How to Open a Company in Spain as a Foreigner or Non-Resident
Spain is one of the most attractive economies in Europe for entrepreneurship. Access to the European market, top-level infrastructures, and a competitive tax system make the country an excellent base for international businesses. And any foreigner can establish a company in Spain, regardless of their country of origin or whether they reside here.What type of company can a foreigner establish?
The most common legal form for foreign entrepreneurs in Spain is the Limited Liability Company (LLC). Its advantages are:- Minimum capital of 1 euro (as per Law 18/2022 on "startups").
- Limited liability to the contributed capital.
- Fast incorporation process through the CIRCE system (PAE Point).
- No residence in Spain is required for shareholders or the administrator.
Prior requirements for a foreigner
1. NIE for all shareholders and administrators
Each person who will be a shareholder or administrator of the LLC needs a NIE (Foreign Identification Number). It is the tax identifier that the Spanish Tax Agency will use for all company operations. It can be processed at the Spanish consulate in your country or through a representative in Spain.2. Registered office in Spain
The LLC must have a physical address in Spain as its registered office. If you do not have an office, you can hire a domiciliation service that provides a legal address for a monthly fee.3. Bank account in Spain (for the CIRCE system)
For express incorporation through the CIRCE system, it is necessary to open an account in a Spanish bank and deposit the share capital. Several Spanish banks offer account opening for non-residents remotely.Step-by-step incorporation process
- Name reservation: request the negative certification of the company name from the Central Commercial Register.
- Obtaining the provisional Tax Identification Number: the company has a provisional tax number before the deed.
- Notarial deed of incorporation: signed before a notary (or electronically with an electronic signature).
- Registration in the Commercial Register: grants full legal personality to the company.
- Registration with the Tax Agency (form 036): obtaining the definitive Tax Identification Number and registration for economic activities.