Company Formation in Spain [2026 Guide]
Set up your SL, SA or self-employment in Spain as a foreigner. Minimum capital from €1 (2023 reform), timeline 3–5 weeks. Full English-speaking service.
Incorporation process
NIE for all shareholders
All shareholders and directors need a NIE to sign at the notary.
Company name clearance
We obtain clearance from the Central Commercial Registry to reserve your company name.
Provisional bank account
We deposit the minimum share capital (from €1 for an SL under 2024 reform).
Notarial deed
Drafting of statutes and signing of the incorporation deed at the notary.
Commercial registry and tax registration
Registration in the Commercial Registry and AEAT registration (final CIF).
SL vs SA
SL (Sociedad Limitada)
Most common. Min. capital from €1. Ideal for SMEs and self-employed with partners.
SA (Sociedad Anónima)
Min. capital €60,000. For larger companies or stock market listing.
Estimated time
3–5 weeks
From NIE application to final CIF.
When do you want to incorporate?
Tell us about the project. Free first assessment.
SL vs SA vs Self-Employed — Which Is Best for You? (2026)
| SL (Ltd Company) | SA (Public Ltd) | Self-Employed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Min. capital | €1 (since 2023) | €60,000 | No capital needed |
| Liability | Limited to capital | Limited to capital | Unlimited (personal) |
| Monthly SS fee | Depends on partners | Depends on partners | ~€200/month (flat rate) |
| Min. shareholders | 1 | 1 | 1 (yourself) |
| Notary required | Yes | Yes | No |
| Commercial Registry | Yes | Yes | No |
| Formation timeline | 3–5 weeks | 3–6 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| Approx. cost | €800–€1,500 | €1,500–€3,000 | €200–€400 |
| Best for | SMEs, startups, partners | Large companies, investors | Freelancers, solo |