What are the essential documents to start a business in Portugal?

To start a business in Portugal, the mandatory documents you'll need are:

• Personal identification document: This can be a passport, citizen card (EU citizens). Each shareholder or director must provide their respective identification document.
• Portuguese fiscal number proof (NIF): Each shareholder and director must provide proof of their Portuguese fiscal number (NIF). Rauva can also assist in obtaining this for you.
• Proof of current address: A utility bill from the last 3 months works fine! Each shareholder and director should provide proof.
• A Portuguese address for your company. Don’t worry if you don't have one, we can get you a virtual address.
• If you live outside of the European Union, you'll need a tax representative.

A tax representative in Portugal is a mandatory requirement for non-EU residents who have financial ties or business activities in the country. This representative, who must be resident in Portugal, acts as a liaison between the non-resident individual or business and the Portuguese tax authority. Their role includes ensuring compliance with Portuguese tax laws, handling communications, and managing tax obligations like returns and payments. Non-EU residents starting a business or applying for a NIF (Portuguese tax identification number) typically need a fiscal representative. The cost for such services can vary, but they are crucial for maintaining legal and fiscal compliance. Rauva can assist in obtaining a tax representative, simplifying this aspect for non-EU clients starting a business in Portugal