Why Start a Travel Agency in Spain?
Spain is a top global tourist destination, welcoming over 80 million visitors annually. Opening a travel agency here—whether online, physical, or hybrid—offers solid business opportunities for expats and foreign investors.
✅ You can fully own a travel agency in Spain as a non-EU national through an SL (limited company) or self-employed status.
🧾 Choose a Legal Structure
1. Sociedad Limitada (SL) – Limited Liability Company
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Minimum capital: €3,000
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Separate legal entity (ideal for liability protection)
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Can be formed remotely with a Power of Attorney
2. Autónomo – Sole Trader
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Lower initial setup costs
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Suitable for freelancers or boutique agencies
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Owner assumes full liability
📌 Most foreign founders choose the SL structure for protection and tax advantages.
✅ Step-by-Step: How to Open a Travel Agency in Spain
1️⃣ Reserve Business Name
Register a unique name with the Central Mercantile Registry (RMC)
2️⃣ Draft and Sign Company Deed
Before a notary, or via Power of Attorney
3️⃣ Obtain NIF (Tax ID)
Essential for business registration and taxation
4️⃣ Open Bank Account
Deposit share capital (for SL)
5️⃣ Register the Company
With the:
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Mercantile Registry
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Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria)
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Social Security System (if employing staff)
🛂 Mandatory Tourism License
To operate legally, all travel agencies must obtain a Tourism Agency License (Título-Licencia de Agencia de Viajes).
📋 Requirements:
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Office (physical or virtual) in Spain
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Proof of economic solvency
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Bank guarantee or surety insurance (up to €100,000, varies by region)
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Professional liability insurance
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Clean criminal record for directors
📌 Issued by the regional tourism authority (e.g., Comunidad de Madrid, Generalitat de Catalunya)
🧾 Additional Requirements
📱 Digital Infrastructure
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Functional website with clear terms and privacy policy
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Secure payment systems
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Booking platform (optional but recommended)
💼 Insurance Policies
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Civil Liability Insurance
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Travel Guarantee Insurance (in case of insolvency or trip cancellation)
💰 Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Company formation (SL) | €1,500 – €2,500 |
| Share capital (SL) | €3,000 (can be used later) |
| Tourism license fees + insurance | €1,500 – €4,000 |
| Office rent or virtual address | Varies by region |
| Web & booking platform setup | €1,000 – €3,000 |
| Monthly accounting & tax service | €250 – €400 |
💼 Tax Obligations
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VAT (IVA): 21% standard rate
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Corporate Tax (SL): 25% on profits
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IRPF (Income Tax) if registered as autónomo
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Quarterly tax returns and annual accounts required
📌 VAT rules vary if you sell cross-border travel services in the EU.
🧑💼 Employing Staff
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Register with Social Security
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Draft compliant employment contracts
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Respect minimum wage and work-hour laws
🌐 Services for Foreign Entrepreneurs
At Borderless Lawyers, we help you:
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✅ Choose the best structure (SL or autónomo)
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✅ Draft corporate bylaws and submit registrations
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✅ Apply for tourism license and obtain insurance
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✅ Set up fiscal representation and accounting
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✅ Ensure compliance with advertising and data protection laws
💬 Real Client Example
Client: A Canadian couple launched an eco-tour travel agency in Valencia.
Our services:
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SL setup via Power of Attorney
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Licensing with the regional tourism board
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Civil and insolvency insurance
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Web legal notice & GDPR compliance
🗓️ Their business was legally operational in under 6 weeks.
📞 Ready to Launch Your Travel Business in Spain?
Let Borderless Lawyers guide your journey—from business formation to license approval. We simplify the process so you can focus on building unforgettable travel experiences.