Understanding Share Capital Requirements in Spain
When setting up a company in Spain, one of the key decisions is choosing the legal structure — and each comes with its own minimum share capital requirement.
This capital represents the initial financial base of your business and is essential for registration with Spanish authorities.
📊 Minimum Capital by Company Type
1. SL – Sociedad Limitada (Limited Liability Company)
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💰 Minimum Share Capital: €1
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🔐 Liability is limited to the capital invested
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✅ Common for small to medium-sized businesses
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🏦 Capital must be fully subscribed and paid in at incorporation
⚠️ Although €1 is the legal minimum, we recommend a higher amount (e.g., €3,000) to ensure financial credibility and avoid certain restrictions under new reforms.
2. SA – Sociedad Anónima (Public Limited Company)
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💰 Minimum Share Capital: €60,000
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🏦 At least 25% must be paid in at the time of incorporation
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👥 Suitable for large or publicly traded companies
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📈 Can issue shares and access financial markets
3. New Company Limited Company (SLNE – Sociedad Limitada Nueva Empresa)
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💰 Minimum Share Capital: €3,000 – €120,000
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📄 Designed for quick startup processes
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👤 Limited to five shareholders and one director
⚙️ What Does “Share Capital” Mean in Practice?
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It’s the initial investment made by shareholders.
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It can be monetary (cash) or non-monetary (assets).
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Must be deposited into a Spanish bank account before incorporation.
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Proof of deposit is required by the Notary Public and Mercantile Registry.
🛠️ Step-by-Step Incorporation: Capital Requirements
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🏦 Open a company bank account
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💶 Deposit the capital (e.g., €1 for SL, €60,000 for SA)
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📜 Obtain a certificate of deposit from the bank
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🖊️ Sign the deed of incorporation before a Notary
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🧾 Submit documentation to the Mercantile Registry
🔍 FAQs About Capital Requirements in Spain
Do I need to prove the capital deposit?
Yes — a certificate from your bank is necessary at incorporation, especially for SLs and SAs.
Can I contribute assets instead of money?
Yes. Non-monetary contributions must be appraised and described in the articles of association.
What if I only invest €1 in an SL?
It’s legal under new reforms, but:
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You may face liability limitations if losses occur.
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Creditors can pursue unpaid share capital.
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It may reduce your company’s credibility with banks or investors.
📌 Summary: Share Capital by Type
| Company Type | Minimum Share Capital | Paid Up at Incorporation |
|---|---|---|
| SL | €1 (recommended €3,000) | 100% |
| SA | €60,000 | 25% minimum |
| SLNE | €3,000 – €120,000 | 100% |
👨⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We guide you through:
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Choosing the right company type
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Structuring share capital legally
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Opening Spanish bank accounts
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Drafting articles of association
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Incorporating remotely or in person
📁 Whether you’re forming a startup, a holding company, or a high-capital SA, we ensure full compliance with Spanish law.
✅ Set Up Your Spanish Company with Confidence
The right share capital protects your company, satisfies Spanish legal requirements, and improves your financial standing.