Contents
- How Do Free Economic Zones Work in Spain?
- Barcelona Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Barcelona)
- Cádiz Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Cádiz)
- Vigo Free Trade Zone
- Special Tax Regime of the Canary Islands (Zona Especial Canaria – ZEC)
- How to Register a Business in a Spanish Free Economic Zone
Free Economic Zones (FEZs) are designated areas where businesses can operate under simplified rules. These zones offer reduced taxes, lower customs duties, and streamlined administrative procedures, making them attractive for companies looking to grow, export, or enter new markets.
Although they aren’t widely known, Spain has several Free Economic Zones that play a growing role in attracting investment. These areas are especially beneficial for companies in logistics, trade, and manufacturing. Thanks to their location near major ports, they serve as strategic hubs for trade with Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
How Do Free Economic Zones Work in Spain?
Spain has seven officially recognized Free Economic Zones, commonly referred to as Zonas Francas. These zones offer tax and customs incentives designed to promote trade and attract investment. A public-private consortium manages each zone and operates under the supervision of Spain’s Ministry of Finance and the European Commission.
List of Free Economic Zones in Spain:
- Barcelona Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Barcelona)
- Cádiz Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Cádiz)
- Vigo Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Vigo)
- Las Palmas Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas)
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Tenerife)
- Algeciras Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Algeciras)
- Seville Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Sevilla)
These zones are valuable tools for international competitiveness. In a highly regulated European Union market, where businesses often face heavy tax and compliance burdens, Spanish Free Economic Zones offer a “window of opportunity” to reduce costs, optimize supply chains, and gain flexible access to both European and global markets.
In this article, we’ll focus on the most significant Free Economic Zones in Spain—those that stand out for their volume of operations, developed infrastructure, and strategic importance. These include the zones in Barcelona, Cádiz, and Vigo. We’ll also highlight the Canary Islands Special Zone (ZEC), which operates under a unique tax regime distinct from the standard Free Economic Zone model.
Barcelona Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Barcelona)
The Zona Franca de Barcelona (ZFB) is the largest Free Economic Zone in Spain, covering a total area of 4.7 million square meters. Strategically located between the Port of Barcelona, El Prat International Airport, a major freight rail terminal, and key motorway connections, the zone offers direct access to markets across the European Union, North Africa, and Latin America.
More than 300 companies operate within ZFB, including major international corporations. The zone is extreme in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, logistics, and the chemical industry. Notable residents include SEAT, EBRO, Covestro (Bayer), DB Schenker, Consum, FCC, and Wallbox, among others.
Development Breakdown:
- 96.3% of the area (360 hectares) is already leased
- 2.9% (10.5 hectares) is under development
- 0.2% (0.5 hectares) is reserved for future projects
One of the zone’s key assets is Parc Logístic, a logistics hub focused on international trade. High demand from businesses is driven by modern infrastructure, flexible leasing options, and upgraded warehouse facilities.
ZFC Customs Complex: A Key Storage Zone
Within the ZFB, the Zona Franca Customs (ZFC) complex plays a critical role. Located close to the port, this dedicated customs area covers 160,000 square meters, including:
- 84,000 m² of warehouse space
- 9,000 m² of office space
- 3,000 m² of service areas
ZFC offers full exemption from import duties, VAT, and trade policy restrictions while goods are stored in the zone. These benefits apply without time limits, as long as the cargo remains within the area.
ZFC is the only free zone in Europe represented on the Board of Directors of the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) and is an active member of global logistics associations.
Business Infrastructure
The central business hub is the Zeta building, a modern business center with 13,000 square meters of space. Offices and commercial units range from 60 to 400 m², accommodating logistics firms, customs agencies, and urban planning entities. It also houses offices for the Barcelona Regional and the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB).
Security and Operations
The entire zone is under 24/7 security, managed by both the Civil Guard and private security services. Operations run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which is vital for companies with continuous logistics workflows.
Official website: zfbarcelona.es
Looking for the Right Free Economic Zone in Spain for Your Business?
The experts at Laduchi Consult can help you evaluate different jurisdictions, compare legal and tax frameworks, and identify the most suitable zone for your business model.
Request a Consultation
Cádiz Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Cádiz)
The Zona Franca de Cádiz (ZFC) is one of the oldest and largest Free Economic Zones in southern Spain, established in 1929. Covering more than 2 million square meters, it includes a network of industrial and logistics areas throughout the province of Cádiz. The main customs zone is located just 4 km from the Port of Cádiz, with direct highway access, proximity to Jerez and Seville airports, and excellent connections to the Port of Algeciras.
