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Home > Empresa Na Hora vs Rauva: Which is Best for Company Setup?

Empresa Na Hora vs Rauva: Which is Best for Company Setup?

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Published at 2 November 2023

If you're starting a business in Portugal, you've likely come across Empresa Na Hora - a quick setup service offered by the Portuguese government. But there's a new player in town: Rauva. Both promise a streamlined company creation process, but which one truly delivers? Let's dive in and compare.

What is Empresa Na Hora?

Empresa Na Hora is a service provided by the Portuguese government, aiming to simplify the company formation process. It offers a set of pre-approved company names and facilitates the immediate creation of corporations. To use Empresa Na Hora, you go to a physical office, unlike the online counterpart, Empresa Online.

Rauva: The All-in-One Business Partner

While Rauva offers FREE company creation, Rauva has so much more to offer. Rauva is an all-in-one platform designed to support entrepreneurs throughout their business journey. From company formation to banking, invoicing, and accounting, Rauva has got you covered. And the best part? It's 100% digital, available in both Portuguese and English.

The Process: Empresa Na Hora vs. Rauva

While Empresa Na Hora offers a quick setup with pre-approved names, Rauva provides a more personalised experience. With Rauva, the process starts with a discovery meeting to understand your project. Once onboarded, licensed Portuguese attorneys handle all legalities, ensuring a smooth company incorporation. Plus, with Rauva, you get a supercharged business account and access to certified accountants.

Empresa Na Hora Pros and Cons

Empresa Na Hora Pros:

  • Government-Backed: Directly supported by the Portuguese government, ensuring legitimacy.
  • Physical Presence: Physical offices available for in-person assistance.
  • Multiple Business Types: Offers a variety of pre-approved company names and types.

Empresa Na Hora Cons:

  • Limited Digital Integration: The process might require physical visits or manual paperwork.
  • Language Barrier: Primary information and support are in Portuguese, which might be challenging for non-native speakers.
  • Less Customization: Pre-approved company names limit branding opportunities.

Rauva Pros and Cons

Rauva Pros:

  • Fully Digital: Complete the entire process online without any physical visits.
  • Multilingual Support: Assistance available in multiple languages, catering to a global audience.
  • Customised Solutions: Tailored services to fit individual business needs.
  • Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront pricing without hidden fees.
  • Expert Guidance: Access to a team of experts for advice and support.

Rauva Cons:

  • Newer Platform: Being a newer platform, some traditional businesses might be unfamiliar with it.
Feature/AspectEmpresa Na HoraRauva
Platform TypeGovernment-backedDigital fintech platform
ProcessPartially digital with potential physical visitsFully online
Language SupportPrimarily PortugueseMultiple languages including English
CustomizationLimited to pre-approved namesFull customization and branding
Pricing TransparencyVariesTransparent and upfront
SupportIn-person and onlineDigital support with expert guidance
Ease of UseTraditional methodsUser-friendly, streamlined digital process

By comparing the two, it's evident that while Empresa Na Hora offers a government-backed traditional approach, Rauva provides a modern, digital, and more user-friendly solution tailored for today's entrepreneurs.

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Steps to Register: Empresa Na Hora vs. Rauva

Starting a business in Portugal is an exciting venture, but the registration process can be daunting. Let's break down the steps for both Empresa Na Hora and Rauva, highlighting the ease and speed of each method.

Empresa Na Hora Registration Process:

1. Choose a Pre-Approved Name:

   - Visit an Empresa Na Hora office (List of Lisbon offices at the end of this article).

   - Select a name from a list of pre-approved company names.

2. Submit Required Documents:

   - Provide identification (passport or ID card).

   - Submit your NIF (tax number).

3. Pay the Registration Fee:

   - Fees vary depending on the type of company being registered.

4. Obtain the Company Card (Cartão de Empresa):

   - This card contains the company's tax identification number and Social Security number.

5. Register with Social Security:

   - This is an automatic step when using 'Empresa Na Hora'.

6. Wait for Approval:

   - The process is relatively quick, but any issues with documentation can cause delays.

Rauva Registration Process:

1. Discovery Meeting:

   - Start with a discovery meeting to understand your project and business needs.

2. Personalized Company Name:

   - Choose a unique company name that represents your brand, without being restricted to a pre-approved list.

3. Submit Documents Online:

   - Upload identification and other required documents via Rauva's secure platform.

4. Legalities Handled by Professionals:

   - Licensed Portuguese attorneys navigate the bureaucracy, ensuring a smooth registration process.

5. Transparent Pricing:

   - Opt for the Rauva Supercharged plan, which covers many of the legal fees for company creation.

6. Digital Business Account Setup:

   - Once your company is registered, you'll have immediate access to Rauva's supercharged business account.

7. Access to Additional Services:

   - Benefit from certified invoices, monthly certified accounting services, and more.

