🇪🇸 Why You Need a Business Account in Barcelona
If you’re launching a business in Barcelona — whether a freelancer or SL company — a Spanish business bank account is essential for:
✅ Depositing share capital (€3,000 for SL companies)
✅ Paying employees and contractors
✅ Handling tax obligations (Modelo 111, 303, 200)
✅ Receiving payments from local and EU clients
📌 Spain does not allow personal accounts to be used for SL companies.
🏛️ Which Banks Are Available in Barcelona?
| Bank | Pros |
|---|---|
| CaixaBank | Largest branch network, good for locals |
| Banco Sabadell | Friendly to foreigners, English service |
| BBVA | Strong online platform |
| Bankinter | Flexible for startups |
| Revolut Business / Wise | Online-only, great for international transfers (not ideal for capital deposit) |
We work directly with multiple banks in Barcelona to set up accounts for foreign owners.
🧾 Documents Needed to Open a Business Bank Account
| For SL Companies | For Freelancers (Autónomos) |
|---|---|
| NIE of shareholders/directors | NIE of freelancer |
| Company deed (escritura) | Proof of registration as autónomo |
| Tax ID (CIF) | Tax registration confirmation |
| Business plan or activity | Description of services offered |
| Bank capital deposit form | N/A |
💡 Banks may request additional due diligence, especially for non-EU founders.
✍️ Can You Open an Account Remotely?
Yes — with Power of Attorney (POA), you can open the bank account without traveling to Spain.
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We draft and legalize POA
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Submit documentation to the bank
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Coordinate share capital deposit for SL formation
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Obtain official bank certificate (certificado bancario)
📎 Especially useful for foreign investors or clients forming a company from abroad.
💳 What About Online-Only Banks?
Options like Revolut Business or Wise are great for international companies but:
❌ Cannot be used to deposit share capital for an SL
❌ May not integrate with AEAT for Spanish tax filings
✅ Useful for expense cards and FX payments once operational
We recommend traditional Spanish banks for incorporation, then optionally add online banks later.
💡 Tips for Foreign Founders
✅ Schedule appointments in advance — banks in Barcelona operate by appointment only
✅ Prepare all original documents, apostilled and translated if necessary
✅ Have a legal representative present if you’re not attending
✅ Maintain separate accounts for personal and business finances
✅ Inform the bank if you’ll receive high-volume or international transfers
🧑💼 Our Business Banking Services in Barcelona
At Borderless Lawyers, we assist with:
✅ Preparing all documentation for business bank setup
✅ Coordinating bank appointments or remote POA process
✅ Depositing share capital and obtaining official certificate
✅ Liaising with banks that understand foreign ownership
✅ Helping you stay compliant with AML and tax reporting laws
📞 Open Your Business Account in Barcelona — In Person or Remotely
Don’t let Spanish bureaucracy slow you down. We handle the full bank setup process so you can focus on building your business.
👉 Contact us to open your business bank account in Barcelona with legal support.