Over 350 companies operate within the zone, spanning various industries, including international trade and logistics, as well as industrial processing. Operations are allowed for goods from both non-EU countries and within the European Union. Permitted activities include storage, packaging, labeling, assembly, and other value-adding processes.
In the main secured customs area:
- 286,343 m² total surface area
- Standard warehouse units ranging from 100 to 2,000 m²
- 8,686 m² of specialized refrigerated storage (total volume: 76,118 m³)
The zone offers preferential rental rates for export-focused businesses. Additional logistics, industrial, and office spaces are also available across other parts of the province.
Customs and Tax Advantages
- Full exemption from import duties and VAT until goods are released for free circulation
- Unlimited storage duration under customs control
- Partial shipments are allowed without immediate tax payment
- No requirement for a bank guarantee
- Goods imported from the EU may also qualify for VAT exemption if re-exported
- Excise goods can be stored for up to 6 years without the need for a fiscal warehouse.
Business Infrastructure
ZFC offers a well-developed business ecosystem, including 19 business centers and 9 industrial parks that host offices, production facilities, and logistics operations. Companies receive support from the Promoción Empresarial Department, which guides international trade, taxation, logistics, market access, and investment opportunities.
A specialized digital platform, CEDOP, is available to all zone members, streamlining customs procedures and offering complete visibility into goods movement and compliance.
Security and Operations
The Cádiz Free Trade Zone is a closed and secure area that operates 24/7. It is equipped with video surveillance and access control systems, allowing entry only to authorized companies and personnel.
Official website: zonafrancacadiz.com
Vigo Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca de Vigo)
The Vigo Free Trade Zone is the only customs-free zone in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula. The zone includes two main sites:
- The Balaídos Industrial Park, featuring 37,633 m² of covered warehouse space
- A port area of approximately 200,000 m², with both open-air and covered storage facilities — ideal for efficient maritime cargo handling
Vigo is strategically located, just 30 km from the Portuguese border, close to an international airport, and well-connected by road and rail to major cities in both Spain and Portugal.
The zone is open to domestic and international companies from all sectors involved in export, import, and global trade. Authorized activities include industrial, commercial, and service operations, as well as storage and value-added processing (such as packaging, labeling, and product preparation for market).
Key Advantages:
- Full exemption from customs duties, VAT, and special charges while goods are stored
- Deferred tax payments until goods leave the zone
- Simplified and expedited customs procedures
- Unlimited storage time under customs supervision
- 24/7 security and video surveillance
Business Support
The Vigo Free Trade Zone is managed by a public consortium that guides international trade, assists in finding business partners, and supports market expansion. The zone also promotes innovation and entrepreneurship through business incubators and startup accelerators, offering valuable resources for emerging businesses.
Official website: www.zfv.es
Canary Islands Special Zone (Zona Especial Canaria — ZEC)
The ZEC (Zona Especial Canaria) is not a free trade zone in the traditional sense. It remains a rather special low-tax regime that enables companies to pay just 4% corporate income tax, making it one of the most attractive business environments in Europe.
Why ZEC Is Not Considered a Classic Free Trade Zone
- Unlike traditional free zones, goods imported into the Canary Islands are not exempt from customs duties or other import charges.
- The ZEC operates within the EU’s common customs framework
- Its advantages are primarily tax-related, rather than focused on customs or simplified goods movement
Key Benefits
- 4% corporate income tax (compared to the standard 25% rate in Spain)
- Exemption from IGIC (the Canary Islands’ equivalent of VAT) on transactions between ZEC companies
- No taxation on dividends, interest, or capital gains for non-resident investors
- Additional tax incentives under the broader Canary Islands Economic and Fiscal Regime
Infrastructure
The entire Canary Islands territory is eligible for ZEC benefits. In addition, there are designated free zones within the islands that can be combined with ZEC’s tax advantages. The archipelago offers well-developed logistics, with major international ports and airports serving European, African, and Latin American markets.
Who Can Apply?
Companies engaged in industry, logistics, technology, tourism, digital services, and other strategic sectors are eligible, as long as they create jobs and invest in the local economy. ZEC status requires registering a new company and meeting minimum investment and employment requirements.
How to Register a Company in a Spanish Special Economic Zone Remotely?
Opening a company in one of Spain’s Special Economic Zones can be done entirely online, without the need for your physical presence in the country. This is especially relevant for foreign investors looking to benefit from tax and customs incentives. You can choose between two registration formats:
- Fast-track format — up to 10 business days. A standard charter is used and cannot be modified. This is ideal for a sole founder or when no specific terms are required.
