Have you ever wondered why the community of Romanian entrepreneurs in Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels is growing so rapidly, despite Belgium's reputation as a "country of taxes"?
Belgium offers one of the most stable economic infrastructures in Europe, and self-employment status gives you the freedom to manage your time and income well above a simple salary ceiling.
However, the reality is harsh: 1 in 3 new businesses fail within the first two years due to poorly managed bureaucracy or tax fines that can reach thousands of euros.
It doesn't have to be your case. In this guide, we break down the registration process step by step so you can launch your business safely, taking advantage of all legal deductions available in 2026.
1. Strategy Analysis: What type of business in Belgium suits you?
Before filing any paperwork, you need to decide on the "intensity" of your activity. In Belgium, the legislation is flexible and allows you to test the market.
Hoofdberoep vs. Bijberoep: What's the difference?
- Self-employed as main activity (Hoofdberoep): This is your only source of income. Social contributions are higher (minimum ~€900/quarter), but you get full social protection.
- Self-employed as secondary activity (Bijberoep): Ideal if you're already employed at least 50% of full-time. It's the perfect way to launch a business in Belgium with minimal risks, paying reduced social contributions (~€100/quarter).
2. Legal Structure: Sole Proprietorship (Eenmanszaak) or Company (BV)?
Choosing the right legal structure is the foundation of your credibility with banks and clients.
- Sole Proprietorship (Eenmanszaak): Easier to set up, cheaper accounting, but your personal assets are directly linked to the business.
- Limited Company (BV/SRL): Recommended for businesses with higher turnover. The big advantage? Limited liability — your home and personal savings are protected in case of bankruptcy. Since 2019, a minimum share capital of €18,500 is no longer required, but you need a solid financial plan.
3. Administrative Steps: How to start a business in Belgium without errors
To obtain the right to invoice legally, follow this mandatory path. Any omission can lead to activity suspension.
a) Professional Bank Account
It is mandatory for the business to have a separate account from your personal one. This is the first rule of financial hygiene to avoid complicated tax audits.
b) Registration at KBO / BCE (Business Counter)
You need to register at an authorized counter (e.g., Xerius, Liantis). Here you will receive your Enterprise Number.
- Cost 2026: Approximately €109.50.
- Important: You must correctly choose the NACE codes (the activities you will carry out).
c) VAT (BTW) Activation
If your turnover exceeds €25,000/year, you must activate your VAT number.
Expert tip: Even if you're below the threshold, it can sometimes be advantageous to be VAT-registered to deduct taxes on large purchases (car, tools, laptop).
d) Social Insurance Funds
Registration is mandatory before starting your activity. This guarantees your access to the healthcare and pension system.
4. Costs, Taxes and Optimization: The secret to profitability
A successful business is not one that earns a lot, but one that keeps a lot after taxes.
- The Golden Rule of Retention: Set aside 35-40% of each invoice. This is the government's money (Income tax + Contributions).
- Expense deductions: You can deduct office rent, fuel, phone bills, and even part of home utilities if you work remotely.
- The Role of the Accountant: An accountant specializing in Romanians in Belgium is not an expense, but an investment. They can save you thousands of euros through correct application of deductions.
5. Payrolling through Tentoo: The no-bureaucracy testing solution
If you're not ready to take on the responsibility of a company, you can use Tentoo. You work as a freelancer but get paid as an employee. It's the fastest way to see if your business idea has traction in the Belgian market without going through the entire BCE registration process.
Conclusion: Your business deserves to be seen!
Once you have your paperwork ready, the next step is to find clients. A successful business needs visibility in the Romanian community.
📢 Register your business on Romanian Business Hub to be easily found by clients in your area. Whether you're a plumber, programmer, beautician or consultant, we help you be just one click away from those who need you.
Have questions about the process? Contact us through our support group!