30 October 2026

Buy a Shelf Company in Portugal

Buy a shelf company in Portugal: who can buy, legal form, bank account, costs, notary and time frame for a ready-made Portuguese company. Get our support.

Are you interested in purchasing a shelf company in Portugal? Let us explain to you the main requirements in this article and then reach out to our online services to get the support you need.

How is a shelf company known in Portugal?

  • Ready-made company,
  • Vintage company,
  • Sociedade pronta,
  • Empresa na hora.

What can I do with a shelf company in Portugal?

Start a business without dealing with the incorporation steps & formalities of a company in Portugal.

Who can purchase shelf companies in Portugal? Are there any restrictions?

No restrictions imposed! Any EU or non-EU/EEA investor/entrepreneur can purchase a vintage company in Portugal.

Is there a specific business structure for ready-made companies in Portugal?

Yes, vintage companies are registered as:

  • Private limited liability companies – Lda. In Portugal,
  • Joint stock companies – S.A. in Portugal.

What makes a shelf company in Portugal an optimal business choice?

A ready-made company has:

  • tax ID,
  • It is already incorporated,
  • no commercial activities and therefore no history, etc.

NOTE: It can be used as soon as it is purchased.

Do I receive a bank account when buying a shelf company in Portugal?

There is no active bank account attached to a shelf company in Portugal. However, this can be activated once the purchase is concluded.

Where do I find shelf companies in Portugal? Do you provide assistance in this direction?

Our local agents can offer you a list of shelf company providers in Portugal.

How do I pay for a ready-made company in Portugal? Is it expensive?

  • you can buy the shelf company once all documents are signed. Our specialists can detail the entire process,
  • shelf companies might have higher prices, because these are already incorporated and can be used or activated rapidly.

Do I need to travel to Portugal to buy a shelf company?

No need. The entire process can be done remotely.

Can I make modifications to the firm once purchased?

Yes. You can:

  • change the name,
  • appoint new directors,
  • determine the type of activities, etc.

IMPORTANT: All the company changes you make must be sent to the Trade Register in Portugal.

Does a shelf company have debts?

No.

Is it safe to purchase a ready-made company in Portugal?

Absolutely. There are no business risks.

Is the notary involved in buying a vintage company in Portugal?

Yes. The IDs and power of attorney used in the purchase process must be notarized first.

What is the time frame to purchase a Portuguese shelf company?

A few days, as soon as all documents are signed and received (IDs, standard forms, etc.).

We invite all international businessmen interested in exploring our information about shelf companies in Portugal and request a price for our services. Contact us as soon as you decide to work with our specialists when buying a vintage company.