For foreign entrepreneurs wishing to establish a company within the European Union, “speed”, “cost”, and “reliability” rarely come together at the same time. Lithuania has been attracting attention in recent years because it can offer this trio under one roof thanks to its digital state infrastructure, competitive tax regime, and direct access to the EU single market. Moreover, since many processes can be managed remotely, establishing a company in Lithuania becomes operationally accessible for most investors.
Why Lithuania? What is the Main Need of Foreign Entrepreneurs?
The basic goals of foreigners wishing to incorporate abroad are generally similar: to trade with a reputable legal entity within the EU, to make tax burdens predictable, to access banking and payment infrastructure seamlessly, and to obtain residency/mobility advantages if necessary. Lithuania stands out among countries that can respond to these needs without falling into the “offshore” perception, within EU compliance and with digitized procedures.
In this article, we detail the advantages of establishing companies for foreigners in Lithuania under the headings of tax, setup time, costs, access to the EU market, and mobility.
1) Tax Advantages: Competitive Rates and Structural Flexibility
Low corporate tax and a rate that can drop to 5% under certain conditions
The corporate tax rate in Lithuania is generally 15%. However, for companies meeting certain qualifications, this rate can drop to 5%. Additionally, in some scenarios, more advantageous practices for reinvested profits can be observed. This structure helps maintain cash flow, especially for growth-focused ventures.
Dividend tax and profit distribution planning
The general approach to dividend income in Lithuania is the application of a 15% rate. In foreign-owned structures, dividend planning should be evaluated not only based on the rate but also on distribution timing, parent-subsidiary relationships, and the situations covered by agreements.
Double taxation treaties
Lithuania has signed double taxation treaties with numerous countries (research data indicates counts like 53 countries and over 80 countries; the scope may vary based on the currency of the agreements and the counting methodology). These treaties aim to reduce the risk of the same income being taxed twice, both in Lithuania and in the country where the investor resides. For companies engaged in cross-border trade, this issue directly affects the total tax cost of the investment.
Additional incentives with Special Economic Zones (SEZ)
For companies operating in certain special economic zones (SEZ) in Lithuania, incentives such as the non-application of corporate tax in the initial years may come into play. Since the scope of incentives varies by region, type of activity, and investment conditions, a suitability analysis before decision-making is critically important.
No wealth tax and exit tax
According to research data, the absence of wealth tax and exit tax in Lithuania stands out as a factor that can increase predictability, especially in asset planning and share transfer strategies. However, investors must also evaluate the rules in their own countries (CFC, withholding, residency, controlled foreign corporation regulations, etc.).
2) Fast and Digital Company Establishment Process: Remote Setup Opportunity
Ability to establish the company online and complete transactions with e-signature
Lithuania is known for its advanced digital services and e-signature systems. According to research data, it is possible to carry out company establishment entirely online; forms can be presented in English, and transactions can be completed with an electronic signature. This approach particularly facilitates coordination in structures with founders from different countries.
Registration time: Online 3–4 business days
In practice, the online registration process can be completed in a short time of 3–4 business days. For physical applications, this period may extend to approximately 8 business days. It is also noted that the operational start-up time can progress quickly after the official establishment.
Remote establishment via power of attorney without going to Lithuania
One of the strongest advantages for foreigners is the ability to establish the company without the need to go to Lithuania through an agent and power of attorney. This reduces time and travel costs; it also accelerates the investment decision.
Practicality in required documents
Generally, the process proceeds with the preparation of the following information:
- Passport copy and identification information
- Residence/Address information (residence certificate, etc.)
- Company name and business activity
- Partnership/representation information according to the establishment structure
Since most of the documents can be submitted digitally, the management of the process progresses in a more “remote-compatible” manner.
3) Cost Effectiveness: Low Fees, Reasonable Operational Expenses
Establishment fees and main company types
Two structures frequently considered by foreigners in Lithuania are UAB (private limited/closed joint stock-like) and MB (small partnership). According to research data:
- The state fee for establishing a UAB is approximately 57 EUR.
- Notary fees can vary between 72–290 EUR depending on the process.
- For MB, the fees are indicated as 189 EUR or 259 EUR depending on the e-signature situation.
These figures provide a framework that lowers the “entry barrier” compared to incorporating within the EU. Of course, the total cost consists of more than just fees; items such as legal services, accounting setup, address/secretarial, bank/EMI account opening, and licensing needs determine the overall budget.
Minimum capital and capital efficiency
Research data indicates that the minimum authorized capital amount for ready-made companies is 1,000 EUR. The capital requirement should be evaluated along with the target sector and bank/payment institution expectations. In some sectors (especially regulated areas), while “paper minimum capital” may seem sufficient, operational reality may create a higher funding need.
General operating expenses
Office rents and general operating expenses in Lithuania are positioned at lower levels compared to many major centers in Europe. This situation creates an advantage, especially for cost-sensitive startups, e-commerce companies, and teams engaged in service exports.
