Setting up a company in Spain as a foreign entrepreneur is not only possible—it’s increasingly common. Whether you’re from the UK, the Netherlands, the USA, or another country, Spain welcomes international investors through streamlined processes and the popular legal form of Sociedad Limitada (SL), the Spanish equivalent of a private limited company.
This complete and up-to-date guide walks you through the legal steps, documents, timelines, and tax implications. At LEXTAX, we support you every step of the way with multilingual legal and tax assistance.
Can a Foreigner Open a Company in Spain?
Yes. Both EU and non-EU nationals can register a company in Spain. The only mandatory requirement is to obtain a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number). If you’re not in Spain, the process can be completed 100% remotely through a power of attorney.
Popular search terms: open a company in Spain as a foreigner, register a business in Spain from the UK, start a business in Spain from the USA or Netherlands.
Step-by-Step: How to Set Up an SL in Spain (Sociedad Limitada)
- Reserve a Company Name: Apply to the Central Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil Central) to obtain a certificate confirming your proposed company name is available.
- Open a Spanish Business Bank Account: Deposit the minimum share capital of €3,000 into an account in the company’s name. A certificate of deposit will be issued.
- Draft the Bylaws (Estatutos Sociales): These define the company’s legal structure, decision-making bodies, shareholding, and scope of business.
- Sign the Public Deed of Incorporation: This is done before a notary. If you appoint LEXTAX through a power of attorney, you won’t need to be present in Spain.
- Apply for a Provisional NIF (Tax ID): The company’s tax number is issued by the Agencia Tributaria and is necessary for legal operations.
- Register at the Provincial Mercantile Registry: This finalizes the legal incorporation and grants you official status as a Spanish company.
- File Modelo 036 and Register for IAE: This step officially registers your economic activity with the tax office and classifies your business under the Impuesto de Actividades Económicas.
- Register with Spanish Social Security: Obtain a Código de Cuenta de Cotización (CCC) if hiring employees or contributing as a director.
- Apply for Municipal Licenses: Some business activities require a Licencia de Apertura or additional permits, depending on your sector and location.
Documents Required to Register a Company in Spain
- Valid passport or EU national ID
- NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
- Three proposed company names
- Business activity description
- Power of attorney (for remote setup)
At-a-Glance: Key Company Formation Facts
- Legal Form: Sociedad Limitada (SL)
- Minimum Capital: €3,000
- Incorporation Time: 7 to 14 business days
- Remote Setup: Yes
- Languages Supported: English, Spanish, Dutch, French
- Electronic Invoicing: Mandatory from January 1, 2026
Spanish Corporate Taxation for SL Companies
- Corporate Income Tax: 25%
- VAT (IVA): 21%
- Social Security: Mandatory for staff and directors
- Payroll Withholdings: Required if hiring employees
At LEXTAX, we manage your monthly accounting and corporate tax filings to keep you fully compliant.
E-Invoicing in Spain: Compulsory in 2026
From January 1, 2026, all SLs must issue electronic invoices. LEXTAX provides e-invoicing software and support to help you comply effortlessly with the upcoming law.
Language Support & Remote Setup
Whether you speak English, Dutch, or French, our team offers full assistance in your language. No physical travel to Spain is required. We manage everything with full legal representation via power of attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions – Company Formation in Spain
Can LEXTAX handle everything for me?
Yes. We take care of every step—from NIE to registration and ongoing support.
Do I need to travel to Spain?
No. Everything can be handled remotely with a notarised power of attorney.
What’s included in the full service?
Our packages include NIE, bank account help, company deed, notary, tax ID, social security, and e-invoicing setup.
Is Spanish mandatory?
No. All documentation and communication are provided in English or your preferred language.
Why Choose LEXTAX?
LEXTAX is a boutique firm specialising in business formation in Spain, taxation, and compliance for foreign investors. Our legal and tax professionals will guide you through the process, ensuring every document and obligation is correctly handled—so you can focus on launching your business.
Ready to open your Spanish SL company?