An optimal solution for asset protection and long-term succession planning.
The Liechtenstein Family Foundation (Liechtensteinische Familienstiftung) is a unique legal instrument for efficient wealth structuring, asset protection from third-party claims, and customised intergenerational succession — all in line with your personal intentions and legal certainty.
Key Advantages of a Liechtenstein Family Foundation
- Asset protection – The foundation has no legal owner; the founder transfers assets irrevocably into the foundation. This structure shields assets from creditors, marital disputes, and legal claims.
- Flexible governance – Distribution terms can be tailored to include age, education, life events, or any other conditions — options typically unavailable under conventional inheritance laws.
- Amendability – The founder can amend the foundation charter and distribution mechanisms at any time during their lifetime.
- Confidentiality – Liechtenstein foundations are not subject to public disclosure. There is no publicly accessible register of beneficiaries, and neither the founder nor the beneficiaries are subject to automatic exchange of tax information (AEOI).
- Tax efficiency – Fixed annual foundation tax of CHF 1,800, regardless of the asset base or returns.
- Freedom from forced heirship – Liechtenstein law permits deviation from forced heirship rules imposed in many other jurisdictions.
How the Foundation Works
- The founder (and optionally third parties) transfers assets into the legal ownership of the foundation.
- The foundation is governed by a board of directors (Stiftungsrat) in accordance with the foundation charter.
- Distributions to beneficiaries are made based on pre-defined criteria and conditions.
- The foundation can hold real estate, equity interests, financial investments, cryptocurrencies, and other assets — but does not engage in commercial operations. It serves as a passive holding vehicle.
Common Use Cases
- Preserving family wealth – Safeguarding assets from division in the event of divorce, litigation, or insolvency
- Structured succession – Ensuring wealth is transferred across generations under clear and enforceable conditions
- International asset protection – Holding global assets within a politically stable and tax-efficient jurisdiction
Why Choose Jost & Partners Swiss Law Firm?
✔ Proven legal expertise – Extensive knowledge of Liechtenstein foundation law and hands-on experience in establishing and managing private foundations
✔ Tailored solutions – We design foundation structures around your family’s specific objectives and cross-border needs
✔ Direct access to authorities – We work directly with Liechtenstein’s regulators and government bodies, avoiding unnecessary intermediaries
✔ End-to-end legal support – We guide you through every phase of the foundation’s lifecycle, from formation to ongoing administration
✔ Strict confidentiality and data protection – In full compliance with international standards and local fiduciary duties
✔ Global focus – Robust structuring for high-net-worth families and business owners worldwide
Ready to secure your family’s legacy through a Liechtenstein foundation?
Contact us for a private, no-obligation consultation.