Services
Set Up a Representative Office in Spain
Marfour helps foreign companies enter the Spanish market by setting up a representative office, a practical first step for international growth and future relocation.
This is an ideal option to establish a presence in Spain while minimizing investment and risk.
About the service
What is the Set Up a Representative Office in Spain
A representative office is a legal structure that allows a foreign company to establish a non-commercial presence in Spain. It does not require full company registration, making it a low-risk way to begin exploring opportunities in the Spanish market.
This type of structure is intended for activities that support the parent company without generating direct profit. It acts as a bridge between your company abroad and the Spanish market.
Few mobility firms offer this opportunity to their clients, but at Marfour, we see it as a strategic way to expand and access the Spanish market without a significant investment.
Typical activities include representing the company in meetings, conducting market research, coordinating promotional efforts, and monitoring local business opportunities.
However, a representative office cannot operate as a full business. It cannot issue invoices, sell goods or services, hire employees in Spain (outside of the appointed representative), or engage in profit-generating activities.
Enjoy all the Benefits it has to offer
The benefits of Set Up a Representative Office in Spain
Simple legal structure with fewer formalities
Lower initial investment with no capital requirement
Legal pathway to residence and work authorization
Ability to explore the Spanish market before full expansion
Are you eligible?
Requirements to apply for a Set Up a Representative Office in Spain
Legal Structure and Limitations
The office must operate strictly as a non-commercial entity and cannot generate income or carry out business activities.
Appointment of a Company Representative
A representative must be designated to act on behalf of the parent company in Spain.
ICT Residence and Work Authorization
The appointed representative may apply for a residence and work permit under the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) scheme.
Social Security Registration Options
The representative may either register under the Spanish Social Security system or remain under their home country’s system through an A1 certificate, if applicable.
Documentation From the Parent Company
This includes the company incorporation certificate, registry extract, appointment letter, and a description of the business activity and purpose of the office.
Documentation From the Representative
Required documents include an employment contract, job description, proof of salary, criminal record certificate, passport, and health insurance.
All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and properly legalized.
How can Marfour help you?
Expanding your business into Spain requires a clear legal strategy and proper coordination between corporate and immigration processes.
At Marfour International Law Firm, we provide tailored support to ensure your representative office is established correctly and efficiently.
Initial Business Assessment
We evaluate your company structure, expansion goals, and eligibility to determine the best approach for entering the Spanish market.
Representative Office Setup
We guide you through the legal setup of your representative office in compliance with Spanish regulations.
Intra-Company Transfer Permit Application
We prepare and submit your residence and work authorization under the Intra-Company Transfer scheme.
Document Preparation and Legalization
We manage the review, translation, and certification of all required documents.
Compliance and Legal Guidance
We ensure your representative office operates within legal limitations and avoids potential risks.
Ongoing Advisory Support
We provide continuous guidance as you establish your presence and plan your expansion in Spain.
Work and Residency Permit
We prepare and submit your residence and work authorization, including applications under the Intra-Company Transfer scheme where applicable.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Set Up a Representative Office in Spain
What is a representative office in Spain?
It is a non-commercial structure that allows a foreign company to establish a presence in Spain without full company registration.
Can a representative office generate income?
No, it cannot carry out profit-generating activities.
Can I sell products or services through a representative office?
No, commercial activities are not permitted under this structure.
Can a representative office hire employees in Spain?
No, except for the appointed company representative.
Is a representative office registered in the Commercial Registry?
No, it is not registered as a commercial entity.
Can I obtain residency through a representative office?
Yes, the appointed representative may apply for a residence and work permit under the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) scheme.
What is the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) permit in Spain?
It is a residence and work authorization for employees transferred from a foreign company to Spain.
What documents are required to set up a representative office?
Documents are required from both the parent company and the appointed representative, including legal, employment, and identification documents.
Do documents need to be translated into Spanish for a representative office?
Yes, all non-Spanish documents must be translated into Spanish and legally certified.
Is a representative office in Spain a good first step for business expansion?
Yes, it allows companies to explore the Spanish market and prepare for full business operations with reduced risk.