Set up a company in Spain
Enter the Spanish market without legal headaches or costly missteps
When international businesses decide to set up a company in Spain, they quickly face a maze of legal requirements, tax obligations, bureaucratic procedures, and labour laws that can slow them down—or stop them completely.
That’s where GCO comes in.
We help international companies establish their presence in Spain—whether through a branch, a subsidiary, or a brand-new entity. Swiftly, legally, and efficiently.
We offer full-spectrum support: from choosing the most suitable legal structure to handling registrations, tax setup, and local compliance.
With GCO, you get:
- Fast-track company formation tailored to your business goals
- Expert advice on the best legal structure (S.L., S.A., branch or rep office)
- Complete administrative and fiscal compliance from day one
- A dedicated advisor fluent in your language and the Spanish system
Set Up a Company in Spain Without These Mistakes
What happens if you try to set up without expert help?
- Afraid to choose a legal form that’ll end up costing you more in taxes than it should?
- Worried you’ll miss a filing deadline and get hit with fines or business delays?
- Uncertain how Spanish labour laws work—or if they even apply differently across regions?
- Stressed about making costly mistakes that’ll slow down your launch or damage your reputation?
These are the exact concerns that trip up international businesses trying to enter the Spanish market without proper support.
Because navigating this process alone—or with a provider unfamiliar with the local terrain—is risky.
seasoned international advisory
Avoid costly setbacks: Choose the right legal structure from day one
Setting up in Spain starts with strategic decisions. One wrong move can lead to higher taxes, reduced flexibility, or legal issues. We help you get it right:
Company incorporation
Whether you’re opening a subsidiary, branch, or representative office, we manage every step—from drafting bylaws to full registration with the Mercantile Registry and Tax Office.
- Subsidiary: Full independence and tax optimisation
- Branch: Operate directly under your parent entity
- Rep Office: Test the market with minimal commitment
We advise you on the most efficient setup based on:
- Corporate tax implications
- Investor relationships
- Operational goals
- HR and employment models
Set up a company in Spain
Skip bureaucratic delays: We handle the "paperwork" for you
Opening a business in Spain means dealing with banks, notaries, and tax authorities—each with their own paperwork, processes, and waiting times. For international companies unfamiliar with the system, this often leads to frustrating delays, missed appointments, or incomplete submissions.
At GCO, we handle it all for you—accurately, efficiently, and in your language.
Tax ID (NIF) & official business address
Before you can legally operate, you need a Spanish tax identification number (NIF or CIF) and a registered business address.
We take care of the application process with the Spanish Tax Agency and assist you through registering your official business address—so you meet all fiscal and legal obligations.
Bank account opening & notary support
Opening a business bank account in Spain as a foreign company can be complex due to due diligence, identity verification, and residency requirements.
We coordinate with reliable Spanish banks, help you prepare the required documentation, and book your notary appointments so your company can be incorporated without administrative friction.
Setting up your company in Spain
Stay compliant and avoid penalties: Labour and Social Security setup in Spain
Once your company is incorporated, the next challenge is ensuring full compliance with Spain’s strict labour laws and social security obligations. Many foreign businesses unknowingly make mistakes here—leading to employee disputes, fines, or operational delays.
At GCO, we make sure your company is correctly registered, and your team is fully protected.
Social Security Registration
We register your company and its directors or employees with the Spanish Social Security system, ensuring you’re recognised as a legal employer and authorised to pay wages in Spain.
Labour compliance
From contract templates to initial declarations, we provide all the tools and paperwork you need to hire locally or relocate staff, in full compliance with Spanish labour laws. Our team helps set up payroll, contributions, and tax withholding systems, avoiding common missteps that lead to penalties.
Why partner with GCO?
Clarity, compliance, and continuity your business needs to set up a company in Spain
Fully bilingual support. We work fluently in English and Spanish, bridging cultural and legal gaps so nothing gets lost in translation.
Trusted by international companies. We’ve guided hundreds of firms through successful market entry and ongoing operations in Spain. Our experience spans sectors and continents.
Multidisciplinary team. Our advisors are qualified economists, tax experts, labour specialists, and lawyers—ready to act as your in-house team in Spain.
Strategic vision, local knowledge. We combine long-term business strategy with deep understanding of the Spanish regulatory environment. So you avoid local tax pitfalls and legal risks.
European network. Through the IUSFUL legal network, we support your growth across Europe with consistency and reliability.
Smart tech, seamless control. We leverage digital tools to streamline communication, document management, and compliance monitoring—giving you full visibility and control no matter where you’re based.
Setting up your company in Spain
Still thinking of managing it internally? Here's what you should know
Many international companies wonder if they can handle the process on their own—or rely on their legal or financial teams back home.
But Spain’s regulatory, tax, and labour systems are unique, regionally nuanced, and constantly evolving. What works elsewhere doesn’t always apply here.
Without local insight and daily experience with Spanish authorities, you risk:
- Misinterpreting key legal or tax requirements
- Missing deadlines or documentation specifics
- Creating a structure that’s inefficient or non-compliant
- Facing unexpected fines, delays, or reputational risk
At GCO, we partner with your internal team—not replace them.
We act as your trusted local ally, making sure your setup is compliant, efficient, and future-proof—without wasting time or stretching your internal resources thin.
Process and Methodology
A Clear Path to Excellence for your Company
Our customer-centric process is tailored to your specific needs. From initial analysis to strategy implementation, we are with you every step of the way.
- Initial Situation Analysis
- Development of Customized Strategies
- Solutions Implementation
- Continuous Monitoring and Adjustment
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers for all your doubts
Do I need a Spanish partner or director?
No. A foreign national can be the sole administrator of a company set up in Spain. However, certain processes may require a local fiscal representative.
How long does it take to set up a company in Spain?
The timeline varies depending on several factors but typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months.
What are the main legal requirements to establish a company in Spain?
Key requirements to set up a company in Spain include choosing a business structure, obtaining a tax identification number, registering with the Trade Registry, and fulfilling tax obligations.
Do I need to travel to Spain to set up the company?
While physical presence is not mandatory, certain steps may require representation or documentation to set up a company in Spain.
*Check our remote company formation guide.
What are the ongoing compliance obligations for companies in Spain?
After you have set up a company in Spain, ongoing compliance is essential to maintain good standing. This includes regular tax filings, adherence to accounting requirements, and fulfilling other legal obligations.
Additionally, we provide continuity in managing your company’s day-to-day operations, ensuring that all aspects are well-organized and kept up-to-date
Beyond the Set up a company in spain
Worried about what comes after setup? We’ve got you covered
Setting up a company in Spain is just the beginning. Once you’re operational, staying compliant and efficient becomes even more important—especially in a new regulatory environment.
That’s why GCO offers a full suite of ongoing advisory services to support your growth and day-to-day operations in Spain.
Tax & fiscal advisory. We handle everything from VAT returns and corporate tax filings to audits and cross-border structuring—so you never miss a deadline or overpay.
Labour & HR advisory. From drafting employment contracts to payroll processing, employee onboarding, and labour inspections, we help you manage your team with total compliance and peace of mind.
Accounting & financial reporting. We manage your books, prepare year-end closures, and offer tailored financial advice to improve performance and decision-making.
Legal & mercantile advisory. Need to adjust your structure, sign new agreements, or expand? We help with corporate governance, commercial contracts, and legal updates as your business evolves.
Our tax team
Meet Our Tax Experts
Experience and knowledge at your service for optimal tax management.
Managing Partner
Tax Department Senior Manager
Find out how our consulting services can help you
Optimize your Business Strategy
