Company Registration in Portugal
Why Register a Company in Portugal?
Portugal is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs and investors due to its:
- Residency Options: Business ownership can support residency applications.
- Strategic Location: Access to both EU and international markets.
- Low Corporate Tax Benefits: Standard corporate tax is 21%, with potential reductions in specific regions (Madeira 5% corporate tax under certain conditions).
- Double Tax Treaties: Portugal has agreements with many countries to avoid double taxation.
- Digital Nomad & Start-Up Friendly: Excellent infrastructure for remote work and tech businesses.
- Quality of Life: High standard of living, sunny climate, and safety.
Common Company Types in Portugal
- Sociedade por Quotas (LDA) – Similar to a Private Limited Company (most popular).
- Sociedade Anónima (SA) – Similar to a Public Limited Company (for larger businesses).
- Branch Office – For foreign companies expanding into Portugal.
- Sole Trader (Empresário em Nome Individual) – For individual entrepreneurs.
Required Documents (For Non-Residents)
Personal Documents:
Valid Passport or EU ID Card.
Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF).
Proof of address (recent utility bill or bank statement).
Criminal record certificate from your country of residence (translated & apostilled if required).
Company Documents:
Proposed company name (Nova Vista will assist with name availability check).
Articles of Association (company statutes).
Shareholder and director details (names, addresses, ID).
Share capital deposit confirmation (minimum €1 for LDA, though recommended €5,000+).
Visa Process & Timeline
Step 1 - Tax Identification Number (NIF):
- For all shareholders/directors without residency in Portugal.
- Duration: 1-2 business days.
Step 2 - Company Name Approval:
- Reservation of name through RNPC (National Register of Legal Entities).
- Duration: 1-2 business days.
Step 3 - Opening a Bank Account & Share Capital Deposit:
- Company bank account in Portugal.
- Duration: 3-5 business days (may vary for non-residents).
Step 4 - Signing the Incorporation Documents:
- Can be done in person or via Power of Attorney.
- Duration: 1-3 business days.
Step 5 - Official Registration & VAT Activation:
- Registration with Commercial Registry Office and Tax Authority.
- Duration: 3-5 business days.
Average Total Time: 1–2 weeks if all documents are ready.
How Nova Vista Holdings Supports You (From A to Z)
- Pre-Incorporation Consultation – Determine the best legal structure for your needs.
- NIF & Documentation Assistance – Full support in obtaining Portuguese tax numbers.
- Name Search & Reservation – Handle the company name registration process.
- Bank Account Opening – Coordination with Portuguese banks, including remote opening options.
- Drafting & Filing Articles of Association – Preparation and submission to authorities.
- VAT & Social Security Registration – Ensure your business is fully compliant.
- Virtual Office & Address Service – Optional registered office in Portugal.
- Ongoing Accounting & Legal Support – Maintain compliance post-registration.