Open an IE in Portugal
In Portugal, a sole proprietorship (PE) can be organized in the form of Empresa Individual de Responsabilidade Limitada (EIRL), which is a limited liability for sole traders. Keep in mind that this is general information and the process of registering a sole proprietorship may vary depending on the specific requirements and provisions of Portuguese law.
A few steps you need to take to open a sole proprietorship in Portugal:
1. Choose a name: Choose a unique name for your IP that will not be repeated with companies already registered in Portugal.
2. Drafting founding documents: Draw up the incorporation documents of your sole proprietorship, including the contract of establishment (Contrato de Constituição) and other necessary documents. You may need the help of a lawyer or a business registration specialist.
3. Notarization: The incorporation documents of the sole proprietorship must be notarized.
4. National Registry Registration: Apply to register your sole proprietorship with the National Registry of Ships (Registo Nacional de Pessoas Colectivas). You will need to provide the incorporation documents, information about the owner of the IE and other necessary information.
5. Obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number: Once your sole proprietorship is registered, you will receive your Taxpayer Identification Number (Número de Identificação Fiscal), which is necessary for paying taxes and filing tax returns.
6. Social Security registration: Register your FE with the national social security service (Segurança Social) to ensure your social rights as a FE owner.
7. Accounting and taxation: You must keep records of your sole proprietorship and comply with tax obligations, such as payment of value added tax (VAT) and income tax.
8. Opening a bank account: You will need to open a bank account for your PE with a Portuguese bank. Contact the bank with the necessary documents, such as the incorporation documents of the sole proprietorship, your tax identification number and other required documents.
9. Filing tax returns: you will need to follow the Portuguese tax requirements and regularly file tax returns in accordance with your activities and tax obligations. Contact a tax advisor or accountant for details on tax reporting.
10. Licenses and permits (if applicable): Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to obtain special licenses or permits. Educate yourself about the requirements of your industry and contact the appropriate authorities to obtain the necessary permits.
11. Social security and pension contributions: As the owner of a sole proprietorship, you will also be required to pay social security and pension contributions to the national social security service (Segurança Social).
12. Compliance with rules and requirements: Make sure that you comply with all Portuguese laws, regulations and requirements related to your business and the IP. Inform yourself about the necessary standards and regulations that apply to your industry.
It is important to note that each situation may have individual characteristics and requirements. It is advisable to contact legal advisors or business registration specialists in Portugal for accurate information and advice, and to ensure that all requirements and procedures are followed when opening a sole proprietorship in Portugal.