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Don't make the wrong choice! Autonomo, SL or SA for your startup in Spain 2024

Writer: Anastasia MasloAnastasia Maslo

Updated: Oct 4, 2024

Autonomo, SL, SA, Испания, Spain, startup, стартап

Hello, startups! Today we'll look at which flag to fly over your Spanish business: Autonomo, SL or SA.


Launching a startup in Spain is like surfing a wave of opportunity. But before you catch the wave, you need to choose the right board.

 

Autónomo

It's like a longboard - simple and maneuverable. Ideal for freelancers and microbusinesses. You are your own captain, you manage your own finances and taxes. Imagine a Russian sole proprietor, only with a Spanish accent.


Pros:


  • Easy peasy: Registration takes a couple of days and is low cost.

  • Taxes: You can choose a simplified taxation system (RETA) with fixed payments (from €294 per month in 2024).

  • Flexibility: Maximum flexibility, you are your CEO, CFO, and Head of Everything.


Cons:


  • Liability: Fully liable for debts with all your property.

  • Scaling: Not good for attracting investment and rapid growth.

  • Branding: Not always taken seriously by large clients and partners.



SL (Sociedad Limitada)

It's like a speedboat - dynamic and powerful. Suitable for small and medium-sized businesses ready to grow. The "golden mean" for most start-ups. Reminiscent of a Russian LLC.


Pros:


  • Limited liability: You only risk the authorized capital (minimum €3000 in 2024).

  • Fundraising friendly: Convenient form for raising investments and working with venture capital funds.

  • Image: Gives more credibility to partners and clients.


Minuses:


  • More complicated registration: The process takes longer and requires the help of a lawyer (gestor).

  • Accounting: More complex accounting and reporting system.

  • Taxes: Income tax (Impuesto sobre Sociedades) - 25% (in 2024).



SA (Sociedad Anónima)

It is like a yacht - prestigious and expensive. It is ideal for a large business planning an IPO,


Pros:


  • Prestige: Maximum level of trust from investors and partners.

  • Access to capital: Easier to attract large investments and go public.


Minuses:


  • High setup costs: Share capital - minimum €60,101.21 (in 2024).

  • Complex structure: Requires a board of directors and other governance bodies.

  • Maximum bureaucracy: Lots of paperwork and strict reporting requirements.

 

 

So which option should you choose?


It all depends on your goals, scope, and risk appetite.


  • Solopreneur, freelancer? → Autonomo

  • A small business with ambition? → SL

  • A major player aiming for an IPO? → SA


Lifehack: Don't hesitate to consult with lawyers and tax advisors. They will help you choose the best form of business and avoid pitfalls 🚀




 



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