Business entities

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of business ownership, where an individual operates a business as a sole trader. The owner is fully responsible for the business's debts and obligations, and there is no legal distinction between the individual and the business.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses. It provides limited liability protection to its owners (known as participants) and allows for flexible management and ownership structures. The liability of participants is limited to their contributions to the company's authorized capital.

Joint Stock Company (JSC)

A JSC is a form of business ownership where the company's capital is divided into shares, and shareholders' liability is limited to the value of their shares. JSCs can be either public or private, and they are subject to specific regulations and reporting requirements.

Partnership

There are two main types of partnerships in Ukraine: general partnerships and limited partnerships. In a general partnership, partners share equal rights and responsibilities, including unlimited liability. In a limited partnership, there are general partners with unlimited liability and limited partners with liability limited to their contributions.

Representative Office

A representative office is a non-profit entity established by a foreign company to represent its interests in Ukraine. It is not a separate legal entity and cannot engage in profit-generating activities. Its purpose is typically limited to market research, promotion, and liaison activities.

Branch

A branch is a separate subdivision of a foreign or domestic company that conducts business activities in Ukraine. It has more operational autonomy than a representative office and can engage in commercial activities. However, it remains part of the parent company and does not have separate legal status.