Requirements for Opening a Business Premises in Spain

When a company or self-employed individual decides to open a business premises, they may encounter various difficulties, such as the licenses needed to operate a business. The wide variety of municipal, regional, and state regulations does not make this task easier. For this reason, it is very common to decide to postpone the opening of the premises or to start working without the necessary authorizations, hoping that they will eventually be granted by the competent authority.

Next, we will analyze some of the licenses required to open a premises.

Opening License for Premises

This document certifies that a premises, warehouse, or office meets the necessary and appropriate conditions to carry out the activity for which it is intended, without causing inconvenience to third parties.

This license is granted by the City Council of the municipality where the premises is located, and the requirements vary from one place to another. The different conditions refer to technical, hygienic, urban, and environmental aspects. In addition, the regulations separate the activities that the premises will host into two categories: innocuous or unclassified activities and harmful or classified activities.

Unclassified Activities

These are activities that do not cause inconvenience to third parties or harm the environment. They are not considered harmful or dangerous to people or the environment; therefore, the application for the opening license will be simpler.

Classified Activities

These activities are those that may be annoying, unhealthy, or dangerous for both people and the environment. In this case, the application for the license, in addition to being more expensive, will involve a longer procedure.

Similarly, there are activities for which a license is not required, such as professional, artisanal, or artistic activities carried out in one’s own home, as long as they do not cause inconvenience to neighbors and there is no direct sale to the public on the premises.

Reports and Projects

To apply for the license, a technical report prepared by a professional, such as an architect, surveyor, or engineer, is required. The report must include the professional’s college stamp. The project should contain information about the establishment and the activity that will take place in it, such as plans, layout, renovations, installations, etc.

However, premises of less than 300 square meters can submit a responsible declaration to the City Council, instead of the opening license. In this declaration, the owner states that they comply with the urban and sectoral requirements specified by the regulations.

Construction License

If the premises needs to be adapted to operate the business, a construction license must be requested. A municipal technician will verify the works indicated in the responsible declaration and will check if they are suitable for the type of activity. Additionally, they will verify the accuracy of the amounts declared based on the work performed.

Registration in Records

Depending on the activity carried out, the entrepreneur must register in the corresponding registry.

Notification of Workplace Opening

In addition, in cases where the entrepreneur hires employees, they must notify the opening of the workplace, so that the Administration can monitor the safety and health conditions of the workers.

One of the most important things to consider when opening a business and marketing products or services is the brand. Finding the name of the business, the logo that represents it, the colors, etc. is not a simple task, so registering them should be a priority for the company.

Trademark Registration

Requirements for Opening a Business in Spain

If you are characterized by being a person with an entrepreneurial spirit, it is very likely that one of your biggest goals or dreams is to open your own business. Do you know what the necessary requirements are to do so in Spain?

In this article, we will analyze the main requirements and steps to take to open a business in Spain. Keep reading and find out more!

Obtaining the Tax Identification Number (NIF)

The first step to open a business in Spain is to obtain the Tax Identification Number (NIF), which is the necessary tax identifier to operate legally. To obtain it, you must submit the application to the Tax Agency.

If you are a foreigner, you will need the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) before applying for the NIF. It is important to have all the necessary documents and comply with the requirements established by the Tax Agency.

Choosing the Legal Form and Constitution of the Company

The next step is to choose the legal form under which your business will operate. In Spain, there are several options, such as self-employed, limited company (SL), or public limited company (SA), among others. Each legal form has its own characteristics and legal requirements.

Once you have chosen the legal form, you will need to proceed with the constitution of the company. This involves drafting and signing the social statutes, opening a bank account in the name of the company, and registering it in the corresponding Mercantile Registry.

Obtaining the Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on the type of business you want to undertake, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits. Some commercial activities require specific authorizations, such as those related to food, health, education, transportation, among others.

Social Security and Hiring Employees

If you intend to hire employees, you must take into account the obligations related to Social Security. As an employer, you will be subject to contributions and contributions to Social Security.

Some Additional Procedures

In addition to the requirements mentioned above, you may need to comply with other additional procedures and requirements depending on your sector or geographical location. For example, obtaining civil liability insurance, registering in specific registers, or complying with environmental regulations.

Therefore, it is essential to research and obtain updated information on the specific procedures and requirements that apply to your business.