Register of Public Sector Partners: who it applies to

The Register of Public Sector Partners (Register partnerov verejného sektora) is a record that increases transparency in business dealings with the state. If your company plans to draw on public funds in any way, it is really important to know whether this obligation applies to you at all. In this article, we explain clearly what this register actually means, who it affects and what specific obligations it entails.

What the Register of Public Sector Partners is

It is a public list of entities that receive funds or assets from the state and the public sector above a certain threshold. The aim is to reveal clearly who really stands behind such companies and who actually profits from public money. The Register of Public Sector Partners thus helps to combat the opaque and concealed handling of public resources.

Who the registration applies to

The obligation to register applies to entities whose dealings with the state exceed the scope laid down by law – for example, those that receive payments from public funds or obtain subsidies or public contracts. Always check the specific thresholds, limits and exemptions in the current wording of the legislation.

• Companies bidding for public contracts above the set limit.
• Recipients of subsidies and state aid above the threshold.
• Entities acquiring assets from the state.
• Other entities defined by law.

The key role of the ultimate beneficial owner

The essence of the register is the identification of the ultimate beneficial owner – that is, the individual who actually controls the company or genuinely benefits from it, even if they are not formally listed as a managing director or shareholder. Establishing who this person is lies at the core of the whole process and must be properly and thoroughly verified, so that the true ownership structure is not concealed. This is the most sensitive part of the entire registration and requires particular attention.

How registration works

The company does not register itself; registration is carried out through a so-called authorised person, who is responsible for verifying the data.

1. The company approaches an authorised person.
2. The authorised person identifies the ultimate beneficial owner.
3. They prepare and file the application for entry in the register.
4. They ensure the data are updated and verified on an ongoing basis.

Obligations after registration

Registration is not a one-off matter. The data must be kept up to date and verified regularly. Failure to meet the obligations can lead to sanctions and to exclusion from doing business with the state. So always check the current deadlines and conditions.

Consequences of failing to meet the obligations

The register is not just a formality – its purpose is genuine scrutiny of who profits from public resources. If a company fails to meet its obligations or provides incorrect data, it may face sanctions and, above all, lose the possibility of doing business with the state. For entities that depend on public contracts, this can significantly disrupt their operations, so it pays to be thorough.

• Sanctions may be imposed for failing to meet the obligations.
• Risk of exclusion from doing business with the state.
• Incorrect data can have serious consequences.
• The data must be kept up to date and verified.

Why consult an expert

The subject of the Register of Public Sector Partners is fairly specific, and mistakes can be costly. Bilvao’s accountants and partners will help you assess whether this obligation applies to you at all and guide you in meeting the related obligations, so that you can do business with the state without unnecessary obstacles.

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Frequently asked questions

Does every company have to register in the Register of Public Sector Partners?

No, the obligation only applies to entities whose dealings with the state exceed the scope laid down by law – for example, those that receive public funds, subsidies or public contracts above a certain threshold. Check the specific thresholds and exemptions against the current legislation.

Who carries out the registration?

The company does not register itself; registration is carried out through a so-called authorised person, who identifies the ultimate beneficial owner, files the application for entry and ensures the data are verified and updated. The authorised person is typically a lawyer or another professional.