Can a foreigner start a company in Portugal online?
The «Criar Empresa» page of the Institute of Registries and Notaries explains how the online service authenticates someone who does not have a Portuguese citizen card. This article stays with that text.
It does not describe the practical steps to obtain a Digital Mobile Key with a passport: that AMA page was not confirmed here.
Which authentication the page allows
The page states that a foreign citizen can use a Digital Mobile Key linked to a passport or European authentication (eIDAS).
What is required of every partner
Every partner must have authentication (Digital Mobile Key or citizen card) and an active digital signature. Documents in a foreign language need a translation.
Partners that are foreign companies
Foreign partners that are legal persons need a Portuguese company number and tax number and a registration certificate from the country of origin, among other documents.
Key takeaways
- The IRN page allows a Digital Mobile Key linked to a passport or eIDAS authentication.
- Every partner needs authentication and an active digital signature.
- Documents in a foreign language need a translation.
- A foreign company that is a partner needs a Portuguese company number and tax number and a certificate from the country of origin, among other documents.
Frequently asked questions
Official sources
- Create a company (online service) (opens in a new tab)
Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN) ·
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