🇪🇸 Why Start a Business in Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of Europe’s most dynamic startup and business hubs. It combines Mediterranean lifestyle, top-tier infrastructure, and a vibrant international economy. For foreigners, it’s a hotspot for tech, hospitality, consulting, and creative industries.
✅ Ranked top 5 tech ecosystems in Europe
✅ Over 1,300 foreign-owned companies
✅ Fast-growing remote work and digital nomad base
✅ Talent pool from Spain and the EU
✅ Access to international markets
🏢 Legal Business Structures in Spain
Foreigners typically choose one of the following when forming a business:
| Legal Form | Description |
|---|---|
| SL (Sociedad Limitada) | Private limited company (most common) |
| Autónomo | Sole trader / freelancer |
| SA (Sociedad Anónima) | Public limited company (for large scale) |
| Branch Office | Extension of a foreign company |
💡 For most foreign entrepreneurs, the SL is the ideal structure — limited liability, tax flexibility, and fast incorporation.
📝 Step-by-Step: How to Register a Company in Barcelona
1. Get a NIE (Foreigner ID Number)
You need a NIE to sign contracts, open a bank account, or register a business. We assist with express NIE appointments in Barcelona.
2. Choose a Company Name
Apply to the Central Mercantile Registry (RMC) for a name certificate.
3. Open a Business Bank Account
Deposit minimum capital of €3,000 for an SL and obtain a bank certificate.
4. Draft the Company Bylaws & POA (if remote)
We create the bylaws and can register your business via power of attorney if you’re abroad.
5. Sign the Deed of Incorporation at Notary
Must be done by you or your legal representative.
6. Register with the Mercantile Registry of Barcelona
This officially creates your business.
7. Obtain your NIF (Company Tax ID)
Final step: activate your tax number with Agencia Tributaria.
💡 Our lawyers handle all steps remotely or in-person, including translations, notary, and tax registration.
🧾 Tax Obligations for New Businesses in Barcelona
| Tax Type | Rate / Requirement |
|---|---|
| Corporate Tax (SL) | 25% standard (15% for new businesses, 2 yrs) |
| VAT (IVA) | 21% (lower for certain goods/services) |
| Freelance Income Tax | Progressive up to 47% (if autónomo) |
| Withholding Tax (IRPF) | 15% for professional invoices |
We register your company with the Barcelona tax office and help file quarterly and annual returns.
🧑💼 Hiring Employees in Barcelona
To hire staff legally:
-
Register with Social Security
-
Draft compliant employment contracts
-
Understand labor laws and severance rights
-
Pay contributions (~30% employer-side)
💡 We handle employment registration, contracts, and payroll compliance.
🏢 Office or Virtual Address in Barcelona?
To register your SL, you need a business address in Spain. Options:
-
Rent a private office or coworking space (Poblenou, Eixample, Sant Antoni)
-
Use a virtual office for registration only
-
Register at home (possible in some cases, depending on zoning)
💡 We help review lease contracts and zoning laws, and register your business address properly.
🛂 Can Business Formation Lead to Residency?
Yes. Foreigners can obtain residency through business formation under:
-
Self-employment permit (autónomo)
-
Entrepreneur Visa (for innovative business)
-
Digital Nomad Visa (if business income is from abroad)
💡 We offer combined packages: company formation + immigration.
💼 Business Sectors Booming in Barcelona
✔️ Tech Startups
✔️ Tourism & Short-Term Rentals (legal advice crucial)
✔️ Marketing & Digital Services
✔️ Real Estate Agencies
✔️ Food & Beverage (requires licenses)
⚖️ Legal Services for Business Owners in Barcelona
We provide:
✅ SL and autónomo registration
✅ NIE, NIF, social security setup
✅ Drafting of bylaws, POA, and notarial filings
✅ Tax filing, bookkeeping, and payroll
✅ Business immigration advice
✅ Contract and regulatory compliance
📞 Ready to Start a Business in Barcelona?
Our English-speaking lawyers simplify the process so you can launch with confidence — from legal setup to tax strategy.
👉 Contact us today to start your company in Barcelona — stress-free and legally compliant.