Starting a business in Brussels: procedures, timelines and choosing the right workspace

Brussels is one of Europe’s most dynamic capitals for launching a business. Its central location, international character and diverse economy make it an attractive place for entrepreneurs, whether you are a freelancer, a startup or an established SME. But two major questions always come up: how long does it take to set up a company in Brussels, and what kind of workspace should you choose at the beginning ?

Administrative steps to get started

The very first step is to give your company legal existence. This means registering it with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE) through an accredited enterprise counter. The process is quick and provides you with a company number, which is essential for all further steps.

The next step is activating your VAT number with the Federal Public Service Finance, which usually takes about a week.

Opening a professional bank account is also mandatory. For small businesses this can often be done immediately, but sometimes banks require additional checks that can take a few days. It is also necessary to register with a social insurance fund and choose a health insurance provider. These steps are usually completed within a day.

Certain professions or activities may require additional permits or authorizations, such as an environmental permit or registration with a professional body. These procedures can extend the overall timeline by several weeks.

In practice, if everything is well prepared, a company can be legally operational within two to four weeks. Longer delays usually come from sector-specific authorizations rather than the basic registration itself.

Choosing the right workspace from the start

Once the administrative part is in order, the next decision is choosing the right office space. The answer depends largely on the size of your team and the stage of development of your business.

For solo entrepreneurs or very small teams, coworking spaces are often the most suitable option. They are flexible, cost-efficient, and place you in an inspiring environment surrounded by other entrepreneurs. For those who need more privacy, shared offices or small private spaces are also available, often starting from just a few square meters.

As the team grows to between three and fifteen people, needs evolve. Startups in this stage usually turn to flexible offices located in business centers or modern buildings. These solutions allow you to expand or reduce your space easily depending on your growth, while enjoying shared services such as meeting rooms. Premium coworking providers also offer private offices, which combine the professional image of a traditional office with the flexibility of a short-term lease.

For SMEs with fifteen or more employees, traditional office leases are the most common. Longer-term contracts allow companies to fully customize their space and build a strong identity. This requires more anticipation, since you’ll need time for selection, lease negotiation and any fit-out works.

How much time should you plan before moving in ?

For freelancers or micro-businesses, one month is usually enough: the time to finalize the paperwork and move into a coworking space. For a growing startup, two to three months are more realistic, to find the right office and sign the contract. For SMEs, the timeline extends to four to six months, given the complexity of negotiations and fit-out requirements.

The golden rule is to anticipate. Start your search at least six months before your current lease expires or your planned move-in date. This ensures a smooth transition and allows you to focus on growing your business rather than rushing the logistics.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Brussels is relatively straightforward and can be completed within a few weeks on the administrative side. The real challenge lies in choosing the right workspace that matches your current size and future ambitions.

Coworking is ideal for flexibility and getting started, flexible offices suit growing startups, and traditional buildings are the best option for established SMEs.

Never underestimate the importance of your work environment: it impacts employee well-being, your company’s image, and your ability to scale smoothly. At Mesh-immo, we guide entrepreneurs and business leaders every step of the way to find the workspace that truly fits their needs.

FAQ - Opening a business in Brussels

How long does it take to start a business in Brussels ?

On average, it takes two to four weeks if the file is complete. Basic steps like registering with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises and opening a bank account are fast. The process takes longer if sector-specific permits or authorizations are required.

What documents are required to launch a company in Brussels ?

You typically need a financial plan, the company statutes, a registered address (office or coworking space), and a professional bank account. The exact documents depend on the legal structure (SRL, SA, etc.).

Can I register my company at a coworking space ?

Yes, coworking spaces can serve as the legal address for a micro-enterprise or a startup. This is a popular solution for flexibility and cost savings.

What type of office is recommended for a startup in Brussels ?

For small teams of 3 to 15 people, flexible offices or private spaces within premium coworking facilities are the most suitable. They allow you to expand or downsize quickly without committing to long-term leases.

How much does it cost to rent an office in Brussels ?

A coworking desk typically costs between €200 and €400 per month. For office surfaces between 100 and 300 m², expect €150 to €250 per m² per year. Central areas like Louise or the European Quarter are more expensive than the North district or the outskirts.

When should I start looking for office space in Brussels ?

Ideally six months before the planned move-in date or the end of your current lease. This leaves enough time to compare options, negotiate terms, and plan fit-out works if necessary.