Doing Business with Portugal

Exporting goods to Portugal involves several key steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Portugal’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code to understand tariffs and regulations.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with Portugal’s non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Portugal.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet local labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Submit Customs Declaration

   • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.

9. Pay Applicable Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any required import duties and taxes.

10. Track and Confirm Delivery

    • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• Portuguese Customs Authority
  • Website: Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira
• AICEP Portugal Global
  • Website: AICEP

Importing goods into Portugal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with Portugal’s import laws and product-specific regulations.

2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Determine if your products require special import licenses or permits.

3. Classify Your Goods

   • Identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather required documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Choose a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Standards

   • Ensure products meet local labeling and packaging requirements.

7. Submit Customs Declaration

   • File a customs declaration with the Portuguese Customs Authority.

8. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.

9. Arrange for Transportation and Delivery

   • Coordinate with a logistics provider to transport goods to their final destination.

10. Track and Confirm Receipt

    • Monitor shipment progress and confirm delivery upon arrival.

Key Contacts

• Portuguese Customs Authority
  • Website: Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira
• AICEP Portugal Global
  • Website: AICEP

Incorporating a company in Portugal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LDA) or Joint-Stock Company (SA).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Ensure the company name is unique and not already registered in Portugal.

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the Articles of Association and other necessary legal documents.

4. Open a Bank Account

   • Deposit the required share capital in a Portuguese bank account.

5. Register the Company

   • Submit incorporation documents at the Commercial Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Comercial).

6. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF)

   • Register for a tax identification number for the company.

7. Register for Social Security

   • Ensure compliance with employee benefits and contributions.

8. Register for VAT

   • If applicable, register your company for Value Added Tax (VAT).

Costs

• Registration Fee: Approximately €360 for standard registration
• Notary Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and type of company

Key Contacts

• Institute of Registries and Notaries (IRN)
  • Website: IRN
• Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority
  • Website: Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Portugal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study

   • Analyze market demand, location, and resource availability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (LDA).

3. Register the Company

   • Register your business with the Commercial Registry Office.

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange funding through loans or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an industrial area with access to infrastructure and resources.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for construction permits, environmental clearances, and industry-specific licenses.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery and ensure it meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

• AICEP Portugal Global
  • Website: AICEP
• Portuguese Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation (IAPMEI)
  • Website: IAPMEI

Registering a trademark in Portugal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Ensure your trademark is unique by searching existing trademarks in the Portuguese Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) database.

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and the list of goods/services it will cover.

3. Submit the Application

   • File your application online or at the INPI with the required forms and documents.

4. Application Examination

   • INPI will examine the application for compliance and potential conflicts with existing trademarks.

5. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for a period during which others can oppose it.

6. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, you receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Costs

• Application Fee: Approximately €100-€150 for one class of goods/services (additional fees may apply for each additional class)

Key Contacts

• Portuguese Institute of Industrial Property (INPI)
  • Website: INPI

Resolving commercial disputes in Portugal involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Portuguese commercial law for guidance.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation with the other party.

3. Mediation

   • Consider mediation with a neutral third party to facilitate a resolution. Mediation services are available through various legal organizations.

4. Arbitration

   • Use arbitration for a binding resolution if both parties agree. Portugal recognizes arbitration as an effective dispute resolution method.

5. Litigation

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the Portuguese court system. Prepare for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and length of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation and depend on the case specifics.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Justice
  • Website: Ministry of Justice
• Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP)
  • Website: CCIP

When considering business in Portugal, it’s important to understand various factors:

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language: Portuguese is the official language; English is commonly used in business.
• Business Etiquette: Formality is valued. Building relationships and trust is important.

Political Factors

• Government: Parliamentary Republic.
• Stability: Generally stable, with a supportive environment for business operations.

Economic Factors

• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• Investment Opportunities: Key sectors include tourism, renewable energy, and technology.

Foreign Exchange

• Exchange Rate: As part of the Eurozone, currency risk is minimized within EU countries.
• Regulations: Portugal follows EU trade regulations, facilitating easier trade within the bloc.

Rule of Law

• Legal System: Based on civil law; provides a robust framework for business operations.
• Intellectual Property: Strong protections aligned with EU standards.

Infrastructure

• Transport: Well-developed road, rail, and air networks.
• Utilities: Reliable, with ongoing improvements in energy and telecommunications.

Key Contacts

• AICEP Portugal Global
  • Website: AICEP
• Ministry of Economy and Maritime Affairs
  • Website: Ministry of Economy and Maritime Affairs