Company Formation in Latin America

Based in Paris. Service in Spanish.

Direct presence in Peru, a network of associates across the region

Depending on your destination and objectives, WD operates in two distinct ways in Latin America: direct service in Peru, managing the entire process from Paris with local presence and knowledge of the Peruvian market; and coordination with international associates in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Uruguay.

In all cases, support is provided in Spanish, and the client’s point of contact is always WD Associés, from Paris.

Peru: a complete process that can be handled 100% remotely

“In Latin America, what works in Colombia does not necessarily apply in Chile or Mexico. Specialized advice by country, in Spanish.”

8
countries in the region covered by our network
Since 2021
supporting Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in the region

Legal structures for setting up a business in Peru

Peru is one of the most open markets in Latin America for foreign investment. There are no general restrictions preventing a foreigner from setting up a company. The process is accessible and can be handled remotely through an apostilled power of attorney.

Most widely used

Sociedad Anónima Cerrada (S.A.C.) — closely held corporation

The most commonly used corporate form in Peru for SMEs and family businesses. It allows up to 20 shareholders, does not require a mandatory board of directors, and offers limited liability. The most recommended option for foreign entrepreneurs.

Alternative

Sociedad Comercial de Responsabilidad Limitada (S.R.L.) — limited liability company

Similar to the S.A.C. in terms of limited liability, with up to 20 members. Suitable for certain types of projects and specific family or corporate structures.

Large-scale projects

Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) — public limited company

For larger-scale projects. No limit on the number of shareholders, with the possibility of listing on the stock exchange. Requires a mandatory board of directors and a more extensive corporate governance structure.

For Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Uruguay, WD coordinates the process through its network of international associates in each country. This includes initial advice on the legal and business environment, coordination with the local associate, and support throughout the entire process in Spanish, from Paris.

From the first consultation to an operating company in Peru

01

Initial consultation

Analysis of the project and selection of the most suitable legal structure for your objectives in Peru.

02

Company name reservation

Verification and reservation of the company name with SUNARP (National Superintendence of Public Registries).

03

Articles of incorporation and bylaws

Drafting of the incorporation agreement and bylaws before a notary. The entire process can be handled remotely through an apostilled power of attorney.

04

Registration and RUC (tax ID)

Execution of the public deed, registration with SUNARP and obtaining the RUC (taxpayer registration number) from SUNAT, including selection of the tax regime.

05

Launch

Opening a bank account, initial tax obligations, and support with the company's first operational steps.

Imagen

What no one tells you before you start

The most common mistakes we see among entrepreneurs who try to set up in Latin America without specialized advice:

Underestimating the differences between countries. Although Latin America shares a common language and many legal traditions, each country has its own tax, labor and corporate law system. What works in Colombia does not necessarily apply in Chile or Mexico.

Operating without a local legal presence. Many companies try to operate in the region without setting up a local entity, which limits their ability to invoice, hire employees and access financing.

Failing to properly handle international documentation. Powers of attorney, apostilles and documents of foreign origin have specific requirements in each country that must be understood before getting started.

Our network of international associates and our direct experience in Peru allow us to offer real, not merely theoretical, support throughout the region.

International network, support in Spanish

We coordinate the company formation process in Latin America from our base in Paris. In Peru, we operate directly. In the rest of the region, we work with trusted associates who specialize in each jurisdiction.

The client always has a single point of contact: WD Associés, in Spanish. There is no need to deal with multiple local firms or communicate in languages the client does not speak.

We do not disappear once the formalities are complete. Our clients rely on us for ongoing tax obligations, corporate documentation and the resolution of day-to-day legal issues.

Direct service in Peru, manageable 100% remotely with no need to travel
Network of international associates in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Uruguay
Support in Spanish with a single point of contact throughout the process
2021

From Paris, in Spanish

Can a foreigner set up a company in Peru?

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Yes, with no general restrictions. There is no need to be a resident or to travel to the country. The process can be completed remotely through an attorney-in-fact holding an apostilled power of attorney.

How long does it take to set up a company in Peru?

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The process takes between two and four weeks from the completion of the documentation, depending on SUNARP's processing times.

Is it necessary to have a legal representative in Peru?

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If the company's General Manager is a non-resident foreigner, it is advisable to appoint a local representative with authority to act before the Peruvian authorities.

What other countries in the region can you help me with?

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Through our network of international associates, we can coordinate the formation of a company in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Uruguay.