The order of the steps
First the tax number, because without it you can't register a company or open an account. Then the LLC, with the foreigner as founder. Next the bank account, and here banks scrutinise foreign owners closely. Then the work permit, if the founder wants to be director. And finally the residence permit.
When people do it all themselves, they most often get stuck at the bank and with documents from abroad that need an apostille and translation. I tell you in advance what to prepare at home.
What's included
- A Ukrainian tax number for the foreigner.
- Translations and apostille of documents.
- LLC registration with articles for your model.
- Help with an account at a Ukrainian bank.
- A work permit for the director.
- Temporary residence permit.
Two routes to a residence permit through business
| Investment | Director under a work permit | |
|---|---|---|
| What's needed | A contribution of the amount set by law to the authorised capital | LLC, work permit, employment contract |
| Who it suits | Investors with capital | Entrepreneurs who run the business themselves |
| Requirements for the company | Proof of the investment | The company meets the requirements as an employer |
The required investment amount and how to prove it have to be checked at the time of filing. I cost both options for your budget.
Sole proprietorship for a foreigner
A foreigner can register as a sole proprietor, but only if they already hold a residence permit in Ukraine. That's why an LLC is usually chosen to start with. A comparison of the forms is on the sole proprietor registration page.
What else you'll need
Contracts with clients and suppliers, often bilingual: a cross-border contract. Protecting the name: a trademark. If you're buying premises, support with the property deal.
How it works
Your part: your passport and documents from abroad. The rest of the arrows are mine.
Law of Ukraine “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons” (Art. 4, grounds for temporary residence); Law of Ukraine “On Limited and Additional Liability Companies”; Law of Ukraine “On Employment of the Population”; Tax Code of Ukraine (taxpayer registration number).
Frequently asked questions about business for foreigners
How much does it cost a foreigner to open a business in Ukraine?
From €150 per step. We price the package after a call; state fees and translations are separate.
Can everything be done remotely?
Some steps, such as the tax number and the LLC, can be done by power of attorney. The residence permit and the bank usually require you in person.
Can a foreigner be the sole founder of an LLC?
Yes.
How long does the whole route take?
It depends on your citizenship and documents. The LLC takes 3–5 days, the residence permit about two months.
The investor wanted to understand how to launch a restaurant in Ukraine legally. I designed the legal model for the opening: structure, documents, sequence of steps. A ready launch plan.
Read the case →Planning to hire other foreigners? See work permit. For families there's family reunification.