Reasons Foreigners Can Easily Register a Company in Finland 2026

Finland has firmly established itself as one of Europe’s most business-friendly, transparent, and digitally advanced economies. In 2026, the country continues to attract foreign entrepreneurs, startups, and international companies seeking a stable EU base with minimal bureaucracy and strong institutional support. With cutting-edge digital systems, a highly innovative business environment, and clear legal frameworks, more entrepreneurs are choosing to register a company in Finland than ever before.  

From technology startups to clean energy firms and international trading companies, Finland offers an efficient and reliable pathway into the European market. This article explains five key reasons why registering a company in Finland in 2026 is straightforward for foreigners, covering registration processes, ownership rules, taxation, banking access, and government support, as well as how OAEC simplifies the entire journey. 

Overview of Doing Business in Finland 

Finland offers an ideal environment for international business operations, backed by strong governance and advanced digital infrastructure. 

Business Climate Snapshot 

• EU member state with full single-market access 
• Politically stable with low corruption 
• Highly digitalised public administration 
• Strong legal protections for investors 

Key Sectors Attracting Foreign Investment 

• Technology and software development 
• Clean energy and sustainability 
• Manufacturing and engineering 
• Logistics and supply chain services 
• Research & development (R&D) 

Legal Structures Available to Foreigners 

Foreign entrepreneurs can choose from

• Oy (Osakeyhtiö) – Private Limited Liability Company (most popular) 
• Branch Office – Extension of a foreign company 
• Subsidiary – Separate Finnish legal entity owned by a foreign parent 

Among these, the Oy structure is the preferred choice for most non-resident founders. 

Reason 1 – Streamlined Company Registration Process 

One of the most significant advantages in 2026 is Finland’s fully digital incorporation system, making it easy to register a company remotely. 

Digital-First Registration 

Finland’s company formation process is built around efficiency and accessibility, making it especially attractive for international entrepreneurs in 2026. Company formation is handled through the Finnish Trade Register (PRH), allowing.

• Online submissions 
• Electronic signatures 
• English-language support for foreign founders 

This digital approach significantly reduces paperwork and enables foreigners to register a company in Finland quickly and remotely.

Typical Registration Timeline 

Most companies can be incorporated within 2–5 working days, depending on the readiness of the documents. 

Step-by-Step Overview 

1. Choose a company name and legal structure 
2. Prepare and digitally submit incorporation documents 
3. Obtain a Business ID (Y-tunnus) 
4. Register with the Finnish Tax Administration (Vero) 

How OAEC Helps? 

OAEC provides end-to-end support explicitly tailored for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in Finland. By handling the entire administrative and regulatory process, OAEC removes complexity and saves valuable time. OAEC manages

• Document preparation
• Digital filings 
• Remote incorporation for non-residents 
• Communication with Finnish authorities 

In addition, OAEC offers ongoing post-formation support, including tax registration, compliance guidance, and expansion advisory services. This allows foreign entrepreneurs to register a company in Finland without travelling. 

Reason 2 – 100% Foreign Ownership and Control 

Finland places no restrictions on foreign ownership, making it highly attractive to global entrepreneurs. Foreign founders can fully own, control, and manage their companies without the need for local partners or shareholders.

Key Ownership Benefits 

• 100% foreign ownership permitted 
• No requirement for local shareholders 
• Directors can be non-Finnish and non-resident 
• Businesses can be managed fully remotely 

Governance rules are simple, transparent, and designed to encourage international participation. 

Practical Example 

Many startups in Helsinki, Espoo, and Tampere are fully foreign-owned and operated remotely, especially in SaaS, gaming, and IT services. 

Reason 3 – Transparent and Stable Tax System 

Finland’s tax system is predictable, transparent, and competitive within the EU. Clear tax rules and efficient digital reporting systems provide certainty for foreign entrepreneurs planning long-term business operations.

