How to Open a Business in Terrassa (2026)
Cost
Free
Tax registration and social security: free. Business license municipal fee varies depending on 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 Terrassa. Licensing, tax registration and municipal procedures. Step-by-step updated 2026.
Required documents
-
Valid DNI or NIE
For the business owner or founding partners.
-
Tax registration (model 036 or 037)
Communication of start-up activity to AEAT.
- ?
RET registration for self-employed (if applicable) Optional
Enrollment in the Self-Employed Special Social Security Regime.
⚠️ For individual self-employed persons -
Business license or declaration of responsibility
Municipal authorization to operate the business in the premises.
-
Lease agreement or property deed
Proof of use of the premises where the business operates.
: 2026
Step by step
- 1
Choose a legal form and business category
Go to official siteDecide whether you operate as an individual self-employed (natural person) or as a company (SL, SA). The IAE (Tax on Business Activities) code determines specific tax obligations.
!Expert tip
"For beginners, the simplest and most economical option is to be self-employed. An SL offers more asset protection but requires more management."
- 2
Tax registration — model 036 or 037
Go to official siteNotify AEAT of start-up activity by submitting form 036 (complete) or 037 (simplified for self-employed with no intracommunity transactions). You can do this online through the AEAT portal.
!Expert tip
"Tax registration must be done before or on the start of business activity. It is free."
- 3
RET registration for self-employed (if applicable)
Go to official siteRegister with RETA in the Social Security Electronic Portal within 30 days after tax registration.
!Expert tip
"The minimum monthly fee for a self-employed in 2026 is €225 per month for low income (net earnings system). If you expect to earn little, declare low real income and pay less."
- 4
Apply for business license with the City Council
Submit a business license application or declaration of responsibility at Terrassa City Hall depending on your type of business. Harmless activities (offices, retail without risks) are usually processed immediately with a responsible declaration.
!Expert tip
"Check first with the City Council whether your activity requires prior licensing or can be handled with a declaration — it may save you weeks of waiting."
Offices and service points - Terrassa
Terrassa City Hall — Urbanism / Licenses Department
Consult exact address on Terrassa City Hall’s website
Frequently asked questions
What is CIRCE and what does it do?
Do I need an opening license for my business?
How much does it cost to become self-employed?
Official sources and useful links
- CIRCE — Center for Information and Network of Business Creation
- AEAT — Tax registration as a business entity
- Social Security — RETA registration
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.