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How to Open a Business in Vigo (2026)

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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 city and activity.

Time at office

30-60 minutes (first appointment)

Estimated time

Declaration of responsibility: immediate opening. Full business license: 1-4 months.

Quick summary

Complete guide for opening a business in Vigo, Galicia. Business license, declaration of responsibility, administrative procedures and legal requirements in 2026.

Required documents

  • DNI or NIE of the owner

    If a company, incorporation deed and CIF of the enterprise.

  • Tax registration (Modelo 036/037)

    Must be registered as self-employed or have the company incorporated before opening.

  • Social Security registration

    Register as self-employed in RETA or workers if hiring employees.

  • Lease agreement or property deed for the location

    Documentation that proves the right to use the premises where the activity will take place.

  • ?

    Technical project (if required by the activity) 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 those involving works
  • ?

    Urban planning compatibility certificate Optional

    Confirms that the premises can be used for the activity you want to develop. Apply at Vigo City Hall before renting the premises.

    ⚠️ Recommended before signing a lease agreement

0 €
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 city and activity. €0.00
€0.00
€0.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Obtain urban planning compatibility for the location

    Go to official site

    Before leasing or purchasing, check with Vigo City Hall if the premises allow the activity you want to develop. This step saves you unnecessary delays and costs.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Most city halls resolve urban planning queries within 5-10 working days. Always request a written response."

  • 2

    Register for tax and social security purposes

    Go to official site

    If not yet self-employed, register first. Use Modelo 037 at AEAT and RETA registration through Importass. This step is necessary to proceed with the business opening.

    !

    Expert tip

    "If your company or S.A. is already incorporated, you only need its CIF and RETA registration."

  • 3

    Submit the declaration of responsibility or license to Vigo City Hall

    Go to official site

    For many commercial and service activities, a declaration of responsibility for opening is sufficient with Vigo City Hall. For more impactful activities (bars, workshops, industries), you need a full business license. In Galicia, business opening procedures are handled through the Xunta's portal and Points of Entrepreneurial Support (PAE). Local city halls manage the local business licenses.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Use the Oficina Acelera Empresa / Xunta de Galicia portal to determine which process applies to your activity before visiting the city hall."

  • 4

    Obtain any additional sectoral authorizations

    Depending on your type of business, you may need additional authorizations: sanitary (food service, hospitality), environmental (workshops, industries), tourism (accommodations), or entertainment (venues with music).

    !

    Expert tip

    "Check the Ministry of Industry's IPYME portal for a full list of necessary authorizations based on your CNAE activity."

Offices and service points - Vigo

Vigo City Hall — License and Activity Office

Praza do Rei, 1, 36202 Vigo

Monday to Friday: 08:30 - 14:00

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a business license and a declaration of responsibility?
The declaration of responsibility allows immediate opening, assuming that all legal requirements are met by the owner. The municipality can verify this later. A business license requires prior inspection by the municipality and may take months. For most commercial activities without special impact, the declaration of responsibility suffices.
How much does a business license cost in Vigo?
The cost of a business license varies according to Vigo City Hall and type of activity. For harmless activities (offices, small shops) the municipal fee is usually between 100€ and 300€. For classified activities (hostels, workshops) it can exceed 1,000€ due to required technical reports.
Can I start a business from home in Spain?
Yes. Many service-based businesses, consultancy or online sales can be conducted from your private residence. In that case, the 'business location' is your home and, if there is no public service, it usually does not require municipal licensing. But you must still register for tax and social security purposes.
What happens if I open a business without a license?
Opening a business without the required license or declaration of responsibility can lead to municipal penalties ranging from hundreds to thousands of euros in fines, as well as the sealing of your premises. City hall inspectors regularly perform inspections.
Do I need to make changes to the location if it requires works?
If the premises require renovations, you must apply for a construction permit or notification of works at Vigo City Hall before starting any work. Minor works (painting, light installations) can usually be handled through a notification of works. Major works require a technical project and a construction permit.

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

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