Registering a company in Argentina may seem daunting due to its legal and bureaucratic requirements, but with the right guidance and understanding of the process, it is achievable. By selecting the appropriate company structure, choosing a unique name, appointing a legal representative, drafting company bylaws, and completing the necessary registration steps, you can establish your business in this vibrant South American market. Keep in mind that it is essential to consult with a local attorney or legal representative to ensure compliance with all local regulations and requirements.
Step 1: Choose a Company Structure
The first step in registering a company in Argentina is selecting the appropriate company structure. There are several types of legal entities in Argentina, including:
- Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) - Corporation
- Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (S.R.L.) - Limited Liability Company
- Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada (S.A.S.) - Simplified Corporation
For detailed information on each company structure, visit the Official Gazette of the Argentine Republic website: https://www.boletinoficial.gob.ar/
Step 2: Select a Company Name
Choose a unique company name that is not already in use by another business in Argentina. To verify the availability of your desired company name, you can use the Public Registry of Commerce (Inspección General de Justicia - IGJ) online search tool: https://www.jus.gob.ar/igj.aspx
Step 3: Appoint a Legal Representative
All companies in Argentina must appoint a legal representative who is a resident of the country. This representative will be responsible for managing the company and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Step 4: Draft and Notarize the Company Bylaws
Once you have chosen a company structure and name, you will need to draft the company bylaws. These bylaws must be written in Spanish and notarized by an Argentine notary public. The bylaws should include details about the company's purpose, management structure, and capital distribution.
Step 5: Register with the Public Registry of Commerce (IGJ)
Submit the notarized company bylaws, along with a completed registration application form and any additional required documentation, to the Public Registry of Commerce (IGJ) for approval. The IGJ will review your application and, if approved, issue a registration certificate.
Step 6: Obtain a Tax Identification Number (CUIT)
After registering with the IGJ, you must obtain a Tax Identification Number (Clave Única de Identificación Tributaria - CUIT) for your company. This can be done by applying online through the Federal Administration of Public Revenue (Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos - AFIP) website: https://www.afip.gob.ar/
Step 7: Register for Social Security and Labor
Next, register your company with the Argentine social security system and labor authorities. This can be done through the AFIP website as well.
Step 8: Open a Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account in Argentina for your company. This will require presenting your company's registration certificate, CUIT, and identification documents of the legal representative to the bank.
Step 9: Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits to operate in Argentina. Consult with your legal representative or a local attorney for guidance on any additional requirements for your business.
Costs and Time-frame for Registration:
The costs for registering a company in Argentina vary depending on the chosen company structure and other factors. Generally, the costs can range from USD 1,000 to USD 3,000. The time-frame for registering a company can take between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the chosen company structure.
Related Information
