How to Start a Business in Málaga as a Foreigner – SL Companies & Freelancers Explained

🇪🇸 Why Málaga Is a Top Choice for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Málaga is one of the most attractive Spanish cities for business setup thanks to:

✅ Thriving digital nomad and startup ecosystem
✅ Favorable weather and lifestyle for international teams
✅ Strong infrastructure, co-working spaces, and tech parks (PTA Málaga)
✅ Large expat and English-speaking population

Whether you’re launching a tech startup, an e-commerce business, or becoming a self-employed consultant, Málaga offers legal pathways for foreigners.


🏢 Business Structures in Málaga

Structure Best For Requires NIE?
SL Company (Sociedad Limitada) Startups, international founders ✅ Yes
Freelancer (Autónomo) Consultants, solo service providers ✅ Yes
Foreign Branch or Subsidiary Expanding existing company into Spain ✅ Yes

We help you choose the right structure and register it legally.


🧾 Steps to Open a Company (SL) in Málaga

  1. Get a NIE (Foreigner ID number)

  2. Choose a company name via the Mercantile Registry

  3. Open a business bank account and deposit €3,000 capital

  4. Draft Articles of Association

  5. Sign before a Málaga notary (can be done by POA)

  6. Obtain CIF (company tax number) from AEAT

  7. Register for taxes and social security

  8. Register with the Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil)

📌 All steps can be done remotely with Power of Attorney — no need to travel.


👨‍💻 Becoming a Freelancer (Autónomo) in Málaga

This is a fast-track setup for solo entrepreneurs and consultants:

✅ Register with AEAT (Modelo 036 or 037)
✅ Choose your tax regime (direct estimation or modules)
✅ Register with Social Security
✅ Optional: get included in the ROI/VIES if billing EU clients
✅ You can work from home or use a co-working space in Málaga

📅 Setup takes 1–3 days if you already have a NIE.


🏠 Registered Address in Málaga

Every business (SL or freelancer) must have a registered fiscal address in Spain. Options include:

  • Residential address (if legally allowed)

  • Rented office or shop

  • Co-working space with fiscal address services

  • Virtual office in Málaga city center

We can provide legal registered office solutions if needed.


🌐 Can I Start a Business Remotely?

Yes. Through Power of Attorney (POA), we can:

✅ Get your NIE
✅ Open your bank account
✅ Sign at the notary
✅ Submit all registrations

You don’t need to be in Spain — ideal for non-resident founders.


💡 Typical Businesses Foreigners Open in Málaga

  • Remote tech startups and SaaS companies

  • Real estate firms

  • Hospitality and tourism agencies

  • Consulting and online services

  • E-commerce stores

  • Language schools or coaching


❌ Common Mistakes When Starting a Business in Málaga

⛔ Not translating company documents into Spanish
⛔ Choosing the wrong tax regime
⛔ Using a non-compliant business address
⛔ Not registering with the right local AEAT office
⛔ Failing to open the bank account in time for incorporation


🧑‍💼 Our Business Setup Services in Málaga

Borderless Lawyers provides:

✅ SL company formation with POA
✅ Freelancer (autónomo) registration
✅ NIE and CIF processing
✅ Notary and tax agency coordination
✅ Registered address and virtual office
✅ Legal support in English and Spanish


📞 Ready to Start Your Business in Málaga?

Whether you’re launching a company or going solo, we’ll handle the legal side — remotely, efficiently, and 100% compliant.

👉 Contact us to open your business in Málaga with full legal support.

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