Foreigners can open a company in Portugal without restrictions. EU citizens need only a NIF and a Portuguese bank account. Non-EU citizens also need a valid residence permit or visa (D2 Entrepreneur Visa or Golden Visa). Company registration takes 1–5 business days and costs from €360.

Can Foreigners Open a Company in Portugal?

Yes. Portugal imposes no nationality restrictions on company ownership. Requirements differ slightly by origin:

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: NIF, Portuguese bank account, and company registration. No visa required.
• Non-EU citizens already residing in Portugal: Same as EU citizens, plus valid residence permit.
• Non-EU citizens based abroad: Must apply for a D2 Entrepreneur Visa or Portugal Golden Visa to live and work in Portugal.

Company Types for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Lda. (Sociedade por Quotas) — Private Limited Company

The most common structure for SMEs. Minimum capital: €1 (€1,000+ recommended). Minimum 2 shareholders. Liability limited to share capital. Subject to IRC: 16% on first €50,000 profit, 21% above.

Unipessoal por Quotas — Single-Member LLC

Identical to Lda. but with a single owner. Ideal for solo entrepreneurs, freelancers, and consultants wanting liability protection. Most common choice for expats setting up in Portugal.

SA (Sociedade Anónima) — Public Limited Company

For larger businesses or those planning to raise external investment. Minimum capital: €50,000. Requires at least 5 shareholders. More complex governance.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1 — Get your NIF

All shareholders and directors need a Portuguese NIF before registering the company. Non-residents can obtain a NIF remotely by power of attorney. Full guide to getting a NIF →

Step 2 — Choose a company name

Check availability at the RNPC. Choose a pre-approved name (free, immediate) or submit your own (€75, 5-day process).

Step 3 — Register the company

Online via Empresa Online (2–5 days, ~€255), in-person at Empresa na Hora (same day, €360–460), or via notary (1–3 weeks, €575–875). All methods available to foreigners with a valid NIF.

Step 4 — Open a business bank account

Required to deposit share capital and manage company finances. Major banks: Millennium BCP, Santander, Caixa Geral de Depósitos. Some fintech options (Revolut Business, Wise Business) accept Portuguese companies with foreign directors.

Step 5 — Register for activity at Finanças

Your certified accountant submits the activity start declaration within 15 days. Defines your CAE activity code, VAT regime, and registered office.

Step 6 — Social Security registration

Register the company as an employer and the managing director as a contributor. Deadline: 10 days after activity start.

Taxes for Foreign-Owned Companies in Portugal

• IRC (Corporate Income Tax): 16% on first €50,000 profit, 21% above (SMEs)
• VAT (IVA): 23% standard rate. Exempt if annual turnover below €14,500
• Dividends to non-residents: 25% withholding tax (reduced by tax treaty)
• IFICI regime: New residents may qualify for 20% flat income tax rate
• SIFIDE II: 32.5% tax credit on R&D expenses for tech companies

Costs Overview

• NIF obtention (by power of attorney): €150–300
• Company registration (Empresa na Hora): €360–460
• Business bank account: free to €20/month
• Certified accountant (mandatory): from €150/month at HVR
• Total setup cost: approximately €700–1,200 first month

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a company in Portugal without living there?

Yes. You can register a company remotely with a NIF obtained by power of attorney, a bank account, and a certified accountant. No physical presence required for registration.

Do I need a visa to open a company in Portugal?

EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens need the D2 Entrepreneur Visa or Golden Visa to live and work in Portugal. You can register the company first, then apply for the visa.

How long does it take to open a company in Portugal?

Company registration: 1 business day (Empresa na Hora) to 5 days (online). Total including bank account: 2–4 weeks.

Is a certified accountant mandatory in Portugal?

Yes. All Portuguese companies (Lda., SA, Unipessoal) are legally required to have a Certified Accountant registered with the OCC, even for companies with no activity.

What is the minimum capital to open a company in Portugal?

For a Lda. or Unipessoal: legal minimum €1 (recommend €1,000–5,000). For an SA: €50,000.

Can HVR handle the full company setup for me?

Yes. HVR handles NIF obtention by power of attorney, company registration support, Finanças activity registration, and ongoing accounting. Contact us for a full-service quote.