Legal entity types in Portugal compared
Our team is experienced in helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of Portugal’s business regulations. We provide services to help you select the best business structure for your company while meeting all legal obligations. Let’s discuss the different business structures in Portugal and how we can support you in establishing your business in this thriving European country.
Legal entities in Portugal
Let’s take a look at the most popular legal structures that can be formed in Portugal:
| Entity | Local name | Min. share capital | Management | Incorporation time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Limited Liability Company | Sociedade por Quotas Limitada | € 5000 | Directors | 8 days |
| Public Limited Liability Company | Sociedade Anónima | € 50000 | Board of directors | 12 days |
| Branch Office | – | – | Branch manager | 15 days |
| Holding Company | – | – | Board of directors | 10 days |
Private Limited Liability Company (Sociedade por Quotas Limitada)
The Private Limited Liability Company is a popular option for businesses in Portugal, providing limited liability protection to its owners. Due to its adaptable structure and simple formation process, it is a convenient choice for entrepreneurs. We are available to assist you in establishing your Private Limited Liability Company in Portugal.
Public Limited Liability Company (Sociedade Anónima)
The Public Limited Liability Company is frequently selected by larger businesses in Portugal. Due to its capacity to raise funds through public offerings and its flexibility in share transfers, it provides notable benefits. We are available to help you with the registration procedure for your Public Limited Liability Company in Portugal.
Branch Office
A branch office functions as an extension of the parent company, enabling it to operate in a different location while maintaining its original legal identity. Opting to establish a branch office in Portugal can be beneficial for businesses seeking to grow their presence in the country without forming a separate legal entity. By operating as a branch, the parent company can utilize its existing brand reputation and resources to access new markets. We provide extensive assistance in navigating the complexities of establishing and overseeing a branch office in Portugal, guaranteeing a seamless and legally compliant entry into the market.
Holding Company
A holding company is frequently used to control other companies by owning their shares. In Portugal, forming a holding company can provide advantages like centralized management, risk spread, and tax benefits. By incorporating your business as a holding company, you can effectively oversee several subsidiaries, simplify decision-making, and maximize tax planning. Our experienced team offers personalized support to assist you in setting up and running a holding company in Portugal, ensuring adherence to regulations and maximizing your corporate structure.
Requirements for starting the business
Let’s examine the necessary prerequisites for launching a business in Portugal and how our committed team supports you throughout the entire process.
Minimum share capital
Based on the business structure selected, Portugal enforces specific share capital prerequisites. Regardless of the type of company, our experts help calculate the necessary minimum share capital for starting your business. We collaborate closely with you to guarantee adherence to regulations and maximize your financial assets.
Directors and shareholders
Every company in Portugal must have directors and shareholders appointed. Our experts provide valuable guidance in selecting appropriate directors to ensure that the company benefits from their expertise and aligns with your future goals.
Legal duties and obedience
It is important to stay up to date on obligations such as registration, reporting, and tax requirements. Our legal team manages these administrative tasks to ensure full compliance, freeing you up to focus on your main business operations.
Book a consultation
The team makes an effort to comprehend your objectives, field, and obstacles in order to offer tailored assistance during the process of forming a business. With our expertise and commitment to excellent service, we ensure a smooth and stress-free path to creating a successful company in Portugal. Don’t let the challenges of starting a business in Portugal hold you back. Trust in us to assist your firm in reaching its full potential. Take the first step towards success by contacting us now. Complete and send the inquiry form below, and our experts will reach out to you.