Buy a Shelf Company in Portugal
International investors who want to buy a shelf company in Portugal can discuss all the formalities with one of our company formation agents.
If you want to purchase a shelf company in Portugal, you may collaborate with our local specialists. This article presents some of the key features of this entity, mentioning that our Portuguese agents can deal with all the formalities for you.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Legal entities available for shelf company | – limited liability company (LDA), – public company (SA) |
Time required for purchasing the company | A few days |
Types of features it includes (corporate bank account, VAT number, etc) | – bank account, – legal address, – trading name, – tax number |
| The advantages of a shelf company | – rapid purchase & ownership transfer, – easy access to market, – no debts, – credibility |
| Appointing new directors | Yes |
| Capital increase allowed | Yes |
| Certificate of no commercial activities | No |
| Modify the objects of activity | Yes |
| Participants in the purchase procedure | Buyer (or representative) & seller |
| The cost of buying a shelf company | Depending on age & registration fees |
How is a shelf company known in Portugal?
- Ready-made company or vintage company,
- Sociedade/empresa pronta.
What is the main purpose of a shelf company in Portugal?
To commence a business without passing through the registration steps of a company in Portugal.
Who can buy vintage companies in Portugal?
EU and non-EU/EEA businessmen.
Here is an infographic that explains how you can buy a shelf company in Portugal:
What is the proper business structure for ready-made companies in Portugal?
- Private limited company – Sociedade por Quotas (Lda.)
- Joint stock company – Sociedade Anónima (S.A.)
What are the main features of a ready-made company in Portugal?
- it is already incorporated/registered,
- it has no commercial history,
- it has no debts,
- it has a tax ID,
- it does not have an active bank account, etc.
NOTE: Once the shelf company is purchased in Portugal, the new owner can activate the bank account.
Who is involved in the process of buying a shelf company in Portugal?
- the buyer – our customer,
- the ready-made company provider in Portugal.
REMARK: Our Portuguese agents can present you with a list of shelf company providers.
You can also watch the video presentation we have prepared:
What documents are needed for purchasing a shelf company in Portugal?
We will ask for your ID or passport and provide you with a standard form to complete and sign.
Can I purchase a ready-made company in Portugal remotely?
Absolutely. We work and represent customers via power of attorney.
Do I need a “no commercial activities” certificate when buying a shelf company in Portugal?
Not required.
What is the cost for a shelf company in Portugal?
Please access our free case evaluation page and place your questions.
Can I change the company name and/or directors after purchase?
Yes, once you get your shelf company in Portugal, you can make your modifications. You will also need to notify the Portuguese Trade Register.
Is it safe to buy a shelf company in Portugal?
Absolutely! There are no commercial activities involved; therefore, no debts.
How fast is the ownership transfer?
About 24-48 hours.
Do I need to travel to Portugal to buy a shelf company?
No.
How fast can I start doing business in Portugal?
As soon as you sign the documents and receive your shelf company in Portugal.
Those who do not want to go through the company formation stages in Portugal can think of purchasing a shelf company. We invite you to contact our specialists to obtain guidance and support throughout the procedures of buying a ready-made company in Portugal.
Gabriel Guimarães Barreto, Attorney at Law · 6 October 2026Gabriel has a law degree from Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, and currently is a Master’s Degree candidate of Corporate Sciences at the University of Lisbon.