Starting a Business in Spain: SL Company Registration Guide

Planning to establish a business in Spain? The most popular structure is the SL (Sociedad Limitada - Limited Liability Company). This guide covers the benefits, registration steps, costs, timeline, and ongoing compliance requirements.

Why Choose SL Structure?

✓ Limited liability protection (personal assets protected)
✓ Recognized legal entity for contracts and banking
✓ Tax advantages over individual business
✓ Flexibility in profit distribution
✓ Professional credibility with customers and suppliers
✓ EU-wide recognition

SL Registration Requirements

Minimum Capital: €3,000 (can be contributed gradually)
Shareholders: 1 or more (individuals or companies)
Administration: At least one administrator (shareholder or external)
Registered Address: Physical address in Spain

Registration Steps & Timeline

Step 1: Choose Company Name (1-2 days)
Name must be unique and approved by Commercial Registry. Check availability online before proceeding.

Step 2: Prepare Articles of Incorporation (1-2 days)
Legal document defining company structure, shareholders, administrators, and operational rules. Template available or custom drafted.

Step 3: Open Bank Account (1-2 days)
Bank account opened in company name. Capital contribution deposited and verified. Bank issues certification of deposit.

Step 4: Notary Formalization (1 day)
Articles signed before notary. Notary verifies identity and authenticity. Document officially executed.

Step 5: Commercial Registry Registration (5-10 days)
Notary-executed document submitted to Commercial Registry. Company registered and official certificate issued.

Step 6: Tax Authority Registration (1-2 days)
Company registered with Spanish tax authorities. NIF (tax ID) assigned.

Step 7: Social Security Registration (1-2 days)
Company registered with social security. Affiliation codes obtained for payroll.

Total Timeline: 10-15 working days (standard), 5 days (expedited with additional fees)

Registration Costs

• Notary fees: €200-€400
• Commercial Registry: €100-€150
• Bank deposit verification: €0-€50
• Legal/accounting assistance: €500-€1,500
• Total typical cost: €800-€2,100

Post-Registration Compliance

After registration, company must:
• Maintain registered office
• Keep company books and records
• File annual accounts within 3 months of fiscal year-end
• File annual tax returns
• Register any share transfers or ownership changes
• Maintain statutory compliance

Quick Start Package

AURUM offers complete SL registration packages including: name verification, articles of incorporation, notary coordination, tax and social security registration, and initial accounting setup. Expedited 5-day registration available.