Expanding your business beyond the UAE is a smart move for investors seeking global opportunities. Among European destinations, Portugal stands out with its stable economy, EU membership, and the popular Golden Visa program. For UAE residents, setting up a business in Portugal can open doors to European residency, access to new markets, and long-term growth.
At Al Tawkel Center, we assist entrepreneurs and expats with international company formation, ensuring all documentation and legal processes are handled smoothly.
Why Choose Portugal for Business?
Portugal offers several advantages for UAE residents:
- Access to the European Union market.
- Residency options through investment programs.
- Low operational costs compared to other EU countries.
- Strong trade ties with Asia, Africa, and Europe.
If you are weighing your options between UAE and other global destinations, check out our guide on Dubai Free Zone Business Setup, which explains why many investors use Dubai as a launchpad before expanding abroad.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Business in Portugal
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Choose the Right Business Structure
Foreign investors can register as:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership
- Limited Liability Company (LDA)
- Branch Office
Each structure comes with different capital requirements and responsibilities.
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Register Your Company Name and Tax Number
You must apply for a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF) and ensure your company name is approved before moving ahead.
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Open a Business Bank Account
Just like in Dubai, you’ll need a corporate account for financial transactions. Proper documentation and attested papers are required—something our Document Clearing Services in Dubai can help streamline before submission.
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Draft and Submit Incorporation Documents
The Articles of Association must be notarized and submitted to Portuguese authorities. Any errors here can cause delays, like what happens when visa applications get rejected due to mistakes.
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Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits
Depending on your business type, you may require additional sector-specific approvals.
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Apply for Residency (Golden Visa Option)
Business investors can apply for a Portugal Golden Visa, which allows residency for themselves and their families. We recently covered a similar program in our article on How UAE Residents Can Apply for a Portugal Golden Visa.
Why Work with Al Tawkel Center?
Handling international company setup requires expertise in documentation, legal procedures, and cross-border compliance. Our team has already helped clients with UAE document clearing and business setup in Dubai, and we extend the same expertise to Europe.
Final Thoughts
Portugal offers UAE investors an excellent opportunity to expand into Europe, but the process requires the right guidance. From tax registration to residency applications, every step must be completed carefully to avoid delays.
Looking to set up your business in Portugal? Chat with us on WhatsApp today and let Al Tawkel Center guide you through the entire process, from Dubai to Lisbon.