Comparison Highlights:

  • Speed: While 'Empresa Na Hora' offers a quick setup, Rauva's digital-first approach ensures a streamlined process without the need for physical visits to offices.
  • Name Flexibility: Rauva offers the freedom to choose a unique company name, unlike the pre-approved list system of 'Empresa Na Hora'.
  • Professional Assistance: With Rauva, licensed attorneys handle all legalities, ensuring a hassle-free registration process.
  • All-in-One Solution: Rauva isn't just about company registration. Once registered, businesses gain access to a suite of tools and services designed to support their growth.

While both 'Empresa Na Hora' and Rauva offer valuable registration services, Rauva's comprehensive approach, combined with professional assistance and digital solutions, makes it a top choice for modern entrepreneurs in Portugal.

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Cost Comparison: 'Empresa Na Hora' vs. Rauva

'Empresa Na Hora' has its set of fees, but with Rauva, many of the legal fees for company creation are covered. Rauva offers a comprehensive package, the Rauva Supercharged plan, which includes company creation, a business account, certified invoices, and monthly certified accounting services.
Service/Feature'Empresa Na Hora' CostRauva Cost
Company RegistrationVaries (based on type)Included in Supercharged plan
Company Name SelectionIncludedFree (Unique name choice)
Document SubmissionManual feesOnline (no additional cost)
Legal AssistanceAdditional feesIncluded with professionals
Business Account SetupSeparate bank feesIncluded in Supercharged plan
Additional ServicesVariesAccess to suite of tools & services

Tips for a Smooth Registration Process

Starting a business is an exhilarating journey, but the registration process can sometimes feel like navigating a maze. Whether you're going the traditional 'Empresa Na Hora' route or opting for the streamlined Rauva experience, a little preparation can make a world of difference. Here are some expert tips to ensure your smooth registration:

1. Research Beforehand: Familiarise yourself with the registration requirements. Whether it's the documents needed or the type of business entity you want to establish, a bit of homework can save you a lot of time.

2. Organize Your Documents: It might sound basic, but having all your essential documents in order, and preferably in digital format, can speed up the process significantly. This is especially true for Rauva's online platform.

3. Seek Expert Guidance: If you're unsure about something, don't hesitate to ask. Platforms like Rauva offer expert guidance, ensuring you're on the right track.

4. Plan Your Business Name: If you're using 'Empresa Na Hora', remember they offer pre-approved names. However, with Rauva, you have the freedom to choose. Ensure your desired name is available and resonates with your business's ethos.

5. Stay Updated: Regulations and requirements can change. Regularly check official websites or platforms like Rauva for any updates to the registration process.

6. Budget Accordingly: Be clear about the costs involved. With Rauva's transparent pricing, you know what to expect. However, always keep a little extra for unforeseen expenses.

7. Be Patient, But Proactive: Registration can take time, especially if there's a backlog or if you're registering during peak times. While patience is key, don't hesitate to follow up if you feel there's an undue delay.

8. Double-Check Everything: Before submitting, review all your details. A small error can lead to delays. Ensure everything from your business name to your contact details is accurate.

9. Stay Digitally Savvy: If you're using an online platform like Rauva, ensure you have a stable internet connection and keep digital copies of all documents. It not only speeds up the process but also ensures you have backups.

10. Celebrate the Milestones: Registration is a significant step in your entrepreneurial journey. Once done, take a moment to celebrate before diving into the next phase of your business adventure.

Remember, the key to a hassle-free registration is preparation. Equip yourself with the right knowledge, have your documents ready, and you'll be setting your business up in no time. Whether you're amidst the historic streets of Lisbon or the scenic beauty of Porto, your business dream is just a few steps away.

Conclusion

When it comes to starting a business in Portugal, both 'Empresa Na Hora' and Rauva offer valuable services. But if you're looking for a comprehensive, digital-first approach that covers not just company creation but also banking and accounting, Rauva stands out. It's modern, efficient, and tailored for today's entrepreneurs. Choose wisely, and kickstart your business journey with confidence.

FAQs:

What services does Rauva offer apart from company creation?

   - Rauva is a comprehensive platform offering services like business accounts, invoicing, expense management, and certified accounting.

How does Rauva ensure the smooth creation of my company?

   - Rauva employs licensed Portuguese attorneys who handle all legalities and navigate the bureaucracy on your behalf.

Are there any hidden fees with Rauva?

   - Rauva offers transparent pricing. The Rauva Supercharged plan covers many services, including company creation, at a clear monthly fee. State fees or additional services might incur extra charges.

How does Rauva compare to traditional banks in Portugal?

   - Rauva is designed to be a modern alternative to traditional banking systems in Portugal, focusing on the needs of entrepreneurs and offering a seamless digital experience.

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©Rauva - 2023
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Rauva is partnered with Swan who will be providing all payment services to Rauva clients. Rauva does not have access to client funds. Funds are kept in accounts provided by Swan, held in BNP Paribas. Swan is an EMI, based in France, supervised, and regulated by ACPR/Banque de France. Swan is authorized to carry out such services in Portugal and registered with Banco de Portugal under the registration number 7893.
Rauva is not a certified accounting or legal services provider. As such, Rauva does not provide accounting and legal services. Rauva acts as an intermediary who facilitates the introduction to our customers of accounting and legal services Partners who are legally registered and certified in Portugal. A list of Rauva’s Partners can be found here.