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Where to start? -

When starting a business, whether at home or abroad, several factors need to be considered. You can’t simply register a company and start selling, as each country has its own rules and systems.

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Business-friendly spots -

Numerous reports assess countries that support entrepreneurs with various incentives, including the World Bank Group's 'Ease of Doing Business Report.'

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Methodology -

This report evaluates factors such as how long it takes to register a company, the number of permits required, and the level of bureaucracy in each country.

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Top tips -

Before diving into the top 20 locations listed in the report as offering the best conditions based on these categories, investment migration consultancy Global Citizen Solutions also highlights key aspects to consider when opening a business in a foreign market.

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Economic environment -

Opt for countries with stable economies and focus on growing industries, such as IT, which are driven by technological advancements essential for global trade. Also, consider local market demand for your business.

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Tax policies -

The best countries for business owners offer lower corporate tax rates to reduce operating expenses. Look for research and development tax credits or exemptions for specific industries, such as technology or green energy. Also, prioritize countries with straightforward tax systems, as simplicity and clarity help avoid high compliance costs.

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Ease of doing business -

Consider the ease of registering a business, whether it's a private or limited liability company. To streamline the setup, research the local administrative process and prioritize locations with minimal red tape.

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Labor market -

Countries with skilled labor forces across diverse industries should be at the top of an entrepreneur's list. It's also crucial to review a location's policies on minimum wage, worker safety, and benefits.

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Infrastructure and connectivity -

Choose locations with strong transport systems for efficient trade and shipping. Also, prioritize areas with high-speed internet and tech hubs, as they can enhance business efficiency and improve connections with global markets and customers.

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Residency and visa requirements -

Look for visa programs that benefit business owners, such as Entrepreneur Work Visas or Golden Visas, which offer long-term residency in exchange for investment.

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Top 20 -

Now you have these key tips, click through the next slides to discover the top 20 best countries to start a business, according to the World Bank Group's 'Ease of Doing Business Report.'

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20. Finland -

With a skilled workforce and top-notch infrastructure, Finland is an ideal hub for startups. The Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH) lets business owners register their companies online in just one to two days. Additionally, Finland’s business laws support entrepreneurship, including a limited liability company law that shields owners from personal risk.

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19. Latvia -

Latvia’s location in Northern Europe makes it an attractive hub for trade and tech services businesses. The country offers a 20% corporate tax rate and tax breaks for reinvested profits. It also has a Golden Visa program, allowing investors to gain residency by investing €50,000 (about US$53,000) or €250,000 (about $265,000) in real estate.

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18. Estonia -

Estonia’s thriving tech and startup ecosystem is fueled in part by its e-residency program, which allows digital entrepreneurs to manage their businesses remotely. The country's online business registration is reportedly completed in a mere 18 minutes.

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17. North Macedonia -

The country allows businesses to register online in one to two days, with a corporate tax rate of just 10%, one of the lowest in Europe. It also offers incentives for foreign investment, including tax breaks and grants for companies in key sectors like manufacturing and technology.

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16. United Arab Emirates (UAE) -

The UAE has long been a business-friendly hub, thanks to its "free zones" that offer tax exemptions and allow full foreign ownership, making it an attractive destination for international entrepreneurs. The corporate tax rate is just 9%, one of the lowest in the world.

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15. Taiwan -

Taiwan also streamlines the business registration process, which reportedly takes about three days. Its technology-driven economy makes it an attractive hub for electronics, semiconductors, and manufacturing businesses. With a competitive 20% corporate tax rate, it stands out among other Asian economies.

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14. Australia -

Although the country’s corporate tax rate is 30%, small businesses can benefit from tax incentives such as deductions for operational expenses. Entrepreneurs can also access government grants and support programs, particularly for startups and small businesses, with additional incentives like tax offsets and innovation subsidies.

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13. Mauritius -

Mauritius is not only a top holiday destination but also a strong business hub. With one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the region (15%) and additional exemptions for certain industries, it stands out as an attractive option. Its strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes it ideal for entrepreneurs targeting both African and Asian markets.

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12. Malaysia -

In Malaysia, the corporate tax rate is 24%, and business registration typically takes two days. As a member of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)—a trade agreement between 15 countries, including China, Japan, and Australia—Malaysia offers businesses reduced tariffs, easier trade, and support for regional economic growth.

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11. Lithuania -

With its position in the European Union, a corporate tax rate of 15%, and a fast business registration process, the country is an appealing choice for entrepreneurs looking to expand in the European market. Tech startups can benefit from government subsidies, along with incentives for innovation and research.

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10. Sweden -

Sweden ranks among the top 10 as one of the best countries to start a business, thanks to tax reliefs for companies focused on innovation and sustainability. With a corporate tax rate of 22%, the country provides a stable, progressive environment for international entrepreneurs.

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9. Norway -

Another Nordic nation in the top 10, Norway also has a corporate tax rate of 22%, offering additional breaks for companies focused on green energy and sustainability. The country is especially notable for its clear regulatory framework and low corruption rates, making it a reliable choice for business owners.

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8. United Kingdom -

With one of the fastest-growing financial sectors, the country boasts a corporate tax rate of just 19%, along with various tax reliefs and incentives for startups, particularly in tech, creative industries, and research and development. It also offers programs like the Innovation Grant and tax credits for small and medium-sized businesses.

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7. Georgia -

With one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe and additional tax incentives for foreign investors, Georgia ranks in the top 10. A key attraction is the country’s Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) with the European Union, which reduces trade costs by eliminating most customs duties and provides businesses with easier access to the EU market.

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6. United States of America -

Despite economic fluctuations and political uncertainty surrounding tariffs, the US remains one of the largest business markets. The 21% corporate tax rate, along with numerous tax incentives for startups, small businesses, and tech firms, continues to attract entrepreneurs. Programs like the Small Business Administration (SBA) offer loans, grants, and tax credits to support growth.

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5. South Korea -

Ranking in the top five, the country offers a business-friendly environment with a fast registration process of just two to three days. The corporate tax rate is 22%, but businesses in sectors like technology, electronics, and research and development (R&D) can access a range of tax incentives.

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4. Denmark -

With a corporate tax rate of 22%, the country is known for welcoming business owners, and offering a strong infrastructure and policies that support small and medium enterprises. One of its main attractions is its flexible labor market, which allows employers to hire and fire easily while providing solid social security benefits for employees. 

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3. Hong Kong -

The region is popular with business owners for its free trade system and straightforward tax structure, which includes no sales or capital gains tax. This makes it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs aiming to maximize profits and engage in international trade. The registration process typically takes one to two days, and the corporate tax rate is 16.5%, with offshore businesses exempt from this rate.

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2. Singapore -

Ranked second, the country is known for being one of the most productive in the world. It offers a corporate tax rate of 17%, with tax exemptions for companies in their first three years of operation. The country also provides several tax incentives for startups, especially in technology and financial services.

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1. New Zealand -

Claiming first place, New Zealand stands out for its political stability, innovative economy, and seamless access to global markets. It offers research and development grants to innovative businesses, making it especially attractive for companies in high-tech and science sectors seeking funding to develop new products and technologies.

Sources: (World Bank Group) (Global Citizen Solutions)

See also: The best countries for American expats in 2025

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