Spain

Why Spain

• Bridge to Latin AmericaA shared language and long business ties make Spain a common base for companies that work on both sides of the Atlantic.
• Tax benefits for startupsCertified startups pay 15% corporate tax for four profitable years, and their investors get a larger tax deduction.
• Programs for foreign foundersICEX runs soft landing programs for foreign startups, including one designed for Latin American founders.

Source: ICEX-Invest in Spain · La Moncloa, startup certification

Priority sectors

Source: ICEX-Invest in Spain

How companies enter

1. Step 1Soft landingA first trip or an ICEX soft landing program, to test demand and meet partners in Madrid or Barcelona.
2. Step 2PilotA paid pilot with a Spanish client or partner, often still billed from home.
3. Step 3Local companyA Sociedad Limitada (SL), set up online through CIRCE and registered at the Mercantile Registry, then ENISA certification to access the startup tax rate.

Founders from outside the EU can apply for the residence authorisation for entrepreneurs, processed by the Large Companies Unit (UGE) after a favourable report from ENISA, with no minimum investment required.

Source: UGE, entrepreneurs

Costs to plan for

• Company setup: notary, Mercantile Registry and tax ID (NIF)
• Accounting, VAT and corporate tax filings
• Employer social security contributions on salaries
• Office or coworking space and housing, highest in Madrid and Barcelona

Source: administracion.gob.es, setting up a company · Agencia Tributaria, Startups Law

Who can help