How to open a business in Girona (2026)
Cost
Free
Variable according to municipality and type of activity. The declaration of responsibility is free in many cases. The business license can cost between 150€ and 2,000€ depending on the municipality and the activity.
Time at office
30-60 minutes (first consultation)
Estimated time
Declaration of responsibility: immediate opening. Full business license: 1-4 months.
Quick summary
Complete guide to opening a business in Girona, Catalonia. Business license, declaration of responsibility, municipal procedures and legal requirements in 2026.
Required documents
-
DNI or NIE of the owner
If a corporation, incorporation deed and CIF of the company.
-
Tax registration (Modelo 036/037)
You must be registered as self-employed or have your corporation constituted before opening.
-
Social Security registration
Registration as a self-employed individual in RETA or workers' registration if hiring employees.
-
Lease agreement or property deed of the location
Documentation that proves the right to use the location where the activity will take place.
- ?
Technical project (if the activity requires it) Optional
For activities with environmental, acoustic impact or requiring works, you need a signed project by a competent technician (architect, engineer).
⚠️ Only for classified activities or with works - ?
Urban compatibility certificate Optional
Confirms that the location can be used for the activity intended. Requested at the Girona City Hall before leasing the property.
⚠️ Recommended before signing the lease agreement
: 2026
Step by step
- 1
Check urban compatibility of the location
Go to official siteBefore renting or buying, check with Girona City Hall if the location allows the activity you want to develop. This step saves you from costly and time-consuming mistakes.
!Expert tip
"Most city halls resolve urban compatibility requests in 5-10 working days. Always request a written response."
- 2
Register with Tax and Social Security Authorities
Go to official siteIf not yet registered as self-employed, do it first. Fill out Modelo 037 at AEAT and register in RETA through Importass. This step is necessary before proceeding.
!Expert tip
"If you already have a SL or SA corporation, you only need the company's CIF and the corporation registration at AEAT."
- 3
Apply for declaration of responsibility or license with Girona City Hall
Go to official siteFor many commercial and service activities, just file a declaration of responsibility to open your business in Girona. For more impactful activities (bars, workshops, industries), you need a full business license. In Catalonia, the Canal Empresa of the Generalitat allows online application for communication of opening for most activities. Each Catalan city hall has its own competencies regarding licenses, so the procedure may vary.
!Expert tip
"Use the Oficina d'Atenció a l'Empresa / TRAMIT Barcelona portal to determine what type of application is required for your activity before visiting the city hall."
- 4
Obtain any additional sector-specific authorizations
Depending on the type of business, you may need additional permits: health (food, catering), environmental (workshops, industries), tourism (accommodations), or entertainment (venues with music).
!Expert tip
"Check the IPYME portal of the Ministry of Industry for a complete list of required authorizations based on your CNAE activity code."
Offices and service points - Girona
Girona City Hall — Licenses and Activities Office
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a business license and declaration of responsibility?
How much does a business license cost in Girona?
Can I open a business from home in Spain?
What happens if I open without a business license?
Do I need works to adapt the location?
Official sources and useful links
- Girona City Hall — Business Licenses
- Oficina d'Atenció a l'Empresa / TRAMIT Barcelona
- IPYME — Business opening procedures
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.