Building Your Business: A Comprehensive Guide to Company Registration in Ukraine

by Roman Cheplyk
Tuesday, August 8, 2023
3 MIN
Building Your Business: A Comprehensive Guide to Company Registration in Ukraine

Starting a business in Ukraine can be a rewarding endeavor, but it requires careful planning, adherence to legal procedures, and a clear understanding of the registration process

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the steps of company registration in Ukraine:

1. Choose Your Business Structure: Determine the type of legal entity you want to establish. Common options include Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (JSC), and Representative Office.

2. Select a Business Name: Choose a unique name for your company that complies with Ukrainian naming regulations. The name must not be already registered by another company.

3. Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents, which may include the company's charter (founding documents), shareholder agreements, passports of founders, and the director's information.

4. Choose Company Directors: Appoint at least one director to manage the company's operations. Directors can be individuals or legal entities.

5. Determine Legal Address: Provide a legal address for your company, which will serve as the official business address. This can be a physical office or a legal entity that provides legal address services.

6. Notarize Documents: Notarize the company's charter and other founding documents. Notarization ensures the authenticity of the documents.

7. Obtain Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Obtain a TIN for all founders, directors, and authorized persons who will represent the company. This is required for tax purposes.

8. Register with the State Registrar: Submit the required documents to the State Registrar, which is responsible for registering businesses in Ukraine. This includes the company's charter, information about directors and shareholders, and other relevant details.

9. Pay Registration Fees: Pay the necessary registration fees. The fees vary based on the type of legal entity and other factors.

10. Obtain Extract from the State Registrar: Once your company is registered, obtain an extract (certificate) from the State Registrar as proof of registration. This document will be needed for various business activities.

11. Register with Tax Authorities: Register your company with the State Tax Service of Ukraine. You'll receive a Certificate of Registration as a VAT payer if applicable.

12. Open Bank Accounts: Open a corporate bank account in a Ukrainian bank. Some banks may require additional documents beyond the registration extract.

13. Register with Other Authorities: Depending on your business activities, you may need to register with other authorities, such as the Social Insurance Fund or the State Statistics Service.

14. Publish Information: Some types of companies are required to publish information about their establishment in an official publication called "Vidomosti Pryvatyzatsii i Derzhavnoho Rehuliuvannia" (Bulletin of Privatization and State Regulation).

15. Start Business Operations: With all necessary registrations and documents in place, you can commence your business operations in Ukraine.

It's important to note that the registration process may vary based on the specific legal structure and activities of your business. It's advisable to seek legal advice and assistance from professionals who are familiar with Ukrainian business regulations. Proper registration ensures that your business is compliant with local laws and regulations, setting you up for success in the Ukrainian business landscape.

You will be interested