In Sweden and Netherlands it is quite easy and straightforward to register a business, speaking from personal experience. Tax filing is quite straightforward as well, especially for personal income tax.
Starting a company in Sweden requires (uploaded PDF from Bolagsverket to ChatGPT who summarized):
1. Prepare the foundation deed and the articles of association.
2. Identify the beneficial owner(s).
3. Pay the share capital and obtain the bank certificate or auditor’s statement.
4. Submit the registration application for the limited company to the Swedish Companies Registration Office (Bolagsverket) and wait for approval.
5. If applicable: submit a certified copy of your passport (non-Swedish citizens).
6. Apply for F-tax approval and VAT registration and wait for the decision.
7. Register as an employer if you will pay salaries.
8. Keep continuous bookkeeping and prepare the annual accounts each financial year.
9. Submit the annual report to Bolagsverket every year.
Optional:
1. Obtain business and personal insurance.
2. Register trademarks or protect other intellectual property.
3. Choose an auditor if you want one or when the company later reaches the required thresholds.
4. Register a cash register if you accept cash or card payments.
5. Meet requirements for import/export and obtain an EORI number.
6. Follow rules for buying/selling goods or services within or outside the EU.
7. Keep a staff ledger if required for your industry.
8. Follow reverse-charge VAT rules if you operate in construction.
9. Apply for permits if your specific business activity requires them.
This is not what I'd call a straightforward process, personally. Also speaking from personal experience. Sorry for the formatting.
I guess it depends what we mean with straightforward. If we mean something along the lines of "no ambiguity" then yes. If we mean something along the lines of "simple, easy to do" then no. Almost anything can be accomplished with a sufficiently long checklist. I just feel like the entire process could be streamlined and simplified.
