Setting up a business in Spain involves navigating a unique legal landscape, which can be complex if you’re not familiar with the system. For many international entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Spain, it can often feel overwhelming. At Gascon Bernabeu, we specialise in helping English-speaking clients navigate the legal process of company formation in Spain. We provide expert legal advice and guidance to make sure that your business complies with Spanish laws and gets off to a successful start.

Whether you’re looking to set up a small company or a larger business, our team of experienced lawyers will guide you through every step of the process. We’ll simplify Spanish business law, making sure it’s clear and manageable every step of the way so you can focus on setting up your business.

What you need to know about company formation in Spain

When starting a business in Spain, one of the first things to consider is which company structure is right for your needs. There are a few different options available, depending on the size and nature of your business. These include registering as an Autónomo (sole trader or self-employed), setting up a Sociedad Limitada (SL), which is the most common structure for small to medium-sized businesses, or incorporating a Sociedad Anónima (SA), typically used for larger organisations or corporations. You might also consider a branch formation if you’re expanding an existing company into Spain.

Once you’ve chosen the right structure, the next step is to register the company name, prepare the required documentation, and define the company’s capital structure. This includes drafting the company’s bylaws, registering with the Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil), and making sure all directors and shareholders have their NIEs (Spanish tax identification numbers). Each of these steps must be handled correctly to make sure your business is in full legal compliance.

Our team of expert English-speaking Spanish lawyers will support you at every stage, making sure the process is clear, smooth, and properly managed under Spanish law.

How our English-speaking lawyers can help

Starting a business in Spain is very different from other countries like the US and those in the UK, so having an expert as a point of contact to help you through the process is going to make everything much easier. Our English-speaking solicitors specialise in Spanish business law and will help you with all the steps involved in forming your company.

From the beginning, we will explain your options, including which business structure is most suitable for your goals. We’ll handle the legal paperwork, including drafting the company’s bylaws and filing all required documents with the Spanish authorities. We’ll also ensure that the company’s directors and shareholders have their NIE numbers and that the company is properly registered with the Mercantile Registry.

As part of the process, we will also help you understand Spain’s corporate tax system and other local regulations that may affect your business. This includes VAT registration, tax filing, and how to handle employment law if you plan to hire staff. We’ll also make sure your business meets all local requirements so it runs smoothly from the start.