Why Portugal? A Country Full of Opportunities
In recent years, Portugal has become a favorite destination for those looking to launch new ventures in a dynamic and expanding market. Frequently ranked among the best European countries to live in, Portugal offers a stable economy, targeted incentives for foreign investment, and an ever-growing tourism sector.
Since 2017, when Portugal exited the EU’s excessive deficit procedure, the country has experienced steady GDP growth (2.6% increase that year) and reduced unemployment (down to 8.5%). These improvements have fostered a fertile environment for foreign entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Tax Benefits and Business Incentives
Portugal offers several fiscal advantages and actively uses EU funds to attract new businesses. New enterprises may benefit from support that covers up to 26% of the total investment.
Key tax conditions include:
- Corporate income tax (IRC): 17% on profits up to €15,000; 23% above that threshold — significantly lower than in Italy.
- VAT in the foodservice sector: only 13%.
- Double taxation agreement with Italy: Italian entrepreneurs can transfer their tax residency to Portugal and apply for non-habitual resident (NHR) status, taxing only Portuguese-sourced income at a general rate of 25%.
To open a business in Portugal, you’ll need a residence permit and a D2 visa for immigrant entrepreneurs. A detailed business plan must be submitted to a Portuguese consulate in Italy.
Choosing the Right Location and Ingredients
As with any business, location is key. Thanks to a steady influx of tourists, many cities and coastal towns are ideal for opening a gelato shop.
To stand out from the local competition, your gelato shop should offer:
- Innovative and inviting design
- Unique and high-quality gelato flavors
- Excellent customer service and brand identity
Once you’ve chosen the right area, it's time to focus on the production side. Select only the best machinery and source top-quality ingredients — both fresh and semi-finished — from specialized suppliers who meet high standards and specific dietary needs.
Bureaucracy and Startup Costs
Setting up a gelato business in Portugal involves several administrative steps. These are similar to Italian procedures and can be handled with the help of a local accountant, international legal consultant, or a Portuguese "dispatcher" (business intermediary). The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Portugal can help connect you with trusted professionals.
You will need to choose a legal form for your company. Portuguese law recognizes:
- Sole proprietorships
- Partnerships
- Private limited companies (LDA)
Key steps to launch your business:
- Choose and register a business name with the DGRN – approx. €100, with a 15-working-day wait.
- Company registration via the Ministry of Interior – approx. €300. Submit your ID and Italian tax code to the Empresa Na Hora service.
- Social Security registration for your company and employees – must be completed within 10 days of your start date.
- Bank deposit of the company’s initial capital – within 5 business days of registration.
- Notify the Labor Institute with employment details such as schedules and workplace.
- Register accounting books with the Tax Office.
- Register any shareholders, if applicable.
- Sign up for private accident insurance not covered by public social security.
Required documentation includes:
- Articles of incorporation
- Capital deposit confirmation
- Certificate of admissibility
- Portuguese tax number (NIF)
- Company registration certificate
- Social Security registration
- Business start declaration
- Bank account number (NIB)
Costs to Consider When Starting a Gelato Shop
Some initial and ongoing costs include:
- Company registration: €300–€360
- Capital contribution
- Legal and accounting fees
- Monthly taxes and social contributions
- Municipal tax and VAT
- Rent and utilities
- Insurance premiums
- Employee salaries
- Entrepreneur visa (can cost several thousand euros)
- Marketing and advertising expenses
Opening a business in Portugal offers many benefits, but it’s not without challenges. Careful planning, risk evaluation, and informed decisions are key to success.
Why Gelato in Portugal? A Growing Market
Portugal’s growth isn’t limited to tourism — its commercial and entrepreneurial sectors are also booming. The country is quickly becoming one of the most dynamic and promising markets in the EU.
Opening an artisanal gelato shop in Portugal is a smart move for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a business that’s both solid and profitable. With rising tourism, favorable market conditions, simplified bureaucracy, and a healthy economy, Portugal is the right place to start and grow your gelato brand.
Learn the Craft: Training is Essential
Making artisanal gelato is not difficult — but mastering the art takes training and hands-on experience. In today’s competitive market, “good” is not enough: you need to make excellent gelato and know how to communicate your value to customers.
🎓 Explore the Best Gelato Schools in Italy
📩 For more information on how to open your gelato shop, contact us at info@ilgelatoartigianale.info or check out our list of top gelato ingredient suppliers.