Corporate Tax Overview (2026) 

• Corporate Income Tax (CIT): 20% 
• Digital and straightforward tax filing via Vero 
• Transparent accounting and reporting standards 

VAT and Compliance 

• VAT registration is straightforward 
• Online VAT filing and payments 
• Efficient interaction with tax authorities 

Double Taxation Treaties 

Finland has 70+ double taxation treaties, ensuring

• No double taxation on the same income 
• Clear tax residency rules 
• Fair treatment for foreign investors 

OAEC Support 

OAEC ensures foreign entrepreneurs remain fully compliant with Finnish tax and accounting regulations after incorporation. OAEC assists with

• Tax registration 
• VAT setup 
• Accounting and ongoing compliance 

This end-to-end support allows business owners to focus on growth while OAEC efficiently manages regulatory obligations. 

Reason 4 – Access to the EU Market and Banking Network 

By registering a company in Finland, foreign entrepreneurs gain immediate access to the EU’s single market. This enables seamless cross-border trade, simplified VAT processes, and stronger credibility with European clients and partners.

EU Market Access 

• Free movement of goods and services 
• Cross-border trading across 27 EU countries 
• Simplified EU VAT procedures 

Banking Advantages 

Finland has a strong and secure banking system, offering

• Business bank accounts for verified companies 
• Digital onboarding options (especially for EU/EEA founders) 
• FinTech and payment service integration 

OAEC Banking Support 

OAEC works with European financial institutions to help foreign clients

• Prepare compliance documentation 
• Navigate onboarding requirements 
• Secure suitable banking or payment solutions 

Reason 5 – Government Support and Innovation-Friendly Policies 

Finland is globally recognised for its support of innovation, startups, and foreign investment. Strong public funding, pro-business policies, and dedicated innovation agencies make it easier for foreign entrepreneurs to launch and scale businesses in 2026.

Key Support Bodies 

• Business Finland – Grants, loans, and R&D funding 
• ELY Centres – Regional development and business support 

Available Incentives 

• R&D grants and tax relief
• Innovation funding for tech and clean energy 
• Support for international scaling 

Startup Permit for Non-EU Entrepreneurs 

Finland offers a Startup Permit, allowing eligible founders to

• Register a company 
• Obtain residency options 
• Build and scale innovative businesses 

OAEC assists with startup permits, business visas, and related documentation. 

Additional Advantages for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Beyond the five main reasons, Finland offers several additional benefits

• Transparent legal framework 
• Low corruption and a high-trust economy 
• Efficient online systems for payroll and bookkeeping 
• Thriving coworking spaces and incubators 
• Integration with Nordic digital governance systems 
• Strategic gateway to Scandinavia and the wider EU 

Why Foreigners Choose Finland for Company Registration (2026)? 

Step-by-Step – How to Register a Company in Finland with OAEC 

1. Choose your business structure (Oy, Branch, or Subsidiary) 
2. OAEC prepares and submits digital incorporation documents 
3. Obtain Business ID, VAT registration, and bank account support 
4. Register with Vero for tax and employer obligations 
5. Receive post-formation services: 

• Accounting 
• Payroll 
• Compliance 
• Registered office solutions 

How OAEC Simplifies Finnish Company Formation? 

OAEC provides end-to-end support for foreign entrepreneurs, including

• Company incorporation 
• Remote digital registration 
• VAT and tax setup 
• Accounting and payroll 
• Banking and office address solutions 
• Ongoing compliance and expansion planning 

OAEC also supports multi-jurisdictional expansion, helping businesses scale beyond Finland into other EU markets. 

Conclusion 

Finland’s digital infrastructure, transparent regulations, stable tax system, and innovation-driven economy make it one of the easiest and most reliable countries for foreigners to start a business in 2026. With no ownership restrictions, fast registration, EU market access, and strong government support, it is clear why so many entrepreneurs choose to register a company in Finland. With OAEC’s expert guidance, foreign founders can confidently set up and operate their Finnish business remotely, compliantly, and efficiently, positioning themselves for long-term growth in Europe. 

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