4) Access to the EU Market: 27 Countries, 450+ Million Consumers
Ease of cross-border trade with EU membership
A company established in Lithuania can conduct commercial transactions among the 27 EU members without customs barriers. This practical advantage facilitates the expansion of businesses wishing to scale into a broader market with a “single EU legal entity”. Research data emphasizes that the EU single market provides access to over 450 million consumers.
VAT number and intra-EU VAT mechanics
Companies registered in Lithuania can obtain a VAT number. In intra-EU B2B transactions, mechanisms such as reverse charge can contribute to cash flow and price competitiveness when correctly structured. The critical aspect here is the correct design of the business model (service/product), customer location, and invoicing chain.
No currency control and freedom of money transfer
According to research data, the absence of currency control in Lithuania and the ability to make free money transfers with local bank accounts facilitate the financial operations of international trade. This flexibility is particularly important for companies operating in multiple currencies.
5) Residency and Mobility Advantages: Starting a Business Can Open the Path to Residency Rights
Company ownership can provide grounds for residency permits
Owning a business in Lithuania can be considered a valid reason for applying for a residency permit under suitable conditions. Research data mentions criteria such as the applicant owning at least 1/3 of the company, the company being operational for at least 6 months, and having Lithuanian citizen employees. Since these conditions can vary on a case-by-case basis, the application should be considered in conjunction with the company’s actual activities and employment plan.
Free movement in the Schengen area
The residency permit status can provide significant freedom of movement that reduces visa processes in the Schengen area. In terms of business development, client meetings, and participation in fairs, this mobility directly affects the growth rate of the company.
General pathway to permanent residency and citizenship
Research data indicates that citizenship can be discussed after 10 years on the standard route, and 7 years if married. Since citizenship and long-term residency processes can vary greatly, checking current regulations and conducting a personalized suitability analysis is essential.
6) Credibility and Legal Status: Positioning Within the EU Without Offshore Perception
An important advantage of Lithuanian companies is that they are not seen as part of the “offshore” class. This situation creates value in terms of market reputation among corporate clients, payment institutions, and international business partners. Additionally, structures like UAB provide an EU-compliant framework, thus offering a more predictable ground in contracts, financial reporting, and compliance standards.
Lithuania’s approach to financial reporting and international transparency standards (such as OECD CRS frameworks) also facilitates the management of business with a “corporate language”. This also means that the process is fast, but compliance obligations are serious; without proper accounting and reporting, advantages cannot be sustainable.
7) Business Environment and Technology: Digital State, Fintech Ecosystem, and Use of English
Lithuania supports “remotely manageable” company operations with its advanced digital infrastructure and e-signature systems. The widespread use of English in business and legal services is also a practical advantage for foreigners. Moreover, the country is known for its growing startup ecosystem, particularly in the fintech sector.
Research data also includes a score/ranking information about Lithuania from the World Bank’s perspective on ease of doing business. Since rankings change over the years, it is healthier to consider this as a “guiding indicator” and check current indicators during the decision-making phase.
8) Accounting, Payroll, and Operations: Details that Make the Advantage Permanent
Establishing a company in Lithuania can be fast; however, the aspect that makes the business sustainable is the discipline of accounting, payroll, VAT compliance, and annual financial reporting. Research data points to the obligation to submit annual financial reports and regular notifications of salary information.
Especially for companies selling within the EU, if VAT processes, e-invoicing logic, payroll accounts, and employee employment are not designed correctly, the initial tax/cost advantage can quickly turn into compliance costs.
Addressing Company Establishment in Lithuania “End-to-End” with Corpenza
Company establishment is often not a goal in itself; it gains meaning together with banking/payment infrastructure, accounting systems, VAT structuring, employment plans, and if necessary, residency strategies. At this point, professional support plays a critical role not only for document tracking but also for correct structure selection and reducing compliance risks.
Corpenza addresses the need for incorporation in Lithuania with a focus on international business development and mobility, considering tax-accounting, payroll/EOR, and employee mobility. Thus, it focuses on designing an operational model suitable not only for the establishment of the company but also for sustainable scaling within the EU.
- Selection of company type and partnership structure (UAB/MB, etc.)
- Establishment process and remote management structure
- Accounting & reporting arrangement and VAT operation
- Payroll/EOR and cross-border team building scenarios
- If necessary, residency and mobility roadmap
Conclusion: Lithuania Offers a Combination of “Fast Setup + Competitive Tax + Strong Mobility” for Foreigners Within the EU
Establishing a company in Lithuania stands out with competitive rates such as 15% corporate tax and 5% under certain conditions, incentives in special economic zones, speed advantages like online registration in 3–4 business days, relatively low fees, and access to the EU single market. Additionally, the residency and Schengen mobility advantages that can be shaped through business ownership make the country attractive not only from the perspective of “company establishment” but also from the perspective of “positioning in Europe”.
However, every advantage requires a well-structured compliance and operational model. Tax treaties, VAT arrangements, reporting disciplines, and employment plans are the main elements determining the success of the decision.
Disclaimer
This content is for general informational purposes only; it does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Regulations and practices may change over time; therefore, it is recommended to check current official sources and seek professional support before making a decision.
