How to Choose a Company Name in Belgium?

Why Is Choosing the Right Name So Important?

Your company name is much more than a simple administrative formality. It is your commercial identity, your first point of contact with customers, and a central element of your branding strategy. In Belgium, the choice of name is governed by the Code of Companies and Associations (CCA) and must comply with several specific rules.

A poor choice can lead to legal conflicts, registration refusals, or intellectual property problems. Take the time to think carefully before making your decision.

Legal Rules in Belgium

Statutory Name

Since the CCA came into force in 2019, every company must have a unique name included in its articles of association. This name cannot be identical to that of an existing company. Article 2:3 of the CCA specifies that the name must be followed by the legal form in full or abbreviated (SRL, SA, SC, etc.).

Restrictions to Observe

• The name must not be misleading regarding the purpose or activity of the company
• It must not contain protected terms such as "bank", "insurance" or "notary" without authorisation
• It must not infringe upon public order or morality
• Names containing "royal" or "federal" require special authorisation

Checking Name Availability

Search at the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE)

The first step is to verify that your desired name is not already in use. You can carry out this search for free on the CBE (Crossroads Bank for Enterprises) website using the Public Search tool. Also check close spelling variations.

Trademark Search

Also consult the database of the EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office) and the BOIP (Benelux Office for Intellectual Property) to ensure no registered trademark matches your name.

Domain Name

Also consider checking the availability of the domain name (.be, .com, .eu) corresponding to your company name. An available domain name facilitates your online presence.

Protecting Your Company Name

Trademark Registration

Registration at the CBE only provides limited protection. For enhanced protection, register your name as a trademark with the BOIP (Benelux protection) or the EUIPO (European protection). The cost of a Benelux filing starts at approximately EUR 244 for one class.

Trade Name

The trade name (the name under which you conduct business) benefits from protection through use, without registration formality, but this protection is geographically limited to the area where you are known.

Practical Tips

• Simplicity: choose a name that is easy to pronounce and remember in all three national languages
• Originality: a distinctive name is easier to protect legally
• Longevity: avoid names too closely tied to a trend or specific location
• Multilingual check: ensure the name has no negative connotation in Dutch, French, or German

Conclusion

Need help choosing and protecting your company name? LegalBelgique supports you through every step of creating your company, including availability checks and intellectual property advice. Contact us today!