What are the requirements for a business name?

The name of the business must include the letters ‘BV’ to indicate its legal form. The name does not have to be in the Dutch language, but it must be written in Roman letters.

It is recommended to conduct a trade name search before the final registration of the new BV. Because of intellectual property regulations, an earlier registration of the same or a similar trade name could result in having to change the name of the newly established company. This, of course, would not be a good start.

Your business name must not be confusing or misleading, so you cannot choose a name that is already being used or that is similar to it. Your business name may also not be in conflict with any existing business names. It basically means that you have to choose a name that is unique in the sector and region in which you operate. The business name needs to be registered with the Chamber of Commerce when incorporating the business.

Your business name is protected from the date that you start operating your business. However, only the business name is protected, not the trademark! If you want to protect your business name as a trademark you will have to register the trademark.

Related Questions