LEGAL INSIGHTS

When deciding to move a business abroad, it is important to understand the main differences in legal form in terms of minimum share capital and number of shareholders/partners and shareholder liability.

The main types of companies in Portugal are:

• Private limited liability companies (Lda.) with two or more partners;
• Single-member limited liability companies (Unipessoal, Lda.) held solely by one partner;
• Private limited liability companies by shares (S.A.), with a minimum of five shareholders.

The table below shows the main characteristics in terms of number of partners, minimum share capital and its form, liability of shareholders, management, and (comparative) advantages.

* Additional liability may apply under specific circumstances.

For further information or assistance with company incorporations and with the setup of subsidiaries and branches, please contact us at geral@sbpslegal.com.