For those evaluating the cost landscape of setting up and running a standard company in Uruguay, this analysis presents average company creation and ongoing maintenance costs for the most common entity type—Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (SRL)—using the latest available data for 2025. Key numbers, fee breakdowns, and currency details are included to support informed decision-making.
Company Formation Costs in Uruguay (2025)
Uruguay offers a moderately straightforward path to company creation, with clearly defined costs for each step. The following table summarizes the current average expenses involved in establishing a Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada (SRL):
| Cost Item | Amount (UYU) | Amount (USD) (1 USD ≈ 38 UYU) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum capital requirement | $60,000 UYU | $1,580 USD |
| Notary fees (drafting and registration) | $35,000 UYU | $920 USD |
| Registry fees (Registro Nacional de Comercio) | $5,000 UYU | $130 USD |
| Publication in Official Gazette | $4,000 UYU | $105 USD |
| Legal/accounting advisory fees (average) | $15,000 UYU | $395 USD |
| Total Average Cost | $60,000 UYU | $1,580 USD |
Note: USD equivalents estimated at the 2025 rate of 1 USD ≈ 38 UYU, based on public data from bcu.gub.uy.
Annual Maintenance Costs: Range and Breakdown
Once established, SRLs in Uruguay can expect annual maintenance requirements spanning several categories, from mandatory accounting to social security. The following table details typical maintenance expenses for a small company:
| Maintenance Cost Item | Amount (UYU/year) | Amount (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory accounting services | $25,000 UYU | $660 USD |
| Annual tax filing fees | $5,000 UYU | $130 USD |
| Social security contributions (minimum for small company) | $5,000 UYU | $130 USD |
| Legal address/representation (if outsourced) | $5,000 UYU | $130 USD |
| Optional legal/accounting advisory (recommended) | $40,000 UYU | $1,050 USD |
Based on these amounts, total minimum annual running costs for a typical SRL fall between $35,000–$80,000 UYU ($920–$2,105 USD), depending on whether companies opt for full advisory services. The regulatory environment does not require frequent capital increases or large hidden fees for ongoing operations, which supports stable annual planning.
Official References
The figures above are compiled from sources including the gub.uy government portal and the Central Bank of Uruguay, ensuring accuracy for 2025. For additional information on company setup procedures and business law, consult the official sections available at these websites.
Pro Tips for Managing Creation and Maintenance Costs
- Retain invoices for all professional fees: Notary, registry, and advisory fees are critical to proper accounting and possible tax optimization.
- Start with essential annual services only: Small SRLs can contain annual costs by deferring optional advisory services until growth or regulatory complexity demands more support.
- Monitor official currency rates: Since many advisory fees and international services may be quoted in USD, keep track of exchange movements for accurate forecasting.
- Review social security contributions annually: Minimum payments apply, but adjustments may be required as payroll increases or company activity changes.
Key Considerations
Establishing and operating a standard Uruguayan SRL in 2025 requires a minimum startup allocation of around $60,000 UYU ($1,580 USD), with ongoing annual costs typically ranging from $35,000 to $80,000 UYU ($920–$2,105 USD). These numbers are transparent and publicly accessible, which helps prospective owners anticipate financial requirements without hidden obstacles. When budgeting, it is prudent to include optional advisory services in your forecast, as they can be valuable as your company grows or encounters complex regulatory matters. Always rely on official government resources for the most authoritative guidance on compliance and local laws.