Quick answer: To start a business in Spain in 2025, you must obtain a NIE/NIF, choose your business structure (Autónomo or SL), register with the Agencia Tributaria (Spanish Tax Agency), register with Social Security, and apply for specific licenses if required. This is the most complete and updated guide (2025) with official links, legal references, costs, timelines, checklists, and case studies.
Why This Guide is Reliable (2025 Edition)
- Based on official Spanish government sources:
- Cross-checked with major legal/immigration firms:
- Updated with Spain’s 2025 tax, visa & business regulation changes.
- Includes step-by-step instructions, official forms, fees & timelines.
- Optimized for foreigners: EU & non-EU (entrepreneur visa explained).
Overview: Starting a Business in Spain (2025)
Spain remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurship, digital nomads, freelancers, and small businesses.
Key facts (2025):
- Time to register as Autónomo: 24–72 hours
- Time to create an SL company: 10–45 days
- Cost to open an SL: €300–€800 + optional capital (€1 minimum)
- Cost to start as Autónomo: €0 + NIE fee (€10–€15)
- Monthly Social Security:
- Autónomos: From €80/month (2025 Tarifa Reducida)
- SL director: Approx. €300–€340/month
Source:
Expatica,
Balcells Group,
Immigration Spain.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Start a Business in Spain (Foreigners, 2025)
Step 1 — Obtain Your NIE (Foreign ID Number)
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is required for ALL foreigners who want to:
- Open a business
- Pay taxes
- Open a bank account
- Sign contracts
Official NIE Info:
Spanish Government Portal
Where to apply:
- Spanish Police Station (in Spain)
- Spanish Consulate (outside Spain)
Cost: €10–15 (Modelo 790 Código 012).
Step 2 — Choose Your Legal Business Structure
Spain has two main forms for individual entrepreneurs:
1. Autónomo (Self-Employed)
Best for: freelancers, solo business owners, small online businesses.
Pros:
- Fast registration (same day)
- Low cost
- No capital needed
Cons:
- Personal liability
- Higher taxes at high incomes
2. Sociedad Limitada (SL)
Best for: growing businesses, partners, higher revenue, limited liability needed.
Pros:
- Limited liability protection
- More professional for clients
Cons:
- More paperwork
- Notary & registry fees (€300–€800)
Official SL Info:
Cámara de Comercio — Crear una empresa
Step 3 — Register with the Tax Agency (AEAT)
Every business must register with the Agencia Tributaria:
Official AEAT Portal:
https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es
Forms required:
- Modelo 036 (full declaration)
- Modelo 037 (simplified)
You must register your:
- Business activity (IAE)
- VAT status (IVA) — 21%, 10%, 4%
- Tax obligations (quarterly returns)
Step 4 — Register with Social Security
Autónomos: must join RETA via:
Official Social Security:
https://www.seg-social.es
2025 Social Security fees for new autónomos:
- Year 1: €80/month
- Year 2: Income-based
SL owners: must register company + director + employees.
Step 5 — Open a Business Bank Account
Banks commonly used by foreigners:
- Santander
- BBVA
- Sabadell
- CaixaBank
SL must deposit share capital.
Autónomos: recommended but not required.
Step 6 — Apply for Licenses (If Needed)
Depending on your business type:
- Restaurants & Bars → Opening License + Health Permit
- Shops → Commercial Activity License
- Online businesses → no licenses except privacy (GDPR)
Check with local Town Hall (Ayuntamiento):
Search your city: Administración.gob.es
Step 7 — Start Operating (Invoicing, Taxes, Compliance)
- Issue invoices (with legal requirements)
- Register sales & expenses
- Submit quarterly tax declarations:
- Modelo 130 (IRPF Autónomos)
- Modelo 303 (IVA)
- Modelo 111 (withholdings)
Cost Breakdown — Starting a Business in Spain (2025)
| Category | Autónomo | SL |
|---|---|---|
| NIE | €10–15 | €10–15 |
| AEAT Registration | Free | Free |
| Notary | — | €150–€300 |
| Mercantile Registry | — | €100–€250 |
| Accountant | €40–€80/mo | €80–€120/mo |
| Social Security | €80/mo | €300–€340/mo |
FAQ — Starting a Business in Spain (2025)
Can foreigners open a business in Spain?
Yes. EU citizens only need NIE. Non-EU citizens need a visa/residence permit.
How long does it take?
Autónomo: 1–3 days. SL: 2–6 weeks.
Do I need a business plan?
Only for visas (entrepreneur visa).
What is the cheapest way to start?
Autónomo (€0 setup + €80/month social security).
Do I need a Spanish accountant?
Highly recommended due to tax complexity.
