What is SRL / BV (Belgium)?
The SRL (société à responsabilité limitée) or BV (besloten vennootschap) is the private limited company, and the default form for Belgian SMEs. Since the 2019 Companies and Associations Code it has no minimum share capital.
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Example
Two founders incorporate an SRL by notarial deed with a financial plan showing enough start-up equity for the first two years. No minimum capital figure applies. An SA, by contrast, needs €61,500 fully paid up.
How SRL / BV (Belgium) works in Belgium
Founders must still make sure the SRL starts with enough equity for its planned activity for at least the first two years, taking account of other funding such as shareholder loans or bank finance. A financial plan has to be prepared. If the initial assets were insufficient, the founders remain liable.
An SRL can be set up by a single founder and is incorporated by notarial deed. Share transfers are restricted unless the articles say otherwise. The SA (société anonyme / naamloze vennootschap) is aimed at larger companies and requires minimum capital of €61,500, fully paid up. The SC (cooperative) needs three founding members.
AccountsOS does not submit incorporation filings. A notary handles the deed.
Related terms
The enterprise number (numéro d'entreprise / ondernemingsnummer) is the unique 10-digit identifier the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises gives every Belgian company, association and self-employed person. The VAT number is BE plus the same 10 digits.
The SME reduced rate taxes the first €100,000 of profit at 20% instead of 25% for qualifying small companies. The maximum saving is €5,000 a year. From tax year 2026, a director must receive at least €50,000 gross annual remuneration.
Belgian companies must file their annual accounts with the National Bank of Belgium within 30 days of the General Assembly approving them. The accounts then become public through the Central Balance Sheet Office.
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