Despite its limited natural resources, Liechtenstein is one of the few countries in the world with more registered companies than citizens – the principality is known as a tax oasis.

Relatively low business taxes have induced many holding (or so-called letter box) companies, to establish nominal offices in Liechtenstein. These companies do not perform real activities in the country of origin, sometimes they are established directly by the main holder of activity in the host country.

When planning a business meeting in Liechtenstein, avoid scheduling during typical vacation months (July and August) or during national holidays (particularly over Easter or in the week after Christmas).

Another unique feature of business etiquette in Liechtenstein is that most meetings are conducted over lunch.

If you are invited to a private dinner meeting at a business colleague's home, be sure to bring a small gift to the host. Chocolates, flowers or non-German liquors are all appropriate gifts for dinner business meetings in Liechtenstein.

Values that in Liechtenstein German speakers hold in high esteem include:

• Equality,
• Formality,
• Individuality,
• Precision,
• Respect for authority,
• Structure and order.

The Prince Johan Adan Andreas of Lichtenstein dynasty purchased the minuscule lordship of Schellenberg in 1699 and the county of Vaduz in 1712. He owned large estates also in Austria, Bohemia and Moravia, but none of these estates was controlled by the emperor living there. Vaduz soon adopted the family name, which belonged to the emperors there.

Monday - Friday: 7.30am – 6.30pm.

Saturday: 8.00am – 11.00am.

Legally permitted opening hours:

Monday - Friday: 9.00am – 9.00pm.

Saturday: 10.00am – 4.00pm.