Why Start a Startup in Spain?
Spain is quickly becoming a top destination for startups, thanks to:
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🌍 A vibrant international business environment
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📊 Access to EU markets
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💸 Competitive costs compared to other European countries
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🌞 Excellent quality of life for founders and employees
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🧑💻 Thriving tech and innovation ecosystems in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia
🧾 Legal Requirements to Start a Startup in Spain
To legally launch a startup, you’ll need to follow these main steps:
✅ 1. Choose the Right Legal Structure
Most startups in Spain register as:
| Legal Form | Description | Min. Capital |
|---|---|---|
| 📦 SL (Sociedad Limitada) | Similar to a limited liability company | €3,000 |
| 🧠 Autónomo | Self-employed setup (best for freelancers) | None |
| 🏢 S.A. (Sociedad Anónima) | Ideal for large-scale ventures | €60,000 |
🆔 2. Get a NIE (Foreigner ID Number)
You need a NIE to register the business, open a bank account, and pay taxes.
🏦 3. Open a Business Bank Account
Deposit the initial share capital and obtain a bank certificate.
🧾 4. Register the Company
Register with:
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Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil)
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Tax Authority (Agencia Tributaria)
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Social Security (Seguridad Social)
🧳 Startup Visa for Spain (Ley de Startups)
Spain now offers a Startup Visa under the new Startup Law, allowing non-EU entrepreneurs to launch and run innovative businesses from Spain.
🛂 Who Qualifies?
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Non-EU entrepreneurs with an innovative business plan
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Proof of financial solvency
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Approval from ENISA, a public agency that evaluates startup viability
📃 Key Benefits:
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Residence permit valid for 3 years, renewable
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Fast-tracked application process
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Family reunification included
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Access to special tax incentives for digital nomads
💰 Funding and Tax Benefits
Startups in Spain can benefit from:
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🚀 Grants and loans from ENISA, ICEX, and regional programs
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🧾 Lower corporate tax rates (reduced to 15% for new startups)
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💸 Private investors and venture capital ecosystems
🌐 Popular Startup Hubs in Spain
| City | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| 📍 Barcelona | Tech, biotech, fintech |
| 📍 Madrid | AI, legaltech, SaaS |
| 📍 Valencia | Greentech, edtech, logistics |
| 📍 Málaga | Cybersecurity, gaming, digital nomads |
🧑⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We guide you through every step of launching your startup:
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✅ Company formation and NIE registration
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📄 Drafting bylaws and business plans for ENISA
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🛂 Startup visa applications and renewals
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💼 Employment law and tax compliance
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🤝 Intellectual property, investor agreements, and more
💬 Client Testimonial
“Thanks to Borderless Lawyers, our fintech startup was up and running in 4 weeks. The legal team handled everything seamlessly.”
— Louis M., France
📞 Launch Your Startup in Spain With Confidence
We help founders like you turn innovative ideas into registered, compliant, and scalable businesses in Spain.