Starting a company in Spain is an attractive option for foreign investors, but the process requires following certain steps and legal requirements. Understanding the prerequisites, necessary materials, and conditions is key to successfully registering a company.
Prerequisites
One of the most basic requirements is obtaining a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE). This is essential for conducting any legal transaction in Spain, including starting a company, buying property, or paying taxes.
Required Materials and Conditions
- Obtaining the NIE Number: First, you need to apply for an NIE number at the Spanish National Police.
- Business Name Registration: Pre-register your company name at the Central Commercial Registry in Spain to ensure its uniqueness.
- Opening a Company Bank Account: Depending on the type of company, you may need to open an account in a Spanish bank and deposit the necessary initial capital.
- Drafting the Company Statutes: Draft and sign the company statutes, which are the legal documents describing the rules of operation for the company.
- Registration at a Notary: Complete the formal registration of your company at a notary with all the necessary documents and proofs.
Registration Process
- Prepare and submit necessary documents, including the NIE number, proof of business name, company statutes, etc.
- Pay the related registration fees, which may include notary fees, registration fees, and tax registration fees.
- Register the company with the tax office and obtain a tax identification number (CIF).
Costs and Timing
The total cost of starting a company can vary based on the type of company, required services, and professional consulting fees, among other factors. Potential costs might include:
- NIE application fee: around €100.
- Business name registration fee: approximately €30.
- Notary fees: between €600 to €800.
- Initial capital amount: depending on the company type, the minimum initial capital can start from €3,000 (for a limited liability company).
The entire process, from submitting the NIE application to full company registration, typically takes from a few weeks to several months, depending on the processing speed of each step and whether all documents are complete and correct.
Starting a company is a complex but feasible process, and proper planning and understanding of the required legal requirements can help ensure a smooth completion.