How to Open a Business in Alcalá De Henares (2026)
Cost
Free
Tax and Social Security registration: free. Business license municipal fee: varies from 100 € to several thousand depending on the municipality and type of activity.
Time at office
2-4 hours (basic procedures)
Estimated time
1-4 weeks for harmless activities; months for activities with environmental impact
Quick summary
Guide for opening a business or commercial premises in Alcalá De Henares. Business license, tax registration and municipal procedures. Updated step-by-step process as of 2026.
Required documents
-
Valid DNI or NIE
Of the proprietor or founding partners.
-
Tax registration (model 036 or 037)
Notify the beginning of activity to AEAT using model 036 (full) or 037 (simplified for self-employed with no intra-Community operations).
- ?
RET registration (if self-employed) Optional
Register in the Self-Employed Special Regime of Social Security.
⚠️ For individual self-employed persons -
Business license or responsible declaration
Municipal authorization to operate in the premises.
-
Lease agreement or property deed
Proof of use of the premises where the business operates.
: 2026
Step by step
- 1
Choose Legal Form and Activity Epigraph
Go to official siteDecide if you operate as an individual self-employed person (individual) or as a company (SL, SA). The IAE epigraph determines the specific taxes and requirements for your activity.
!Expert tip
"For a simple start-up, the most straightforward and economical option is to be an individual self-employed person. A limited liability company offers more asset protection but requires more management."
- 2
Tax Registration — Model 036 or 037
Go to official siteNotify the start of activity to AEAT using model 036 (full) or 037 (simplified for self-employed with no intra-Community operations). You can do this online through the AEAT website.
!Expert tip
"Tax registration must be done before or on the day you start operating. It is free."
- 3
RET Registration (if self-employed)
Go to official siteWithin 30 days of tax registration, register in the RET system through the Social Security's electronic portal.
!Expert tip
"As of 2026, the minimum self-employed contribution rate starts at €225/month for low-income individuals (net income system). If you expect to earn little, declare low real incomes and pay less."
- 4
Apply for Business License with City Hall
Submit a business license or responsible declaration application at the Alcalá De Henares City Hall. Harmless activities (offices, minor retail commerce) usually get immediate approval through a responsible declaration.
!Expert tip
"First consult with the city hall to determine if your activity requires prior licensing or can be handled with a responsible declaration — it may save you weeks of waiting."
Offices and service points - Alcala De Henares
Alcalá de Henares City Hall — Urbanism / Licenses Department
Check the exact address on the Alcalá de Henares City Hall website
Frequently asked questions
What is CIRCE and what does it do?
Do I need an opening permit to open a business?
How much does it cost to become self-employed?
Official sources and useful links
- CIRCE — Centre of Information and Network for the Creation of Enterprises
- AEAT — Enterprise census registration
- Social Security — RET registration
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.