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Setting up a Trust fund in Belgium

Question

I have some property in Belgium and am looking at the option of setting up a trust to manage it over the long-term. Has anyone any experience to share on doing this in Belgium? Costs, tax implication, DIY or using a lawyer? I am non resident and the property is in Belgium. Thanks.

anon

I'd have to ask why on earth you'd want to do this, but in any case, the legal concept of a "trust" isn't really recognized in Belgian law.

I suspect that setting up a company that owns the property is probably a better option.

However, without knowing why you'd want to do this, it's not really possible to give advice.

I would speak to your notaire.

Dec 22, 2016 13:14
becasse

You need to speak to a notaire (for the legal implications of any solution) and an accountant (for the financial implications), it is best if you choose ones who are used to working together.

Setting up a company to own the property, either here in Belgium or in the country where you are based now, would seem to be a possibility but one which will have its own cost implications.

Selling the property is going to be the simplest solution if you don't wish to continue owning the property personally, but, if you wish to move the proceeds, be careful to set up a proper audit trail, you don't want them being confiscated under the money laundering regulations.

The DIY route is impossible here.

Dec 22, 2016 15:05