Establish a Branch in Portugal
Read about how to open a branch in Portugal and then contact our local agents for assistance throughout the process.
Are you ready to set up a branch in Portugal and need updated information for 2026? This article helps you understand the key requirements, mentioning that our Portuguese agents can assist throughout the entire process. Explore this guide and get in touch with our specialists.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Applicable legislation | For foreign countries |
Best used for | – banking, – insurance, – varied financial operations |
Minimum share capital | No |
| Time frame for the incorporation (approx.) | Around 4 months |
| Management | Local |
| Legal representative required | Yes |
| Local bank account | Yes |
| Independence from the parent company | Dependent on the parent company |
| Liability of the parent company | Full liability on the branch office's debt and obligations |
| Corporate tax rate | 19% (2026) |
| Possibility of hiring local staff | Yes |
What are the main features of a branch in Portugal?
- it is not a separate legal entity,
- it acts as an extension of the foreign enterprise,
- it must operate under the same name as the foreign company,
- it develops the same operations/activities.
Do I need a local partner to open a branch in Portugal?
No.
Who is liable for a branch in Portugal?
The foreign company.
Here is an infographic about branches in Portugal:
Where do I register a branch in Portugal?
The Conservatórias do Registo Comercial or the Commercial Registryis the institution in charge of company registration, including branches in Portugal.
Is there a minimum share capital required?
No.
What are the requirements to set up a branch in Portugal?
- verify and reserve the trade name before starting operations in Portugal,
- ensure a business address for your branch in Portugal,
- appoint a legal representative/agent,
- open a corporate bank account,
- register the branch for taxation in Portugal, etc.
What are the necessary documents for opening a branch in Portugal?
- the Certificate of Good Standing of the foreign company,
- the Memorandum and the Articles of Association,
- a copy of the Certificate of Registration of the parent company,
- the minutes of the General Meeting of the board of managers,
- a document attesting the branch representative in Portugal,
- shareholders’ IDs/passports.
NOTE: In matters of formalities, the branch needs a legal representative with residency in Portugal.
Here is a video presentation about branches in Portugal:
Where do I register a branch for taxation in Portugal?
At the Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira in Portugal.
Can I hire staff for my branch?
Yes, you can decide on the local workforce and respect the Labor Law and the Employment Law in Portugal.
Do I need to travel to Portugal to open a branch?
No, there is no obligation for you to travel to Portugal for establishing a branch; however, you may appoint one of our representatives, with a power of attorney, to act on behalf of your foreign company in this country.
Are there any precautions or updates for opening a branch in Portugal in 2026?
- 15% is the corporate tax for branches qualifying as small or medium-sized enterprises, for the first EUR 50,000,
- foreign companies opening a branch in Portugal must file with the Central Register of Beneficial Owners,
- all business changes after starting the activities with a branch in Portugal must be declared within a maximum of 30 days.
Having a team of accountants in Portugal is advantageous for opening a business in this country. This way, entrepreneurs can benefit from complete payroll services, bookkeeping, audits, and more. We invite you to contact our experts in company incorporation in Portugal and explore our personalized services. We are here to help you set up a branch in Portugal in 2026 in a fast manner.
Gabriel Guimarães Barreto, Attorney at Law · 5 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.