Paperwork and documents

Creating an SL requires a series of official documents. Knowing them upfront saves extra trips to the notary and delays at the Registry. This is the complete list.

1. Company name certificate

Issued by the Central Mercantile Registry, it certifies that no other company uses your chosen name. You can propose up to five names in order of preference. Once granted, the name is reserved for six months. Available in person or online (24-48 hours). Approximate cost: €17.

2. Articles of association

The document governing the company’s internal life: name, corporate purpose, registered office, share capital and how it is divided (shares), management system, term of directors, profit distribution and grounds for dissolution. There are standard articles approved by the Ministry of Justice (fast and cheap — they even reduce notary fees) and custom articles for companies with several shareholders or special agreements.

3. Bank certificate of capital deposit

The bank where the share capital is deposited issues a certificate proving the deposit in the name of the company being formed. Essential for signing before the notary. Remember: since the Crea y Crece law the minimum is €1, although capital below €3,000 triggers additional legal reserve obligations.

4. Public deed of incorporation

Signed by the shareholders before a notary, contributing the above documents plus their IDs. It includes the articles and the declaration of intent to form the company. It is the founding document: no deed, no company.

5. Provisional NIF (form 036)

With the deed, you request a provisional NIF from the Tax Agency via form 036. It lets the company start operating and invoicing while registry inscription is completed. Incorporation is exempt from Transfer Tax under Corporate Transactions.

6. Inscription in the Mercantile Registry

Within one month of the deed, file with the Mercantile Registry of the province of the registered office: the deed, proof of the (exempt) ITP/AJD settlement and the registration application. Registration gives the company full legal personality.

7. Definitive NIF and census registration

Back to the Tax Agency with form 036, the deed and the registry certificate to obtain the definitive NIF and complete census registration (alta censal). After that: Social Security registration, activity licences if applicable — and you are in business.

Practical tip

Keep copies of everything: name certificate, bank certificate, deed, NIF and registry receipts. You will need them to open accounts, sign contracts and prove the company’s existence during its first months.

Informational content updated October 2026.