In this guide I walk you through the most important steps, so that administration does not become an obstacle and you can focus on customers and results.
Step 1: Think through your plan
Before registering, it is worth answering a few key questions:
- Who will be your customers?
- What do you actually sell: services, goods, or both?
- How will you price your work?
- Do you have enough financial buffer for the first months?
A short business plan helps you stay realistic and prevents expensive adjustments later.
Step 2: Choose your legal form
Most starters choose between:
- sole proprietorship
- BV (private limited company)
Each has different consequences for taxation, liability and administration. If you are unsure, it is better to discuss it first than to change later.
Step 3: Register your business
Registration usually runs via an accredited business counter. There, your company is added to the Belgian Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (KBO).
You will receive a company number, which you then activate for VAT if necessary.
Step 4: VAT registration
Not every entrepreneur must charge VAT, but most do. After activation, you submit periodic VAT returns and keep VAT-compliant invoices.
Unsure whether you fall under VAT or any exemptions? Ask before you issue your first invoice.
Step 5: Social security
As a self-employed person, you pay social contributions through a social insurance fund. These contributions are based on your professional income and provide access to social protection.
Step 6: Bank account and bookkeeping
It is wise to open a separate business bank account and keep your records organised from day one.
Digital tools make this much easier and save you unnecessary accounting costs.
My advice
Starting a business is easier when you have a clear roadmap. With the right sequence, registration becomes a formality instead of a source of stress.
During a consultation, we review together:
- which structure fits your plans
- whether VAT applies to your activity
- expected contributions and taxes
- how to organise your administration simply