How to Start a Business in Valencia: A Step-by-Step Guide
Valencia is a city on the rise for business projects and offers a wide range of advantages, benefits and resources to carry out your business in the best way possible.
At MG Economistes, your trusted comprehensive consultancy, we will provide you with a guide with step-by-step instructions on how to start your company in Valencia. The foundation stone of a good organisation is a solid and planned start.
In addition, we will inform you about the most predominant sectors in the business sector in Valencia, the most developed activities and the current regulatory framework.
Market research
The first step for a company, whatever it may be, is in-depth market research. Conduct general market research in Spain and then delve into information about the city of Valencia.
You need to be clear about the demand for the product or service you wish to offer and how the competition is currently shaping up in Valencia and in other key regions of Spain in order to start your business.
Finally, you need to plan your financial horizon, focusing on two key questions: ‘How much money do you need to start your business‘, and ‘What are the costs involved in running the business‘?
To that end, we list here some of the costs common to all investments when starting a project:
- Rental
- Working staff
- Marketing
- Materials
- Taxes
Valencia’s most important business areas
Valencia is one of the most productive cities in Spain, with many booming industries. Important companies and a prosperous outlook are an irresistible invitation for entrepreneurs.
Do you want to know some of the most important sectors in the city? The most relevant sectors for entrepreneurship in Valencia are the following:
- Trade
- Tourism
- Catering
- Automotive
- Paper and graphic arts
Defining the legal entity of the company in Valencia
To successfully register your company in the city of Valencia, you need to decide, in advance, under which legal entity it will operate.
Once this has been resolved, you will have the opportunity to propose 5 trade names for your company (in order of priority if they are already in use) and register them with the relevant authorities, in this case, the Organisation of the Commercial Register, which is part of the Ministry of Justice.
Throughout this procedure, which may seem a little cumbersome, at MG Economistes we have established ourselves as a quality and reliable Legal Consultancy service
Accompanying entrepreneurs in their beginnings and development in a personalised way and with excellent management is our fundamental mission. Consolidating your company in the city of Valencia will be much easier with MG Economistes.
Business forms available in Valencia
In order to start your company in Valencia and successfully register the legal personality, the form of business remains to be clarified.
In Valencia, the business form or model refers, in a nutshell, to the structure a company takes to explain how it creates, delivers and captures value.
Within the corporate world valid today in Valencia, there are different types of business forms:
- Sole proprietorship
- Private Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Public Limited Company (PLC)
- General Partnership
- Limited Partnership
- Subsidiary
- Branch
Other obligations to open your business in Valencia, Spain
We continue our step-by-step guide to opening your business in the city of Valencia, Spain, with other essential obligations in the first steps of your business.
- Opening a corporate bank account: It is necessary to deposit the initial share capital (minimum €3,000 for an LLC, for example) in a bank account and obtain the certificate of deposit.
- Register the company with the Tax Agency: not being registered and, therefore, not paying taxes, is an infringement of current law. You must obtain a NIF (Tax Identification Number) and register with the Economic Activities Tax (IAE).
- Generate Social Security Number: It is mandatory to register your business and your employees with the Social Security, ensuring that you comply with labour regulations.
Remember that at MG Economistes you will find specialised and personalised services hierarchical if you are starting your company or business.
You will receive the advice you are looking for your company in Valencia, whether in the legal, accounting, tax or labour field.
Summary of legal requirements
Therefore, in order to start your business project in the city of Valencia, it is necessary to comply with the following legal requirements, all of which are mandatory:
- NIF and Social Security Number
- Declare the form or business model
- Submit all necessary permits and licences
Keys to the success of your company in the city of Valencia
- Connect with the Local Community: Participating in business events and networking can open doors to new opportunities.
- Research the market on a regular basis: Markets for different activities are not static. Regular research will help you to understand the dynamics of the sector and to offer better products and/or services.
- Stay Informed about Business Legislation: Spain, and in particular the City of Valencia, is constantly updating its business regulations, so it is vital to keep up to date to avoid falling into infractions that may result in penalties.
- Sign up for Sustainability Plans: Valencia promotes environmentally friendly business models, which can be a competitive advantage for your company.
- Take advantage of MG Economistes’ Advisory Services: Having experts will allow you to navigate the complexities of the Spanish system with greater confidence and efficiency.
Why choose Valencia for your company?
