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Setting up a business in northern Portugal

Do you want to start a business in northern Portugal?

Thanks to the improvement in the country’s economic situation, which is particularly evident in the digital’s development, real estate and tourism sectors, the north of Portugal attracts many entrepreneurs.

Do you also want to start your own business in Porto or other cities in the north of Portugal? Authentic-Portugal shares some information about the creation of a company in the north of Portugal.

Discover Porto

Northern Portugal: A region with multiple job opportunities 

Northern Portugal is a region rich in opportunities for entrepreneurs. With its beautiful landscapes, unique culture and mild climate all year round, the north of Portugal offers an ideal setting to create a business.

Whether you are looking for a strategic location or want to take advantage of the tax advantages of this territory, here are the points you will have to consider if you plan to start a professional activity and create a business in the north of Portugal. 

Find out about the legislation of Northern Portugal

First, make sure that your project complies with Portuguese laws on commercial and industrial property so that it can be implemented without legal or tax problems. 

Also check if certain activities do not require a special permit such as those related to the agricultural or fishing sector. A good knowledge of local rules can save you time but especially money. 

Learn more abour Portugal's taxes

Take the time to choose wisely the type of company that will best suit your business. SARL, SAS, EURL, SCI... Each form of corporation has its own tax regime, so take the time to compare the tax regimes in effect for each of these statutes. 

Advantages of starting a business in Portugal 

Starting a business in Portugal can be a good opportunity because of its business environment, low corporate tax rates and access to the EU market. Portugal has a stable economy, a highly skilled workforce and a growing entrepreneurial culture, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

The main advantage concerns the advantageous interest rates on companies. Portugal has a flat rate tax rate of 21% for businesses and individuals, one of the lowest in Europe. The country also offers tax credits for research and development as well as tax breaks for companies operating in designated areas.

Authentic Portugal lists the advantages of going to the north of Portugal, especially to Esposende, to start a new business and create a business.

Discover Esposende

Weather, geographical position, culture and the presence of many professional opportunities, discover why Esposende and the north of Portugal are places to focus in the context of the creation of a company. 

Why choose to come in Esposende

Setting up a business in northern Portugal : Several financial aids

Several financial aids are proposed to help entrepreneurs to open their business such as government grants or bank loans established by the Portuguese state. 

These programs were created specifically to encourage this type of entrepreneurial initiative. 

In Esposende, START Esposende is an initiative set up by the municipal council to help the inhabitants of Portugal but also foreigners who have come to settle down and open a business in the sector. 

In order to increase the county’s economic development and attractiveness, START Esposende offers support services for entrepreneurs wishing to create a professional project and companies wishing to set up and develop in Esposende. 

Learn more about START Esposende program

ACICE, Commercial and Industrial Association of the Esposende Council


Always with the aim of ensuring the success of companies to establish themselves in the county and promote the development of this sector, the ACICE (Commercial and Industrial Association of the Council of Esposende) provides member companies with the necessary resources to maintain their activity by defending them against anything that could harm them. 

This non-profit association covers trade, industry, tourism and services. Its mission is also to promote its territory and therefore the companies present. 

Learn more about ACICE

come and discover the north of Portugal, Esposende and its neighboring cities during a trip. Authentic Portugal offers many tourist rentals and gives you some addresses for a pleasant time. 

Discover our accomodationsDiscover restaurants and bars in Esposende

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