Attention: it's advisable to seek professional advice, such as from an accountant or business advisor, to ensure you comply with all legal and tax requirements when setting up your sole proprietorship as a contractor in Portugal.
In Portugal, you are not allowed to operate as individuals to be a contractor. You will need to register a legal entity. This legal entity could be a sole proprietorship, business or organisation.
To create a sole proprietorship (known as "Empresário em Nome Individual" or ENI) in Portugal to operate as a contractor, you'll need to follow these steps:
Register for a NIPC (Número de Identificação de Pessoa Coletiva): This is a tax identification number for businesses in Portugal. You can register for NIPC at the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira).
Register for Social Security: As a sole proprietor, you'll need to register for social security contributions with the Portuguese Social Security system (Segurança Social).
Business License (Licença de Atividade): Depending on the nature of your contracting business, you might need to obtain specific licenses or permits. Check with the relevant authorities to determine if your business requires any additional permits.
Register with the Commercial Registry (Registo Comercial): You'll need to register your business with the Commercial Registry. This involves submitting necessary documents such as your identification, proof of address, and other relevant information about your business.
Tax Registration: Register your business for tax purposes with the Portuguese Tax Authority. You'll need to choose a tax regime that suits your business activities.
Remember that laws and regulations may vary, so it's essential to consult with local authorities or a legal professional to ensure compliance with all requirements.