Simplified Liquidation in Luxembourg: Fast-Track Company Closure

Learn how simplified liquidation works in Luxembourg. A faster, cost-efficient process for small companies with no employees or disputes.

Introduction to simplified liquidation Luxembourg 

Closing a company in Luxembourg can be a complex and lengthy process, but not all businesses require a full-scale liquidation. For small, solvent companies that meet certain criteria, Luxembourg law provides a simplified liquidation procedure (liquidation simplifiée).

This process is designed to reduce time, costs, and administrative burden, making it ideal for companies with straightforward structures, such as those without employees, pending lawsuits, or complex financial obligations.

If your company is eligible, simplified liquidation can be completed in a matter of months instead of years, allowing shareholders to quickly settle obligations and recover remaining assets.

What Is Simplified Liquidation in Luxembourg?

Simplified liquidation is a fast-track dissolution procedure available to small, solvent companies under Luxembourg law.

Key Features:

  • Faster timeline compared to standard voluntary liquidation.

  • Reduced involvement of courts and auditors.

  • Lower administrative and professional costs.

It is particularly suited for:

  • Dormant companies.

  • Holding companies with no active operations.

  • Small businesses with few creditors and no employees.

Conditions for simplified Liquidation

A company may qualify for simplified liquidation if:

  • It has no employees.
  • It has no pending litigation.
  • It has a limited number of creditors, all of whom can be repaid quickly.
  • It is solvent and able to settle all debts.
  • It does not hold complex assets (e.g., real estate portfolios, international subsidiaries).

Tip: If your company has cross-border operations or ongoing disputes, the simplified route will not be available.

The Simplified Liquidation Process

Step 1: Shareholder Resolution

  • Shareholders hold an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) before a notary.

  • They vote to dissolve the company and appoint a liquidator.

Step 2: Appointment of Liquidator

  • A liquidator (often an accountant or fiduciary) manages the closure.

  • Duties: settle debts, collect receivables, prepare liquidation accounts.

Step 3: Settlement of Debts

  • All creditors are paid in full.

  • If debts cannot be settled, the process converts into a judicial liquidation.

Step 4: Distribution of Assets

  • Once debts are cleared, assets are distributed among shareholders.

Step 5: Filing & Deregistration

  • Final accounts are approved by shareholders.

  • Company is struck off the Luxembourg Business Register (RCS).

Timeline of Simplified Liquidation

  • Typical duration: 3–6 months.

  • Compared to standard voluntary liquidation (12–18 months), this is significantly faster.

Advantages of Simplified Liquidation

  • Time savings: Closure completed within months.

  • Cost savings: Lower notary, audit, and professional fees.

  • Less bureaucracy: Reduced publications and filings.

  • Certainty: Clear process for solvent, simple structures.

Case Example: Small Holding Company

Scenario: A dormant Luxembourg holding company with no employees and €50,000 in assets.

  • Shareholders opted for simplified liquidation.

  • A liquidator was appointed to close accounts and repay minor supplier debts.

  • Process completed in 4 months.

  • Shareholders recovered remaining assets without excessive costs.

Lesson: For straightforward entities, simplified liquidation avoids unnecessary delays and expenses.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Not meeting eligibility criteria (hidden debts, disputes).

  • Failing to settle taxes or social contributions before applying.

  • Poor documentation of shareholder resolutions.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

While simplified liquidation is less complex than other forms, it still requires compliance with Luxembourg law. Errors can lead to delays or conversion into judicial liquidation.

At Financial Services Accountant Luxembourg, we:

  • Assess eligibility for simplified liquidation.

  • Act as liquidator or coordinate with trusted professionals.

  • Prepare and file liquidation accounts.

  • Handle all RCS filings and notarial procedures.

FAQs on Simplified Liquidation in Luxembourg

1. Who can use simplified liquidation?

Small, solvent companies with no employees, no disputes, and limited creditors.

2. How long does simplified liquidation take?

Typically 3–6 months, compared to 12–18 months for standard voluntary liquidation.

3. What happens if creditors are not paid?

If debts cannot be settled, the process becomes a judicial liquidation under court supervision.

4. Is simplified liquidation cheaper?

Yes. Lower professional and administrative costs make it significantly more affordable.

5. Can foreign-owned companies use simplified liquidation?

Yes, provided the company meets the eligibility criteria.

Get expert advice to fast company closure

Simplified liquidation in Luxembourg offers entrepreneurs and investors a fast, cost-effective way to close a company that is solvent and straightforward. By reducing procedures and expenses, it ensures a smooth exit for businesses that no longer need to operate.

At Financial Services Accountant Luxembourg, we provide full assistance for simplified liquidation, from eligibility checks to final deregistration.

Request a consultation today to see if your company qualifies for fast-track closure.

“Simplified liquidation in Luxembourg is about making closure smooth and stress-free. With the right guidance, the process becomes clear, quick, and efficient, allowing entrepreneurs to move forward with confidence and peace of mind.” Mickaël LOC Managing Director Financial Services Accountant Luxembourg

They talk about us on Le Figaro, read the full article Financial Services Luxembourg, expert en création d’entreprise et services comptables

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