Liechtenstein

The Principality of Liechtenstein - located between Switzerland and Austria - is a prospering small state in the heart of Europe. Eleven communities make up the country's area of 160 square kilometres. Vaduz is the capital of Liechtenstein.

The principality is a constitutional hereditary monarchy on a democratic and parliamentary basis. Prince Hans Adam II. and the people - represented by the 25-seat parliament - are the country's two sovereigns. Political stability, liberal tax legislation, participation in the economic areas of Switzerland and the EEA are optimal framework conditions for this small country. Liechtenstein is a member of the UNO, of the Council of Europe, and the World Trade Organisation WTO.

Liechtenstein convinces by its economic strength, in particular in the fields of financial services (55 percent of all employees) and trade and industry, which holds 44 percent of all employees. Today, as little as 1 percent of employees work in the originally dominant sector of agriculture and forestry.

With a residential population of just above 35,000, Liechtenstein offers around 30,000 jobs. The country's export-oriented industry and the financial sector employ around 14,000 commuters from Switzerland and Austria.