
Is buying a ready made company in Hungary a time-saving option?
One of the main reasons why entrepreneurs consider buying a ready made company in Hungary is the assumption that it speeds up the process. However, in reality, this is not necessarily the case. Here’s why:
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The company formation in Hungary is 1-3 days, which is the same timeframe required to transfer ownership and directorship of a ready made company. The legal changes must be submitted to the Hungarian registry court, meaning there is no time advantage.
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The Hungarian VAT number and EU VAT number are issued immediately on the same day when a new company is incorporated. This means that, even in this aspect, a ready made company does not provide any time-saving benefits.
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The bank account of a ready made company is immediately suspended by the bank when the director is changed. The new director must visit the bank in person to sign the new contract, further delaying operations.
The cost of buying a ready made company in Hungary
The cost of ready made company in Hungary includes several financial obligations:
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The mandatory share capital of 3,000,000 HUF (around 7,500 EUR) must be transferred immediately when purchasing a ready made company. In contrast, when forming a new company, the share capital can be paid later after registration.
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Additional costs include legal fees, administrative fees, and the potential need for tax and financial advisory services.
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Hidden liabilities: For five years, the new director and shareholder are responsible for decisions made by the previous owners. This poses a significant risk, as any undisclosed financial or legal obligations could become the responsibility of the new owners.
Risks associated with a ready made company in Hungary
When you buy a ready made company in Hungary, you need to evaluate the potential risks:
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Unknown past activities: Even if the company is marketed as “clean,” there is always a risk of hidden liabilities, unpaid taxes, or contractual obligations.
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Reputational risk: If the company had any prior issues, these could affect business relationships and credibility.
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Banking issues: The immediate suspension of the bank account means that business operations cannot start until the new director personally completes the required paperwork.
Considering the above points, forming a new company in Hungary is often a more transparent and flexible option. While a ready made company may seem like a shortcut, it does not provide significant advantages in terms of time or cost savings. Instead, opting for company incorporation in Hungary ensures a fresh start with no hidden risks or past liabilities.
For those interested in starting a business in Hungary, it is advisable to consult with professionals to ensure compliance with local regulations. Whether you want to open a company in Hungary, open a business in Hungary, or open a bank account in Hungary, taking the right steps from the beginning will help you avoid unnecessary complications.
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