Episode 2

Setting up your business in Luxembourg :
business permit and own premises

Créer une société au Luxembourg (autorisation d'établissement et locaux à privilégier) - Atlas Fiduciaire

Business permit and own premises – two often overlooked requirements

When starting a business in Luxembourg, many founders focus first on choosing the legal structure, dividing the capital, or drafting the articles of association. However, two key requirements should be addressed from the very beginning to avoid administrative hurdles: securing your business permit  and having suitable premises.

Often seen as simple formalities, these steps are actually essential for getting your business up and running smoothly.

1. Business permit : a mandatory step

Any commercial, artisanal, or professional activity in Luxembourg requires an business permit issued by the Ministry of the Economy, with only limited exceptions.

1.1 Who submits the application ?

The permit must be requested by :

✅ the company itself, and

✅ the individual responsible for daily management (usually the director or a technical manager).

This person must demonstrate :

  • professional integrity,
  • relevant experience or qualifications,
  • the ability to manage the business.

1.2 Why is it mandatory ?

Without the permit, the company cannot start its operations.

This can lead to :

  • operational delays,
  • additional costs,
  • or even the temporary inability to issue invoices or sign commercial contracts.

Planning for this step is therefore essential to ensure a smooth start.

2. Suitable premises : an essential requirement

Contrary to common belief, a simple “mailbox” address or standard registered office is not sufficient for all types of activities.

The Ministry requires companies to have premises suitable for their business, which entails:

2.1. An address that truly reflects the business activity

The premises must allow the business to operate as described in the permit application.
For example:

  • A consultant can use a small office,
  • A trading company must have suitable storage or logistics space,
  • A craftsman must show that they have a compliant workshop.

2.2. A legal and verifiable occupation

The ministry may require :

  • A lease,
  • A use agreement,
  • Or proof of actual access to the premises.

The authorities increasingly check that the premises match the business activity, particularly to prevent artificial setups or fictitious addresses.

3. Common mistakes

Here are the pitfalls we most often observe among new business founders :

❌ Submitting a permit application without suitable premises, leading to refusal or a delay.

❌ Underestimating the timelines, as obtaining the permit can take several weeks.

❌ Choosing a registered office that does not match the actual business activity.

❌ Appointing a manager who does not meet the professional integrity or qualification requirements.

4. How Atlas Fiduciaire can support you ?

We help founders secure these key steps upfront to ensure a smooth business launch :

  • Project analysis and identification of administrative requirements.
  • Assistance in preparing and submitting the business permit  application.
  • Advice on different types of premises and selecting suitable solutions.

  • Preparation of the governance file and support for company directors.

Our goal is to help you avoid surprises and accelerate the launch of your business.

➡️ Interested in setting up a company in Luxembourg ?

Let’s discuss all the steps you need to follow, including obtaining the business permit  and finding suitable premises for your future business.

At Atlas Fiduciaire, we put our expertise at the service of your vision.

Have a project or questions? Let’s talk!

Schedule a meeting with us to define your project and receive personalized support, tailored to your business needs in Luxembourg.

Contact us