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How to Incorporate an SL in Spain as a Non-Resident: Guide 2026

Corporate Law / Business 2026

Sociedad Limitada · Remote Incorporation · CIF & Corporate Bank Account

Incorporating a company (Sociedad Limitada) in Spain as a non-resident is an entirely achievable task — and can be done completely remotely. However, the process contains several pitfalls: from obtaining an NIE to opening a corporate bank account, where banks are increasingly refusing without proper preparation.

Steps 1–5: NIE, Notary and Registry

Forming a company in Spain requires navigating a strict sequence of administrative procedures. A single formal error at any stage can delay the process for weeks:

1-2. Obtaining an NIE and Name Reservation

An NIE is mandatory for any legal transaction. Non-residents can obtain an NIE through the Spanish consulate (3–8 weeks) or via a power of attorney granted to a lawyer in Spain (2–4 weeks). In parallel, a name reservation certificate is requested from the Registro Mercantil Central (5 name choices submitted; certificate valid for 3 months).

3-4. Notarial Signing and Share Capital

The articles of association are executed before a notary (in person or via power of attorney). The statutory minimum share capital for an SL is €3,000.

5. Mercantile Registry and AEAT Tax Registration

Registration with the Registro Mercantil takes 7–15 business days. Once registered, a tax identification number (CIF) is issued by the Tax Agency (AEAT), followed by VAT registration and ROI status for EU intra-community operations.

Incorporation Timeline:
With all documentation prepared, the entire process takes 4 to 6 weeks from initial setup to a fully operational company with an active bank account.

Step 6: Opening a Corporate Bank Account

This is the most challenging milestone for non-resident founders. Standard retail bank branches frequently reject applications due to a lack of local credit history and complex compliance checks.

Effective Route: submitting via a Private Banking direct channel accompanied by a comprehensive KYC compliance package. Our firm facilitates opening accounts with leading Spanish institutions (Sabadell, BBVA) as an official agent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does incorporating an SL cost?
Notary fees: €300–600. Mercantile Registry fee: €150–250. With our full turnkey legal assistance: between €1,200 and €1,800 all-inclusive.

Is it necessary to travel to Spain in person?
No. The entire process — from securing your NIE to opening the corporate bank account — can be completed remotely using a power of attorney.

What are the share capital requirements?
The minimum share capital for an SL is €3,000, deposited into the company’s bank account upon formation.

Incorporate Your Company Remotely?
Schedule a consultation with our corporate lawyer in Barcelona:
📞 +34 696 85 95 47 | 🌐 igorlapchynskyi.com
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