Commission proposes 'EU Inc.', an optional EU-wide company form incorporable online in 48 hours
On 18 March 2026 the European Commission proposed a regulation creating 'EU Inc.', an optional harmonised company form under the '28th regime'. Founders could incorporate within 48 hours for no more than €100 with no minimum capital, through a single EU interface built on the business registers interconnection system. The proposal also covers digital meetings and share transfers, and fast-track solvent liquidation.
The European Commission adopted a proposal for a regulation establishing the 'EU Inc.' legal form (COM(2026) 321, procedure 2026/0074(COD)) on 18 March 2026, the centrepiece of its '28th regime' for innovative companies.
What is proposed
- An optional harmonised company form available in every member state's legal order, governed by common EU rules. Founders choose it instead of a national form.
- Fast, cheap incorporation: within 48 hours, for at most €100, with no minimum share capital, through a new single EU interface based on the Business Registers Interconnection System (BRIS).
- Digital by default: online shareholder and board meetings, and digital share transfers without intermediaries.
- Exit: a fast-track liquidation for solvent companies, and 'once-only' data submission during liquidation.
- National employment and social law continues to apply as for any other company.
Status
The proposal is in the ordinary legislative procedure. The Commission asked Parliament and Council to agree it by the end of 2026. Legislation of this kind normally takes 12 to 18 months.
Who is affected
Founders and groups planning new EU companies, especially start-ups operating across borders, and the company secretaries who would administer EU Inc. entities alongside national ones.