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How to Open a Business in Sabadell (2026)

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Cost

Free

Tax registration and Social Security: free. Business license municipal fee varies according to the municipality and type of activity (from €100 to several thousand).

Time at office

2-4 hours (basic procedures)

Estimated time

1-4 weeks for harmless activities; months for environmentally impactful activities

Quick summary

Guide for opening a business or commercial establishment in Sabadell. Business license, tax registration, and municipal procedures. Updated step-by-step guide.

Required documents

  • Valid DNI or NIE

    For the owner or founders.

  • Tax Registration (Form 036 or 037)

    Notification of commencement of activity with AEAT.

  • ?

    RET A Registration (if self-employed) Optional

    Registration in the Self-Employed Special Social Security Regime.

    ⚠️ For physical individuals

  • Business License or Declaration of Responsibility

    Municipal authorization to conduct business at the premises.

  • Lease Agreement or Property Deed

    Proof of occupancy of the premises where the activity is conducted.

0 €
Tax registration and Social Security: free. Business license municipal fee varies according to the municipality and type of activity (from €100 to several thousand). €0.00
€0.00
€0.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Choose Legal Form and Economic Activity Code

    Go to official site

    Decide between self-employment (individual) or a company (LLC, SA). The IAE (Economic Activities Tax) code determines specific tax requirements for your business.

    !

    Expert tip

    "For starters, the simplest and most economical option is self-employment. An LLC offers more asset protection but costs more to manage."

  • 2

    Tax Registration — Forms 036 or 037

    Go to official site

    Notify AEAT of your business commencement using Form 036 (full) or 037 (simplified for low-income self-employed). You can do this online via the AEAT website.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Tax registration should be completed before or on the day of business commencement. It is free."

  • 3

    RET A Registration (if self-employed)

    Go to official site

    Register in the RET A system within 30 days after tax registration through the Social Security Electronic Portal.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The minimum self-employed contribution rate in 2026 starts at €225/month for low-income earners (net income system). If you estimate low earnings, report real low-income and pay less."

  • 4

    Apply for Business License from City Hall

    Submit your business license application or declaration of responsibility to the City Hall of Sabadell. Harmless activities (offices, minor retail) can usually be conducted with a declaration of responsibility immediately.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Check first with the city hall if your activity requires prior licensing or is sufficient with a declaration — this may save you weeks of waiting."

Offices and service points - Sabadell

City Hall of Sabadell — Urbanism / Licenses Department

Check exact address on the City Hall of Sabadell website

Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 14:00 (appointment required in many city halls)

Frequently asked questions

What is CIRCE and what does it do?
CIRCE (Center for Information and Network of Enterprise Creation) is the government system for telematic company creation processes. It allows you to complete all necessary procedures for establishing a new Limited Liability Company in one place, simultaneously.
Do I need an opening permit to start my business?
It depends on your activity type. Harmless activities (offices, retail shops) usually only require a declaration of responsibility and prior notification, allowing you to begin operations immediately. High-impact activities (bars, workshops, nightclubs) may require a pre-opening license which can take months.
How much does it cost to become self-employed?
Tax registration and Social Security are free. The minimum monthly contribution for self-employment in 2026 starts at €225 for low-income earners, rising up to €500 for high-income earners. New self-employed individuals qualify for a reduced rate during their first year.

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.