How to Open a Company in Spain

Spain is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for entrepreneurs and business owners. With its robust economy, strategic location, and thriving business environment, establishing a company in Spain can be a rewarding opportunity. However, navigating the legal and bureaucratic processes can be complex. At NOMAD SPAIN, we offer expert assistance to make the process smooth and hassle-free, handling all the paperwork and legal requirements on your behalf.

Why Start a Business in Spain?

Spain offers numerous benefits for entrepreneurs:

  • A stable economy and access to the European market.
  • Favorable business environment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
  • Competitive labor costs compared to other Western European countries.
  • Support for innovation and startups in technology, tourism, and other sectors.
  • A high quality of life, making it an attractive location for business owners.

Types of Business Structures in Spain

When opening a company in Spain, you can choose from several business structures, depending on your needs:

  1. Sole Proprietorship (Autónomo)
    Ideal for freelancers or small businesses. Requires simple registration but holds the owner personally liable for debts.
  2. Private Limited Company (Sociedad Limitada – SL)
    The most common structure for SMEs. It requires a minimum share capital of €3,000, and the owner’s liability is limited to the capital invested.
  3. Public Limited Company (Sociedad Anónima – SA)
    Suitable for large companies or businesses planning to list on the stock exchange. It requires a minimum share capital of €60,000.
  4. Branch Office
    A subsidiary of a foreign company operating in Spain.
  5. Partnerships (Sociedades Colectivas or Comanditarias)
    Business owned by two or more individuals. Liability depends on the partnership agreement.

Steps to Open a Company in Spain

  1. Choose Your Business Structure
    Decide which business structure fits your needs based on your goals, liability preferences, and capital availability.
  2. Obtain a NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Number)
    All non-Spanish nationals must have a NIE to conduct business in Spain. This is required for both company registration and opening a business bank account.
  3. Register the Company Name
    Submit your desired company name to the Central Commercial Registry (Registro Mercantil Central) to ensure it’s unique and available.
  4. Open a Business Bank Account
    Deposit the required share capital into a Spanish business bank account and obtain a certificate confirming the deposit.
  5. Draft Company Bylaws (Escritura Pública)
    A notary must formalize your company’s bylaws, outlining the company structure, roles, and operational guidelines.
  6. Register with the Tax Authorities
    Obtain a tax identification number (CIF) and register your company with the Agencia Tributaria (Spanish Tax Agency).
  7. Register with the Commercial Registry
    Submit all documents, including bylaws and tax registration, to the Registro Mercantil for final registration.
  8. Obtain Licenses and Permits
    Depending on your business type, you may need specific licenses or permits from local or regional authorities.
  9. Register for Social Security
    If you plan to hire employees, you must register with the Spanish Social Security system and provide proof of employee contracts.

How NOMAD SPAIN Can Help

Setting up a business in Spain involves navigating a series of bureaucratic steps, each requiring specific documentation and compliance with Spanish laws. At NOMAD SPAIN, we provide end-to-end support to make the process efficient and stress-free.

Our Services Include:

  • NIE Application Assistance: Help you obtain your Foreigner’s Identification Number.
  • Company Name Registration: Submit your preferred company name and ensure approval.
  • Document Preparation: Assist in drafting bylaws, completing tax forms, and obtaining certifications.
  • Legal Translation Services: Provide certified translations for non-Spanish documents.
  • Registration with Authorities: Handle the submission process for tax and commercial registry.
  • Licenses and Permits: Guide you in securing the required permissions for your business type.
  • Post-Registration Support: Assist with social security registration, employee contracts, and operational setup.

Benefits of Working with NOMAD SPAIN

  • Expert Guidance: Our team has extensive experience in Spanish business laws and procedures.
  • Personalized Service: We tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of your business.
  • Time Efficiency: Save time and avoid delays with our streamlined processes.
  • Comprehensive Support: From NIE application to operational setup, we cover every detail.

Common Challenges When Starting a Business in Spain

  • Language barriers when dealing with Spanish authorities.
  • Delays in processing paperwork and registrations.
  • Understanding and complying with Spanish tax and labor laws.
  • Securing the correct permits and licenses for specific industries.

At NOMAD SPAIN, we address these challenges for you, ensuring your business launch is seamless and successful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Business in Spain

Do I need to live in Spain to start a business?

No, but you must have a NIE and an authorized representative in Spain to complete the registration process if you are not a resident.

How long does it take to open a company in Spain?

The process typically takes 1-2 months, depending on the business type and the completeness of your documentation.

What is the minimum investment required?

The minimum share capital varies by business structure: €3,000 for a private limited company (SL) and €60,000 for a public limited company (SA).

Do I need a lawyer to start a business in Spain?

While not mandatory, professional assistance ensures compliance with legal requirements and avoids costly mistakes.

Can I hire employees as a foreign business owner?

Yes, but you must register with the Social Security system and comply with Spanish labor laws.

Contact Us for Business Setup Assistance

Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey in Spain? Let NOMAD SPAIN take care of the paperwork while you focus on building your dream business.

Get in touch with us today:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: +34 603 824 757
  • Office: C. de Serrano Anguita, 13, Centro, 28004 Madrid

“Your success in Spain begins with the right foundation—let us help you build it!”