Portugal — Overview

Portugal is a member of the European Union and a strategic destination for company formation and ready-made shelf company acquisition. With a population of 10.3 million and ranking as EU member, growing tech hub, Portugal offers a compelling business environment for both local and international entrepreneurs.

Key advantages of establishing a business in Portugal include: NHR tax regime (Non-Habitual Resident, now modified), “Empresa na Hora” same-day incorporation, growing Lisbon tech scene, gateway to Portuguese-speaking markets (Brazil, Angola, Mozambique).

Key Business Facts

Feature Details
Capital Lisbon
Currency EUR (Euro)
Corporate Tax Rate 21% (17% for SMEs in inland areas)
VAT Rate 23%
Company Types Lda. (LLC), S.A. (JSC), Unipessoal Lda. (single-member LLC), Sucursal (Branch)
Minimum Capital 1 EUR for Lda. (since 2011)
Formation Time 1-2 business days (Empresa na Hora)
Major Banks CGD, Millennium BCP, BPI (CaixaBank), Novo Banco, Santander Totta

Our Services in Portugal

ShelfCompanies24 provides comprehensive company formation and corporate services in Portugal. Whether you need a ready-made shelf company for immediate business operations, a newly formed entity tailored to your specific requirements, or assistance with opening corporate bank accounts — our team of experienced specialists is here to help.

Why Choose Portugal for Your Business?

Portugal stands out among business jurisdictions for several important reasons. The corporate tax rate of 21% (17% for SMEs in inland areas) is competitive within the region, and the available company types (Lda. (LLC), S.A. (JSC), Unipessoal Lda. (single-member LLC), Sucursal (Branch)) provide flexibility for various business structures and investment strategies.

Company formation in Portugal typically takes 1-2 business days (Empresa na Hora), with minimum capital requirements of 1 EUR for Lda. (since 2011). The country’s banking sector includes major institutions such as CGD, Millennium BCP, BPI (CaixaBank), Novo Banco, Santander Totta, ensuring reliable access to financial services for your business operations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of companies can I form in Portugal?

In Portugal you can form the following company types: Lda. (LLC), S.A. (JSC), Unipessoal Lda. (single-member LLC), Sucursal (Branch). The most popular structure for foreign investors is the limited liability company equivalent.

What is the corporate tax rate in Portugal?

The corporate tax rate in Portugal is 21% (17% for SMEs in inland areas). The standard VAT rate is 23%.

How long does company formation take in Portugal?

Company formation in Portugal typically takes 1-2 business days (Empresa na Hora), including registration with all relevant authorities.

What is the minimum capital required for a company in Portugal?

The minimum share capital required in Portugal is 1 EUR for Lda. (since 2011).