At Lawhill, we make it easy to incorporate or purchase a ready-made company in Spain, whether you’re in the country or abroad. Our services include full remote company formation or purchase, assistance with opening bank accounts, and comprehensive legal support to ensure a seamless process.
Step-by-Step Process
Here’s how we do it:
- Consultation: We start by understanding your business goals and advising you on the most suitable structure for your needs.
- Name reservation: We assist in selecting and reserving a unique name for your company, ensuring compliance with Spanish naming regulations.
- Preparation of documents: Our legal experts prepare all the necessary documents, including the Articles of Association, shareholder agreements, and registration forms.
- Opening a bank account: We assist in facilitating the opening of a bank account, ensuring the process is seamless and can be completed remotely.
- Remote services: With Lawhill, you don’t need to be physically present in Spain. We offer fully remote services, including document submission, local representation, and communication with authorities.
- Registration with the registry: We handle the submission of all required documents to the Spanish Authorities to finalize your company registration or purchase.
- Obtaining VAT registration (if needed): For companies engaged in VAT-applicable activities, we guide you through the VAT registration process to ensure compliance.
- Business Launch: Once the company is officially registered, we provide continuous support to help your business thrive in Spain.
Key Requirements
In Spain, an SL must appoint at least one director to manage the company’s operations. The director can be either a resident or non-resident of Spain and may act individually or as part of a board of directors, depending on the chosen management structure.
Every company must have a registered office in Spain. We can provide a registered address to meet this obligation.
Types of Companies We Form in Spain
At Lawhill, we help international clients choose and register the legal structure that best fits their business goals in Spain. Here’s a quick overview of the main company types we work with:
- Sociedad Limitada (SL) – Limited Liability Company
The most popular choice for small and medium businesses. Requires only €3,000 share capital. Shareholders are not personally liable for company debts. - Sociedad Anónima (SA) – Public Limited Company
Suitable for large businesses or those planning to raise capital. Requires at least €60,000 share capital. Shares can be publicly traded. - Autónomo – Sole Proprietor
The simplest form for individual entrepreneurs. Easy setup, but the owner is personally liable for business debts. - Branch of a Foreign Company
For foreign businesses expanding into Spain without forming a separate legal entity. The parent company remains fully liable. - Representative Office
A non-trading presence in Spain for market research, networking, or coordination. Cannot engage in commercial activities.
Additional Services
At Lawhill, we provide comprehensive accounting and payroll services tailored to meet the needs of your business. From bookkeeping to tax filings, we ensure your financial records are compliant with Spanish regulations. Our team handles payroll management, ensuring timely and accurate payment for your employees.
Navigating the banking system in a foreign country can be challenging. We assist you in opening local and international bank accounts, guiding you through compliance requirements and documentation. Whether for operational needs or capital deposits, we streamline the process to secure your accounts efficiently.
Establish a professional presence in Spain with our virtual office services. We provide a legal address required for company registration and offer correspondence management to ensure you never miss important communication. This service is ideal for businesses operating remotely or without a physical office in Spain.
Certain industries in Spain require specific licenses to operate legally. At Lawhill, we help you obtain necessary licenses such as transport, pharmaceutical and temporary employment licenses. Our experts ensure the application process is smooth, saving you time and effort while adhering to all legal requirements.
We offer a full range of legal services tailored to businesses, including contract drafting, regulatory compliance, dispute resolution, mergers, and acquisitions. Our experienced legal team ensures that your business is fully protected and operates within the framework of Spanish and EU laws.
F.A.Q
The formation process typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on documentation and availability of notary appointments.
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Standard corporate tax rate: 25%
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Reduced rate for new companies: 15% for the first two years of taxable profit
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Tax year: Usually matches the calendar year (January 1 – December 31)
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Corporate tax return deadline: Within 6 months and 25 days after the end of the tax year
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Capital gains: Taxed as part of corporate income
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Dividends received: May benefit from exemptions if conditions are met
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Losses: Can be carried forward for up to 15 years
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Double tax treaties: Spain has agreements with over 90 countries
- Gateway to the EU and Global Markets: As a core member of the European Union and the Eurozone, Spain offers seamless access to over 450 million consumers and serves as a strategic bridge between Europe, Latin America, and North Africa.
- Supportive Environment for Foreign Investors: Spain actively encourages international entrepreneurship with investment-friendly policies, streamlined company formation processes, and no restrictions on foreign ownership.
- Attractive Business Sectors and Incentives: Key industries such as tourism, renewable energy, technology, real estate, and agri-food are supported by regional and national incentives, tax credits, and EU-funded programs.
- Modern Infrastructure and Connectivity: Spain boasts world-class transportation networks, advanced digital infrastructure, and globally ranked cities like Madrid and Barcelona, which are ideal for launching and scaling international businesses.
- Skilled, Multilingual Talent Pool: With a diverse and highly educated workforce, many professionals in Spain speak English and other major languages, making it easier for foreign entrepreneurs to operate and expand.
- High Quality of Life: Spain combines a vibrant culture, excellent healthcare, safety, and a favorable climate—making it one of the most attractive countries in Europe for business relocation and long-term living.