Now that you know, at first glance, the step-by-step to start your successful and reliable business in the city of Valencia, it is right to ask why do it there.
Valencia’s qualities are innumerable, and that is why it is one of the most productive cities in Spain, with a high rate of profitable small and medium-sized companies.
Quickly, the following characteristics emerge to understand that Valencia is an incredible alternative for your business:
- Infrastructure
Valencia has a modern and well-developed infrastructure, with office space, technology parks and business centres. It also has quality and reliable public services, such as telecommunications, electricity and water. - Quality of life
Valencia is one of the best cities to live in, with a relaxed pace of life, green areas and a good quality of life. - Innovative ecosystem
Valencia is a technology hub in Spain, with a growing innovative ecosystem. Many of the Valencian startups operate in attractive sectors for investment, such as Artificial Intelligence, eHealth or Sustainability. - Business opportunities
Valencia has business opportunities in the areas of quality of life, sustainability and care for the environment. For example, the Valencian Community has been chosen by the Volkswagen Group to install its electric battery factory in Sagunto. - Lower costs
Rental, housing and leisure costs in Valencia are lower than in other Spanish capitals.
- Infrastructure
Business statistics for Valencia
| Statistic | Valencia |
|---|---|
| Registered companies | 184,418 |
| Population | 814,208 |
| GDP per capita | €28,367 |
| Exports | €30,324 (in millions) |
| Quality of life index | 254.75 |
| Most developed sectors | Automotive, Trade, Tourism, Services |
Trends and current developments for starting a business in Valencia in 2026
Valencia’s business ecosystem continues to evolve in 2026, driven by digitalisation, sustainability and the attraction of foreign investment.
The city is strengthening its position as a technological and entrepreneurial hub, with notable growth in sectors such as technological innovation, sustainable mobility, the green economy and advanced services.
In addition, public administrations continue to promote grants and support programmes for entrepreneurship, especially aimed at startups, innovative projects and companies with social or environmental impact.
Keeping up to date with regulatory changes and new opportunities available in 2026 is key to starting a business in Valencia on a solid and competitive foundation.
Why choose MG Economistes as your Business Advisor in Valencia?
At MG Economistes, we specialise in supporting entrepreneurs, startups and expats who want to start a business in Valencia, Spain.
Whether you want to become self-employed (autónomo) in Valencia, set up a limited company (SL) or need ongoing accounting and tax support, our English-speaking gestoría in Valencia ensures full legal, tax and accounting compliance from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions about companies in Valencia
How can a foreigner start a business in Spain from Valencia?
Foreigners can start a business in Spain by choosing the appropriate legal structure, obtaining a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), registering with the Spanish Tax Agency and Social Security, and complying with local regulations.
Whether you are an EU or non-EU citizen, working with a tax advisor in Valencia for foreigners helps ensure the process is smooth and fully compliant with Spanish law.
Can EU and non-EU citizens start a business in Spain?
Yes. EU citizens can start a business in Spain with relatively few formalities, mainly registering as self-employed or setting up a company.
Non-EU citizens usually need a residence and work permit before starting a business. In both cases, a business consultant in Valencia, Spain can guide you through the legal and administrative requirements.
How do I become self-employed (autónomo) in Valencia as a foreigner?
To become self-employed in Spain (autónomo) in Valencia, you must register with the Tax Agency, Social Security and select the appropriate tax regime.
This option is very popular among freelancers and small business owners. An English-speaking gestoría in Valencia can manage registrations, taxes and ongoing obligations on your behalf.
Is it better to be autónomo or set up an SL in Spain?
The choice between SL vs autónomo in Spain depends on your business size, income level and risk exposure.
Autónomo status is simpler and cheaper to start, while an SL (limited company) offers limited liability and a more professional structure. A qualified accountant for startups in Valencia can help you choose the most suitable option.
Do expats need a gestoría or tax advisor in Valencia?
While not mandatory, most expats choose to work with a gestoría in Valencia for expats to handle accounting, tax filings, payroll and legal compliance.
Spanish regulations can be complex, especially for foreigners, so having a trusted tax advisor in Valencia for foreigners saves time and prevents errors.
Why work with an English-speaking accountant or business consultant in Valencia?
An English-speaking accountant in Valencia understands both Spanish regulations and the needs of international clients.
This is especially important for startups, freelancers and companies setting up a limited company in Spain, as it guarantees accurate advice, clear communication and long-term financial efficiency.

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