What we do
| Service | Includes |
|---|---|
| Company set-up | Spanish SL, statutes, partners' agreement |
| Licences | Activity licences, terraces, tourism authorisations |
| Contracts | Suppliers, clients, agencies, services |
| Employment | Seasonal and permanent contracts, dismissals |
| Buying a business | Lease, licence and liabilities review |
Setting up
A Spanish limited company (SL) is the usual choice for small and medium businesses. Foreign entrepreneurs need NIEs and, if non-EU, a residence route that allows self-employment. See residency in Menorca.
Tourism and rural businesses
Rural hotels, agroturismos and holiday rentals each have their own authorisations, separate from the activity licence. On rustic land, the island plan limits what can be done with farm buildings. See holiday rental licences.
Buying a running business
See also commercial property in Menorca.
Before paying any premium for a restaurant, shop or bar, we check that the activity licence matches the real activity, that the lease allows assignment and that the seller's debts stay with the seller. See also civil disputes.
Staff
We draft fixed-discontinuous and seasonal contracts, advise on working time and staff accommodation, and handle disputes. Menorca.law is part of Castell.law.
An illustrative example
Based on situations we commonly see; not a specific client. A couple planned to buy a farmhouse near Alaior and run it as rural accommodation. Before purchase we checked the island plan and the tourism rules: the main house qualified, but converting the old stables into rooms did not. They bought with a smaller business plan that complied from day one.
Tax and accounting for small businesses
A Spanish company files corporate tax and quarterly VAT returns and keeps official accounts; a self-employed person registers with social security and files quarterly income tax and VAT. Seasonal businesses in Menorca must plan for months with little income and fixed costs. We coordinate with local accountants so that the legal structure, the contracts and the tax obligations fit together from the first day.
Before you sign or pay, ask a lawyer
Send us the document, the listing or a short summary of the problem. A lawyer will tell you what matters, what it could cost you and what to do next.
Questions about doing business in Menorca
How long does it take to set up a company in Spain?
With NIEs and documents ready, a few weeks.
Can a foreigner own a Spanish company?
Yes; non-EU nationals working in it also need a suitable residence route.
Can I turn a Menorca farmhouse into rural accommodation?
Sometimes, subject to the island plan and tourism rules. Check before buying.
Do you review leases for business premises?
Yes, for tenants and landlords.
Do I need a Spanish company to rent out my villa?
No. Individuals can let property with a licence and pay non-resident or resident income tax on the rent. A company may suit larger portfolios; we compare both with your tax adviser.
Can you review a franchise or supplier contract?
Yes. We review contracts with suppliers, franchisors, agencies and clients and negotiate the terms that protect your business.