a Business License in Belgium: Requirements, Costs & Process (2025)

Anyone individual or a legal entity that wants to conduct commercial, professional, or craft activities in Belgium must have both a valid business license and a Belgian ID.

To get a business license in Belgium in 2025, you must first choose a legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship or company) and register your business with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE). You’ll need to check if your business activities require specific permits based on regional regulations. Secure a business address, open a Belgian bank account, and provide required documents like identity proof, business plan, and articles of association (for companies). Register for VAT if applicable. Costs vary by business type and location. Once approved, you’ll receive your enterprise number, which allows you to legally operate in Belgium.

What is a Business License in Belgium?

A Belgian business license is an official permit to authorise individuals or companies to lawfully engage in activities of business, profession, or craftsmanship within Belgium. It is a document that proves the company complies with the regulatory, legal, and industry conditions under Belgian law. 

The license is usually based on the enterprise number of the firm, its business license Belgium ID, and is issued with registration in the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE). Based on activity type and area, there may also be a need for other permits or professional qualifications.

Who Needs a Business License in Belgium?

Any person or legal entity that intends to carry on a commercial, professional, or craft business in Belgium must have a valid business license and a valid Belgian ID. It is mandatory throughout all regions, with differing requirements depending on the size and type of enterprise. Selecting a proper legal form is a condition for registration and licensing. Below are the primary forms of Belgian business entities:

• Sole Proprietorship (Eenmanszaak / Entreprise individuelle): One owner, being responsible for all the liabilities and debts. It is straightforward in structure but with unlimited personal liability.
• Partnership (Vennootschap onder firma / Société en nom collectif): Established by two or more partners wherein the partners have control and they share the profits. The general partners have unlimited liability, while the limited partners enjoy limited liability up to the contribution.
• Private Limited Company (BV/SRL): A very common form with SMEs. Shareholders' liability is restricted to investment. There is flexibility in running the business and minimal capital requirements.
• Public Limited Company (NV/SA): For large-scale ventures with the possibility of selling shares to the general public. Greater capital and governance formalities are required, with shareholders' liability confined to shareholding.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a Business License in Belgium

Obtaining a Belgian business license is a step-by-step process that entails planning and rigid compliance with regulatory procedures. This part offers an overview of the most vital elements, from specifying your business idea to complying with post-licensing requirements, to help you open and run a lawfully admitted business in Belgium.

Step 1: Define Your Business Plan
Begin by outlining your business idea, including your products or services, target market, and revenue model. A well-developed business plan demonstrates the feasibility of your operations and supports licensing and financing applications.

Step 2: Conduct Market Research
Research your target audience, assess local demand, study competitors, analyse pricing, and identify market trends. This analysis strengthens your business case and supports strategic decisions.

Step 3: Choose a Business Location
Check the zoning regulations at the local town hall to ensure your intended activity is allowed at the selected location. Also, assess infrastructure, transport links, supplier proximity, utilities, and internet access are essential for operations.

Step 4: Register a Business Name
Use the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE) database to ensure your business name is available. The name must comply with Belgian legal standards, avoiding misleading or restricted terms like “bank” or “university.”

Step 5: Estimate Your Financial Requirements
Calculate your startup capital needs, including equipment, rent, staff, and marketing. For some legal forms (e.g. BV/SRL), proof of minimum capital may be required.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account
Set up a business bank account with a Belgian bank. This is necessary for handling company transactions, paying VAT, and meeting social security obligations.

Step 7: Gather All Required Documents
Prepare valid ID documents for founders and legal representatives. Create a full business plan with financial forecasts. Provide proof of your registered address via a lease or property deed. If forming a BV/SRL or NV/SA, notarised Articles of Association are also required.

Step 8: Submit Your Application Online
Apply via Belgium’s digital portals like My Enterprise or relevant regional platforms. The submission includes your legal structure, business activities (NACE codes), and location details.

Step 9: Register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE)
This step assigns your business an enterprise number (unique Belgian ID). It confirms that your business is officially recognised and licensed to operate in Belgium.

Step 10: Pay the Required Fees
Administrative and registration fees vary depending on business type and region. Ensure all payments are completed to avoid delays.

Step 11: Wait for Review and Approval
The government will verify your application and supporting documents. Authorities will also check compliance with zoning, tax, labour, and sector-specific regulations. Simple applications may be processed within 2–4 weeks, while complex cases may take several months.

Cost of a Business License in Belgium (2025)

In Belgium, the cost of a business licence depends on the type of business and location. It usually consists of registration costs, legal establishment charges, and occasionally registered office charges. Check whether a licence is required depending on the nature of your business and where it is situated. Other types of businesses can also involve additional authorisations or industry licenses, which can increase the ultimate price.

Conclusion 

Obtaining a business license in Belgium involves a structured process that includes defining your business model, selecting a legal structure, choosing a compliant location, registering your business name, preparing financials, and submitting required documents through official portals. All businesses must register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises and comply with local zoning, taxation, and sector-specific regulations. The timelines and fees may vary depending on your company type and region, but proper documentation and adherence to Belgian administrative requirements are essential for successful registration.