Spain Guide: Business
In this section you will find all the information you need about starting a business in Spain. It includes information on how to do your research, how to obtain legal advice, what sort of company to create and how to go about employing people.-
Introduction A word of warning
For many foreigners who are thinking of a new life in Spain, owning their own business is all part of the dream. What better way to escape the daily grind than to be your own boss? more » -
Research How to carry out your research
If you have access to the internet, you can begin your general research online, checking out basics such as the legalities of starting a business, where to obtain good advice and the area of Spain you’re interested in. more » -
Legal & Professional Advice How to find professional help
When you’re setting up a business in Spain, there’s a considerable amount of paperwork to get through and you’re responsible for dealing with it correctly, as well as for obtaining the required licences and paying all necessary taxes on time. more » -
Business Premises What are the options?
Once you know what kind of business you want to run and have decided on the best area, you will need to begin looking for suitable premises, known as locales. more » -
Business Entities What kind of company is your best option?
While you’re deciding on the kind of business premises you need, you should also consider which kind of company might be the best option for you and your business. more » -
Incorporation How to legally incorporate your company
Below is a guide to the steps that should be taken on your behalf to legally incorporate your company. It is not a substitute for legal and professional services but may help you to keep your advisers on their toes! more » -
Accounting What you need to do
Spanish accounting regulations are contained in the Commercial Code and Corporations Law and they oblige all companies to record every economic transaction appropriate to their activity. more » -
Buying an Existing Business What to look out for
If you don’t want to get involved in starting a business from scratch, buying an existing business may be the answer, especially if you’re considering a business such as a shop, a bar or a restaurant. more » -
Employing Staff The implications of employing people in Spain
Think very carefully indeed before you employ staff in Spain. It’s no exaggeration to say that you will be stepping into the proverbial minefield. more » -
Planning ahead Financing your business in Spain
If you’re making a living in Spain, in whatever capacity, you will need to familiarise yourself with all kinds of financial matters, so that you remain firmly in control of your new working life. more » -
Grants & incentives Financial assistance for setting up a business
An important part of financing your business is to take advantage of any grants or incentives for which you qualify. In theory, there’s plenty of financial assistance available in Spain, via the European Union and at national, regional, provincial and local level, especially for small and medium size businesses. more » -
Loans Getting a loan for your business in Spain
Many people have difficulty securing bank loans to start up their businesses. Although the Spanish banking system has improved dramatically in the last 15 years, when it comes to lending, banks aren’t generally great risk-takers. more » -
Taxation The Spanish tax system
Before starting a business in Spain or starting work there, it’s important to find out what your tax liabilities are. Before you make any decisions, and certainly before you move to Spain, it’s advisable to consult a tax adviser who’s familiar with taxation laws both in your home country and in Spain. more » -
Tax declaration How to declare taxes in Spain
If you have any kind of income in Spain – whether you’re a salaried employee or self-employed, own a business, are retired or are unemployed, and whether you’re a resident or non-resident of Spain – you must submit a tax declaration. more » -
Business taxation Company taxation in Spain
If you have your own company, are a sole trader or are self-employed, you will have to pay not only your own personal income tax but also possibly a tax on your economic activities, and all Spanish companies – but not the self-employed and sole traders – must pay corporation tax. more » -
Additional taxes Capital gains tax, VAT and property tax
Besides income and corporate tax, there are quite a few additional taxes that you might have to consider on your calculations. The following text gives you an overview. more » -
Social Security The social security system in Spain
If you work or own a business in Spain, you must, by law, pay into the social security system. Although payments are high, benefits are excellent and the system is comprehensive and covers a multitude of insurances. more »