- Standard format — up to 30 business days. Allows for a custom charter, which is especially important when there are multiple founders or when internal agreements need to be included.
Company Registration Steps
Step 1. Obtaining a digital signature
The digital signature is mandatory for working with a notary in Spain online. Without it, it’s impossible to issue or sign a Power of Attorney, and therefore to begin the registration process. It is also used later when dealing with government institutions (such as filing reports).
Timeframe: 1 business day after submitting documents
Get a digital signature online
Step 2. Registration on the notarial portal
This is the internal system used by Spanish notaries. Your profile is created here, allowing you to verify your identity when issuing a Power of Attorney (PoA) in the name of Laduchi Consult to open a company online. Without this step, a notary cannot issue documents remotely.
Timeframe: 1 business day after obtaining the digital signature
Step 3. Issuing a Power of Attorney (PoA)
Laduchi Consult’s lawyers need a notarized PoA to register the company and obtain necessary documents (including the NIE) on your behalf. Without it, they cannot legally act for you in Spain.
Format: Online, with a video call with a notary (30–40 minutes, Madrid time)
Includes:
- PoA for company registration
- PoA for obtaining NIE
Timeframe: Up to 2 business days after confirmation
Step 4. Obtaining a non-resident NIE
This is the personal identification number for foreigners in Spain. It’s required to establish any company and is also used for banking, tax matters, and document processing. A notarized, apostilled copy of all passport pages is required.
Timeframe: From 5 business days
Step 5. Pre-registration stage
- Submitting a name request (3 options) to the Companies Register
- Opening a bank account
- Drafting the charter (standard for fast-track, custom for standard format, and multiple founders)
Step 6. Company registration
At this stage, your company is officially registered in the Spanish registries. Once the notary signs all documents and the charter, the data is submitted to the Companies Register. Within 1–2 business days, your company will receive its tax number (NIF). This is the key moment: with the NIF, your company becomes a legal entity and can start operating.
Timeframe: 1–2 business days after signing
Note: A foreign national can be the director of their company if they apply for an entrepreneur visa within two months, which grants the right to work in Spain.
Step 7. Obtaining a license (if required)
In most cases, companies operating in SEZs — just like regular companies — need standard licenses depending on their activity. Please note that each SEZ may have specific licensing requirements, depending on the region and business type. Laduchi Consult experts will guide you through all the steps needed to obtain the licenses required for your activity and ensure compliance with SEZ regulations. Our team handles document collection, coordinates with local authorities, and accelerates permit processing, allowing you to launch operations quickly.
Step 8. Registration in the Special Economic Zone
After obtaining the tax number and, if necessary, licenses, it is required to apply to include the company in the register of residents of the chosen Special Economic Zone of Spain. This is the final step that officially confirms the status of your company as a participant of the SEZ and grants the right to enjoy all its tax and administrative benefits.
What it includes:
- SEZ registration application
- Proof of compliance with SEZ criteria (activity, company structure, etc.)
- Submission and approval by the SEZ’s governing authority
Important: Each SEZ may have different procedures, selection criteria, and business plan requirements. The Laduchi Consult team will handle the process for you, ensuring compliance with the specific regulations of the selected zone.
Note!
If the company is being registered as a legal entity (parent company), the process is the same, with one additional step:
Collection of parent company documents and obtaining a NIF.
You’ll need to provide:
- Company registry excerpt (not older than 3 months)
- Company charter
- Translation of documents into Spanish
- Apostille on all documents
The digital signature and NIE are issued to the director or legal representative of the parent company.
Conclusion
Spain’s Special Economic Zones are a powerful tool for international businesses, helping companies reduce costs, streamline logistics, and access new markets. Thanks to tax incentives, strategic location, and developed infrastructure, they remain one of the most attractive options for entrepreneurs planning to expand into Europe.
However, to fully benefit from an SEZ, it’s essential to understand both the advantages and compliance requirements, including potential legal and policy changes. Laduchi Consult will assist you in selecting the most suitable Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for your business and register your company, including the remote registration process. We also provide comprehensive assistance in obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, ensuring that all documentation is completed correctly and in compliance with the law.
Please note that all materials contained on this site have been prepared for informational purposes only. This data does not constitute or replace professional financial, legal or tax advice. The information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances. Always seek professional advice from officially licensed professionals: financial advisors, accountants and lawyers.
