Registering a company in Uruguay is a step-by-step process that involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the National Directorate of Registries and General Tax Directorate. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you should be well on your way to successfully establishing your business in Uruguay. Be sure to adhere to the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth registration process and a successful start for your company in this progressive and business-friendly country. Uruguay's strategic location, strong economic stability, and positive business environment make it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs and businesses alike. With this guide in hand, you are now equipped to navigate the company registration process in Uruguay with confidence.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The first step in registering a company in Uruguay is to choose the type of company you want to register. The most common types are:
- Limited Liability Company (Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada - SRL)
- Corporation (Sociedad Anónima - SA)
- Simplified Shares Company (Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada - SAS)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Before registering your company, you'll need to choose a suitable name. The National Directorate of Registries (Dirección Nacional de Registros) has guidelines for acceptable names, which can be found at this link: https://www.dgr.gub.uy
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Next, prepare the necessary documentation for your chosen company type. The key documents are:
- Articles of Association (for SRL, SA, and SAS)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types) These forms can be downloaded from the National Directorate of Registries' website: https://www.dgr.gub.uy
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
You will need to identify at least one director (for SRL, SA, and SAS) or one representative (for Branch of a foreign company). Directors or representatives must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Capital requirements
Uruguay requires a minimum capital of UYU 5,000 for SRLs, and there's no minimum capital for SAs and SASs. There is no minimum capital requirement for branches of foreign companies.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application to the National Directorate of Registries. This can be done in person at their office or online via the following link: https://www.dgr.gub.uy
The fees for registering a company are as follows:
- SRL: UYU 15,000 (approximately)
- SA: UYU 20,000 (approximately)
- SAS: UYU 10,000 (approximately)
- Branch of a foreign company: UYU 20,000 (approximately)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After your company is registered, you must register for taxes with the General Tax Directorate (Dirección General Impositiva - DGI). This can be done in person at the local Tax Office or online via the following link: https://www.dgi.gub.uy
Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional permits or licenses. Check with the relevant authorities and industry regulators for specific requirements.
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from preparing documents to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.
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