Company Formation in Portugal

Why Open a Business in Portugal?

  • Access to the EU market.
  • Government support for startups (grants, funding).
  • Residency through entrepreneurship.

Popular Business Types:

  • Unipessoal LDA (Single Shareholder LLC)
  • Sociedade por Quotas (LDA - Limited Liability Company)
  • Sole Proprietorship (Freelancers)

Steps to Open a Company:

  1. Obtain a NIF (tax number).
  2. Open a Portuguese bank account and deposit minimum capital (€1 for LDA).
  3. Choose and register a company name.
  4. Draft Articles of Association.
  5. Register at the Commercial Registry (Conservatória).
  6. Get a Social Security Number (NISS).
  7. Register with Finanças (Tax Authority).

Required Documents:

  • Passport or Residence Card.
  • NIF Number.
  • Proof of Address.
  • Business Plan (for visa applications).

Advantages:

  • Fast setup (few days with assistance).
  • No need to be physically present (via legal proxy).
  • Eligibility for residency visas (D2 or Golden Visa).