Find Commercial Space or Office for Business in Portugal

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Portugal has become a top destination for many entrepreneurs looking to grow their business in an attractive setting. Whether you’re searching for a commercial space, an office, or a warehouse, the country offers numerous opportunities to establish yourself at competitive costs. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect space for your business in Portugal.

Keys to Finding the Perfect Space

To find the ideal space for your business in Portugal, several options are available to you:

Real estate listing websites: Platforms like Idealista, OLX, or Imovirtual are full of listings for commercial and professional spaces for rent across the country. You can conduct targeted searches based on your criteria (location, size, budget, etc.).

Specialized real estate agencies: Using a local agency specialized in commercial real estate can save you valuable time. These professionals know the market well and can offer you properties that precisely match your needs.

Professional network: Don’t hesitate to activate your network and contact local chambers of commerce or entrepreneur associations. They may know of interesting opportunities.

On-the-ground prospecting: Walking the streets of neighborhoods that interest you can help you spot vacant spaces with “For Rent” signs. It’s also a chance to soak in the atmosphere and commercial vibrancy of the area.

Key Players in Commercial Real Estate in Portugal

Several reputable real estate agencies have specialized in renting professional spaces in Portugal. Among the most well-known, we can mention:

– Cushman & Wakefield: An international player present in the Portuguese market for many years. – CBRE Portugal: A benchmark in commercial real estate, with in-depth expertise in the local market. – JLL Portugal: A global network offering a wide range of real estate services to businesses. – Savills Portugal: An agency known for its professionalism and deep knowledge of the Portuguese market.

These agencies generally have a varied portfolio of properties for rent, ranging from small commercial spaces to large logistics warehouses, including modern offices in city centers.

The Winning File: Essential Documents

To rent a professional space in Portugal, you will generally need to provide the following documents:

  • An ID (passport or ID card)
  • Your company’s Portuguese tax number (NIF)
  • An extract from your company’s commercial registry
  • Your company’s articles of incorporation
  • Financial guarantees (bank statements, business plan, etc.)
  • An insurance certificate for the space

It is recommended to prepare these documents in advance to save time in your processes. Don’t hesitate to get help from a local lawyer or accountant to ensure your file is complete and compliant with Portuguese legal requirements.

Rental Budget: How Much Does It Cost?

The rental costs for a professional space in Portugal vary considerably depending on the city, neighborhood, and type of property. As a guide, here are some average price ranges:

– Lisbon (city center): €15-25/m²/month for an office, €20-40/m²/month for a commercial space – Porto (city center): €12-20/m²/month for an office, €15-30/m²/month for a commercial space – Medium-sized cities: €8-15/m²/month for an office, €10-20/m²/month for a commercial space – Industrial zones/warehouses: €3-7/m²/month

You should also budget for a security deposit (usually 2 to 3 months’ rent) and agency fees if you go through an intermediary.

Emerging Cities: Setting Up at a Lower Cost

While major metropolises like Lisbon and Porto remain very attractive, they are also the most expensive. To set up at a lower cost, several emerging cities offer interesting opportunities:

Braga: Nicknamed the “Portuguese Silicon Valley,” this city in the north of the country attracts many tech companies thanks to its moderate rents and quality of life.

Coimbra: A renowned university city, it offers a pool of talent and attractive real estate costs.

Setúbal: Located near Lisbon, this rapidly developing port city offers spaces at competitive prices.

Évora: This historic city in the Alentejo region is experiencing an economic revival and offers interesting opportunities for businesses.

A Helping Hand: Support for Setting Up

Portugal has implemented several measures to encourage businesses to set up in its territory:

“Portugal 2030” Program: This European program offers grants for the establishment and development of businesses in certain priority regions.

Tax incentives: Some municipalities offer reductions in local taxes for businesses that set up in their area.

Renovation aid: Grants may be available for renovating commercial spaces, especially in historic city centers.

Free trade zones: Madeira and the Azores benefit from a favorable tax status that may interest some businesses.

To benefit from these aids, it is recommended to contact AICEP (Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade of Portugal), which can guide you through the process.

Good to know:

Portugal has a network of business incubators and coworking spaces that can be a flexible and cost-effective solution to start your activity before moving into your own premises.

Finding the ideal space for your business in Portugal requires good preparation and in-depth knowledge of the local market. By following the advice in this guide and getting support from professionals, you will maximize your chances of finding the perfect space that perfectly matches your needs and budget.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.

About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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