🇪🇸 Spain · Company Registration
Entity types, registration process, required documents, costs, and official registries.
Quick answer
The usual vehicle is a Sociedad Limitada (SL), formed by a notarial deed and registered in the Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil). Founders need a Spanish tax ID (NIF, and an NIE for individuals), and there is a modest minimum share capital.
Companies in Spain register with the Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil); a limited company (SL) is formed by notarial deed and then registered. Founders need a Spanish tax identifier.
- A limited company (SL) is formed by notarial deed and entered in the Registro Mercantil.
- Founders obtain an NIF tax identifier; a foreign individual needs an NIE first.
- Name clearance and depositing the share capital are part of incorporation.
Official authorities
- Colegio de Registradores
Association of Registrars — Mercantile Registry information.
Frequently asked questions
How much capital does an SL need?
The minimum share capital is low (recently reduced) and must be stated and deposited on formation.
Do I need an NIE to start a company?
Yes — foreign founders need a foreigner tax number (NIE), and the company itself gets an NIF.
How long does it take?
With a notary appointment and name clearance, incorporation typically takes one to a few weeks.
Official-information aggregation, not legal advice. Always verify on the authority's own site.