Do you want to set up a business in Portugal but don’t know where to start? Serro & Andrade takes care of the whole process — from choosing the legal structure to getting your business up and running — and supports you afterwards with day-to-day tax and accounting matters. We speak Portuguese, Spanish, English and French, so the process is straightforward even if you’re not in Portugal.
What we do for you
- Advice on the most appropriate legal form (limited company, sole trader, branch or self-employment).
- Company incorporation and commercial registration.
- Obtaining a Tax Identification Number (NIF) and a Social Security Number (NISS) and, where necessary, acting as a tax representative for non-residents.
- Initial tax framework for corporation tax, personal income tax and VAT.
- Registration of a business with the tax authorities and enrolment with Social Security.
- Support with bank accounts, electronic invoicing and initial obligations.
Most common legal forms
In Portugal, most projects begin as limited company (Lda.), sole proprietorship or as self-employed person. The choice depends on the number of partners, the level of liability required and tax considerations. We’ll help you decide based on your specific circumstances, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.
How long does it take?
Provided the documentation is in order, a company can be incorporated within a few days. The tax identification number (NIF), the social security number (NISS) and the registration of the business are all processed simultaneously, so that the company can start invoicing as soon as possible.
And after the constitution?
Setting up your business is just the first step. We take care of your bookkeeping, ensure you meet your tax obligations, process your payroll and provide you with a clear overview of your accounts — a single partner for everything.
Frequently asked questions
Can I set up a company without being in Portugal?
In many cases, yes. We handle registration and tax representation remotely; we will assess your specific case.
Do I need a minimum share capital?
A private limited company can be incorporated with a low share capital. We explain the implications of each option.
What taxes will I have to pay?
It depends on the legal form and the business activity. We determine the most advantageous tax regime for corporation tax, personal income tax and VAT, and analyse schemes such as the IFICI.
Get started today
Take the first step with those who know the terrain. Contact Serro & Andrade and receive a proposal tailored to your project.
