Choose your legal structure

First, you need to define the form of your activity.

The two most common structures are:

This choice depends on your income level, activity, and long-term strategy.

Register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE)

Registration with the CBE officially establishes your activity.

It allows you to obtain your enterprise number.

This step is usually done through an accredited business counter such as Group S.

Activate your VAT number

If your activity is subject to VAT, you must activate your number.

This means:

• charging VAT to your clients
• submitting periodic VAT declarations
• paying VAT to the government

VAT is not income—you collect it on behalf of the tax authorities.

Join a social insurance fund

All self-employed individuals must join a social insurance fund.

This allows you to pay social contributions, which cover:

• pension
• healthcare
• family allowances
• bridging rights in case of difficulty

Set up your accounting

Even a small activity requires proper accounting.

This includes:

• invoicing
• expense tracking
• tax declarations
• VAT management

Most independents work with an accountant.

Take out necessary insurance

Certain insurances help secure your activity.

For example:

• professional liability insurance
• income protection insurance
• legal protection

These are especially important depending on your profession.