📌 Key facts
- Minimum capital: €1 (Law 18/2022).
- Timeline: 15–30 days in person; ~5 business days online.
- Total cost: €600–€1,200 with advisor.
The questions we hear most about creating a Sociedad Limitada, answered directly.
What is the minimum capital to create an SL?
€1, since Law 18/2022 (Crea y Crece). But if capital is below €3,000, you must allocate at least 20% of annual profit to the legal reserve until capital plus reserve reach €3,000, and on liquidation shareholders are liable for the shortfall. For image and simplicity, many SLs still incorporate with €3,000.
How long does it take to create an SL?
15 to 30 days through the traditional in-person route. Online (CIRCE/PAE network), about 5 business days.
What is the total cost?
€600 to €1,200 for a standard incorporation with an advisor (notary €150-300, Registry €150-300, BORME €60-100, name certificate ~€17, plus fees). Doing it yourself, official fees run about €400-500, plus whatever capital you contribute.
Can I be self-employed and own an SL at the same time?
Yes. In fact, the director of an SL is usually registered as a self-employed company director (autónomo societario) with Social Security. The two figures are compatible.
How many shareholders does an SL need?
Just one: that is a Single-Shareholder Limited Company (SLU), and that status must be recorded in the Mercantile Registry. With several shareholders, signing a shareholders’ agreement is advisable.
What taxes does an SL pay?
Mainly Corporate Income Tax (25% standard; 15% in the first two profitable years for newly created companies), VAT (21% standard, filed quarterly) and IRPF withholdings on payroll and professional invoices.
Does the SL protect my personal assets?
Yes — that is its great advantage: shareholder liability is limited to the capital contributed. Note: if you sign personal guarantees (banks usually ask for them), that protection does not cover the guaranteed amount.
Do I need an advisor (gestor)?
Not legally required, but highly recommended: official bookkeeping, quarterly taxes, filing accounts and corporate obligations leave little room for error. A botched setup costs more than the advisor.
Can I create the SL online without visiting a notary?
The online route (CIRCE/PAE) speeds things up considerably, but signing the deed before a notary is still required (with fewer trips and lower cost if the reduced-fee requirements are met).
What happens if the SL has no activity?
An inactive company still has obligations: filing annual accounts, tax returns (even nil ones) and advisory costs. Keeping a “dormant” SL costs money every year; if you are not going to use it, consider dissolving it.
Informational content updated October 2026. This is not legal or tax advice.
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