The European Union is on the brink of its most significant business reform in decades. EU Inc, officially known as the '28th regime,' is a new pan-European legal entity framework that will allow entrepreneurs to register a single company that operates seamlessly across all 27 EU member states.
Announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2026, EU Inc addresses one of Europe's most persistent challenges: the fragmentation of its business environment across 27 different national legal systems.
Why the 28th Regime?
The name '28th regime' comes from the concept of creating a virtual 28th jurisdiction — one unified set of rules that exists alongside the 27 national legal systems. Unlike previous attempts at harmonization, EU Inc doesn't replace national company structures. Instead, it offers a new, parallel option specifically designed for businesses that want to operate across borders from day one.
Key Features of EU Inc
The framework is built around several core principles that make it revolutionary for European business:
Digital-first registration: The entire incorporation process is online, accessible from anywhere in the world. No physical presence, no notary appointments, no paper forms.
Minimal capital requirements: With a minimum share capital of just €1, EU Inc removes one of the biggest barriers to starting a business in Europe. Compare this to the €25,000 required for a German GmbH or €37,000 for a French SA.
English as standard: All documentation and registration is conducted in English at the EU level, eliminating language barriers that have historically complicated cross-border operations.
Unified governance: One set of corporate governance rules applies across all member states, removing the need to navigate 27 different legal frameworks.
The Supporting Framework
EU Inc doesn't exist in isolation. It's part of a broader ecosystem of tools designed to make pan-European business operations seamless:
EU-REGISTRY: A central EU-level company registry where all EU Inc entities are registered and maintained, providing transparency and trust across borders.
EU-DASHBOARD: A standardized entity management system where founders and investors can manage their company's legal status simply and transparently.
EU-FAST: Harmonized investment documentation that standardizes the fundraising process across Europe, making it as straightforward as raising capital in the United States.
EU-ESOP: An EU-wide stock options framework that enables companies to offer employee equity across borders without unexpected taxation events when talent moves between member states.
Timeline and What Comes Next
The legislative proposal is expected from the European Commission in Q1 2026, followed by negotiations between the European Parliament and the Council of 27 member states throughout 2026. First registrations are anticipated in Q1 2027.
How Europe Inc Can Help
At Europe Inc, we're preparing to be among the first service providers to help companies incorporate under the new EU Inc framework. From choosing the right entity structure to registration, compliance, and ongoing management across all 27 member states, we'll handle the complexity so you can focus on building your business.
Join our waitlist to get priority access when EU Inc registration opens.
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