Portugal lets anyone, resident or not, set up a company. For a foreign founder the process is quick, as long as the steps are done in the right order.
1. Choose the company form
Most founders choose a private limited company (Lda.), with two or more shareholders, or a single-member company (Unipessoal Lda.), with one shareholder. In both, each quota is worth at least €1.
2. Get a NIF for every shareholder
Every shareholder needs a Portuguese tax number. A non-resident can get one through a representative, and should check whether they must appoint a tax representative or can sign up for electronic notifications instead.
3. Form the company
- Empresa na Hora: at a registry desk, with all shareholders present. Registry fee: €360. You leave with the articles of association, the permanent certificate code, the company card code and the company's Social Security number.
- Online: no travel, using a Portuguese Citizen Card, the Digital Mobile Key (also available linked to a passport) or eIDAS. €220 with pre-approved articles (€440 urgent) or €360 with bespoke articles (€720 urgent). Registration is done in 5 days with pre-approved articles, or 10 with bespoke ones, if nothing is missing.
4. The first weeks
- Deposit the share capital within 5 working days (or deliver it to the company by the end of the first financial year)
- File the beneficial owner declaration in the RCBE within 30 days
- Start-of-activity declaration by the certified accountant within 15 days, if not done at formation
- VAT set-up and Social Security registration
5. Your company and the D2 visa
A Portuguese company is often the base of a D2 entrepreneur visa application. The consulate assesses the investment and your means of subsistence (€920 a month in 2026 for the first adult). Afterwards, AIMA asks for proof that the activity has started. Planning both together saves time.
Want to know how this applies to you?
Ask for a complimentary assessment. An advisor will call you within 24 hours.
Complimentary assessment