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Establish a foundation in Liechtenstein: a secure locker
For wealthy private individuals, entrepreneurs and investors, Liechtenstein offers an extremely attractive option for the protection and strategic transfer of their assets. Establishing a foundation in Liechtenstein not only creates legal advantages, but also facilitates succession planning, helps with tax optimisation and guarantees maximum discretion and limitation of liability.
Advantages of a foundation in Liechtenstein
- Asset protection
A Liechtenstein foundation separates the assets contributed from the founder and thus prevents creditors of the founder from accessing the foundation's assets. In addition, the foundation's assets are protected from liability claims against the founder and beneficiaries.
- Succession planning
The Liechtenstein foundation is ideal for succession planning, as the founder can fully determine how and for what purpose the foundation's assets are used after his death. This means that assets are preserved for generations and prevents heirs from being wasteful with the assets or inheritance disputes arising.
- Tax advantages
Liechtenstein offers numerous tax reliefs and tax exemptions for foundations. There are No inheritance or gift tax, while German foundations are subject to inheritance tax every 30 years. Thanks to the favourable tax laws, a foundation in Liechtenstein is ideal for long-term wealth planning.
- Stability & reliability
Liechtenstein is known for its stable legal system and sustainable economic policy. The location offers political and economic protection and guarantees a high level of legal certainty.
- Discretion & data protection
Liechtenstein attaches great importance to protecting the privacy of founders and beneficiaries. There is no general obligation to publish founders and beneficiaries.
How the foundation works
1
Planning and preparation
The first step is to define the purpose of the foundation:
•Private purposes: Asset protection & succession planning
•Charitable purposes: Promotion of education, science, art or environmental protection
•Mixed purposes: Combination of private and non-profit purposes
The Board of Trustees must consist of at least two members must exist. One of these persons must be a Liechtenstein trustee or a person with equivalent status.
2
Preparation of the founding documents
The Foundation declaration is the central document and defines the name and purpose of the foundation, as well as the assets contributed. The Foundation statutes contain detailed regulations on the organisation and administration of the foundation.
3
Deposit of the foundation capital
The minimum capital of 30,000 CHF must be paid into a bank account in Liechtenstein prior to registration. Alternatively, tangible assets such as real estate and securities can also be contributed.
4
Entry in the foundation register
The foundation must be registered with the Liechtenstein Foundation Supervisory Authority. In the case of private foundations, only limited information is published in order to maintain discretion.
Costs of setting up a foundation
- Formation costs
10,000 - 30,000 CHF
- Minimum capital: CHF 30,000
- Notary fees: CHF 1,500 - 3,000
- Registration fees: 700 - 1,200 CHF
- Consultancy: CHF 5,000 - 15,000
- Running costs (per year)
10,000 - 30,000 CHF
- Board of Trustees: CHF 5,000 - 20,000
- Accounting: CHF 2,000 - 10,000
Conclusion
The advantages of a foundation in Liechtenstein are manifold and enable assets to be efficiently managed, protected and strategically transferred. From tax incentives and asset protection to succession planning, discretion and flexibility, the Liechtenstein foundation offers an ideal legal and financial framework for wealthy private individuals, entrepreneurs and investors.
With NTX Legal, you have an experienced partner at your side to help you make the most of all the advantages of a foundation in Liechtenstein. We support you from the initial consultation through to the establishment and long-term management of your foundation - customised to your individual needs.
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As an unbeatable collective of established entrepreneurs, renowned lawyers and experienced tax advisors, we are a reliable partner at your side - for tax optimisation, foreign companies, global expansion banking, emigration or asset protection.