Legal services · Czech Republic

Company formation and business legal services in Czech Republic

Foreigners and international businesses regularly form and operate companies in the Czech Republic.

In brief

Foreigners can generally form and own a Czech company, including an s.r.o. (spol. s r.o.). The process typically involves preparing corporate documents, obtaining a trade licence, securing a registered office address, completing notarial steps and registering with the Czech Commercial Register (obchodní rejstřík). Remote incorporation by power of attorney is possible in many cases. PEERS Czechia assists with each stage in English.

How we can assist

Formation of s.r.o. (LLC), a.s. (joint-stock company) and other legal structures
Acquisition and transfer of ready-made shelf companies where available
Remote incorporation by power of attorney where permitted
Trade licence (živnostenský list) applications and business permit coordination
Drafting and review of shareholders' agreements, articles of association and corporate documents
Business contracts, supplier agreements and commercial terms
Tax registration, VAT (DPH) registration and corporate income tax coordination
Coordination with accountants, tax advisors and notaries
Registered office address coordination if required
Ownership transfers, share sales and corporate restructuring
Company liquidation and closing procedures

Typical situations we advise on

A foreigner wants to start an online business or e-commerce operation in Czechia

An international investor wants to acquire a Czech company or establish a subsidiary

A freelancer needs to choose between an s.r.o. and a sole trader structure (OSVČ)

A foreign company is expanding into the Czech Republic and needs a local legal entity

An existing Czech company needs to restructure, add partners or transfer ownership

A business owner needs to close or liquidate a Czech company

How it works

Initial assessment

We review your business goals, ownership structure and residency situation to recommend the right legal entity and approach.

Document preparation

We prepare or coordinate the Memorandum of Association, trade licence application, registered office agreement and other required documents.

Notarial and registration steps

We coordinate notarial certification (where required), filing with the Commercial Register and trade licensing authority. Remote steps by power of attorney where possible.

Post-formation coordination

We assist with tax registration, VAT (DPH) application and connect you with accountants or payroll providers if needed.

Documents you may need

Helpful to have ready

Passport or national ID of all founders and directors
Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement) — may require apostille
Proposed company name (check availability in advance)
Planned business activities and trade licence categories
Registered office address in Czechia
Details of share capital contributions (minimum CZK 1 for s.r.o.)

Frequently asked questions

Can a foreigner start a company in the Czech Republic?

In most cases, yes. Foreign nationals from both EU and non-EU countries can generally establish and own Czech companies, including an s.r.o. There are no general restrictions on foreign ownership, though certain regulated sectors may have specific requirements. We recommend an initial assessment based on your nationality and business type.

What is an s.r.o. in Czech Republic?

An s.r.o. (společnost s ručením omezeným) is the Czech equivalent of a limited liability company (LLC). It is the most common legal structure used by small and medium businesses and foreign entrepreneurs in Czechia. The minimum registered capital is CZK 1. Shareholders are liable only up to their contribution.

How long does company formation take in Czech Republic?

Formation typically takes several weeks once all documents are in order and notarial steps are complete. Timelines depend on the notary schedule, trade licensing authority processing and Commercial Register registration. We can advise on expected timelines based on your specific situation. Please note: we do not guarantee timelines, as these depend on Czech authorities.

Do I need to come to Prague to set up a company?

Many steps can be handled remotely using a power of attorney (plná moc). Depending on your situation, you may not need to visit Prague at all. We can advise on what is possible remotely versus what requires your personal attendance.

What is a trade licence (živnostenský list) in Czech Republic?

A živnostenský list is a Czech trade licence required for most self-employed business activities (OSVČ). It authorises a specific range of business activities. Foreigners can generally obtain a trade licence; the requirements depend on nationality and planned activities.

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