Business registration and support in Ukraine for foreign founders
Viaduk consulting supports foreign citizens and companies opening a business in Ukraine. We analyse the planned business model, explain the available forms of presence and give recommendations on the structure, the composition of participants and the governing bodies — the decisions on founders, the head and the operating model are made by the client. We take on the preparation of the non-resident’s documents, registration, and the organisation of accounting and tax support after launch. Before work begins we agree the scope of services, the sequence of actions, the documents required, possible additional costs and any matters that need the client’s involvement or the engagement of other specialists.
Business registration and support in Ukraine
LLC or representative office of a foreign company
The most common choice for a foreign founder starting activity in Ukraine is a Ukrainian LLC. A representative office of a foreign company is a different legal form with different possibilities and limitations; the decision depends on the purpose of the presence in Ukraine and requires a separate legal check for your situation.
LLC with a foreign founder
An independent Ukrainian legal entity. It can carry on commercial activity, enter into contracts, hire employees and open accounts in its own name.
Representative office of a foreign company
Not a separate legal entity — it acts on behalf of the parent company within the limits set by law. Suitable for representative and auxiliary functions, and not always for full commercial activity.
This is a general explanation for orientation, not legal advice: an LLC here is not the full equivalent of any foreign organisational form — only its closest functional analogue. We take the specific decision after a short consultation about the purpose of the business’s presence in Ukraine.
What we organise once the form of presence is chosen
- Preparation and filing of the registration documents for the chosen form.
- Coordination of the opening of a bank account — the decision is made by the bank.
- Tax registration and, where necessary, registration as a VAT payer.
- Transition to ongoing accounting and tax support after launch.
Related matters we coordinate with specialist partners
Questions of residence and employment of a founder or staff in Ukraine often require separate immigration-law specialists. Where necessary, we coordinate with specialist partners — this is not a separate Viaduk service, but an accompanying step in running a business.
Who this area is for
- Foreign citizens and companies who want to open a business in Ukraine.
- Foreign founders who already have an LLC in Ukraine and need further support.
- Companies that hire foreign specialists or IT professionals.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I start if I am a foreigner who wants to open a business in Ukraine?
First we clarify the purpose of your presence in Ukraine and the planned business model — this determines whether an LLC is suitable or whether a representative office should be considered. We then support the whole process from documents to tax registration. If you plan to work personally in the company, we arrange a work permit in parallel.
Does a foreign business owner who does not plan to live in Ukraine permanently need a residence permit?
No, a residence permit is not required for the status of LLC founder — it is needed only if the foreigner personally works or stays in the country on a long-term basis.
Do you consult in English?
Yes, consultations for foreign clients are available in English and Polish.
Tell us about your situation in Ukraine
A short introductory conversation is free of charge. We will suggest the structure recommended on the basis of your initial data, and the accompanying steps.
Discuss launching a business in Ukraine