More and more Ukrainians are considering starting a business in Europe. Some want to work with European clients, some want to legalize their stay through entrepreneurship, and others are looking for a stable jurisdiction to scale.
But the key question is the same for everyone: which European country is best for opening a company?
In this article, we compare popular European countries for starting a business, honestly outline their pros and cons, and explain why, in practice, Poland most often becomes the optimal choice for Ukrainians.
Tell us about your idea — we will recommend where and how to start a business in your specific situation.
What Should You Consider Before Opening a Company in Europe?
Before choosing a country, it’s important to look beyond taxes. In practice, businesses “break” in completely different places.
- whether a foreigner has the right to open a company;
- whether the business can serve as a basis for legalization;
- the cost of accounting and administration;
- bank accounts and compliance/financial monitoring;
- realistic registration and launch timelines.
Estonia: Convenient Online, but not for Living
Estonia is known for its e-Residency program. A company can be opened remotely, without relocating.
Pros:
- online registration;
- convenient digital services;
- corporate income tax only when profits are distributed.
Cons:
- does not grant the right to reside in the country;
- it can be difficult to open a bank account without physical presence;
- increased scrutiny under KYC and AML.
Germany: Prestigious, but Expensive and Complex
Germany attracts people with its large market and strong reputation. But for small businesses it is often too heavy and complicated.
Cons:
- high taxes;
- expensive accounting;
- complex bureaucracy;
- strict inspections.
For Ukrainians, Germany rarely becomes the first step in business.
Czechia and Slovakia: Close, but With Limitations
These countries are often considered due to geographical and cultural proximity.
However:
- there are restrictions for foreigners;
- business does not always lead to legalization;
- banks operate cautiously.
For startups — possibly. For mass entrepreneurship — not always convenient.
Spain and Portugal: Great to Live, But not Easy to Run a Business
Southern countries attract people with their climate and lifestyle.
But:
- a complex tax system;
- high social contributions;
- slow bureaucracy.
Often, people open a business there after obtaining a residence permit, not the other way around.
Poland: the Optimal Balance for Ukrainians
In practice, Poland has become the key country for Ukrainian business in Europe — and for good reason.
Why Poland?
- transparent legislation;
- a real right for foreigners to open a business;
- affordable accounting;
- workable bank accounts;
- business as a basis for legalization.
Business forms in Poland
The most popular options:
- JDG — ideal for freelancers, IT, and consultants;
- Spółka z o.o. — for teams, partnerships, and scaling.
Both forms allow you to:
- operate officially;
- pay taxes in the EU;
- apply for a residence card;
- build a long-term residence strategy.
Why Is Professional Support Important When Opening a Business?
The most common problems entrepreneurs face:
- incorrectly selected PKD codes;
- tax mistakes;
- bank account freezes;
- residence card refusals.
That’s why it’s important not only to register a company, but to build a proper system around it.
The VisaV.pl team provides comprehensive support for Ukrainians in Poland:
- turnkey registration of a JDG or Spółka z o.o.;
- Polish accounting;
- tax planning;
- legalization through business;
- post-registration support.
We will recommend the optimal business form, register the company, and help with accounting and your residence card.
