Legal forms of philanthropic organizations included in the law: Association, foundation
All foundations are public benefit organizations. Private—not public benefit—foundations do not exist as a legal form in Spain.
Five main social issues addressed by these organizations: Higher education, arts and culture, basic needs, housing and economic development, international causes
Average time established by law to register a philanthropic organization: 61-90 days
Registration varies considerably depending on the type of organization. For associations, according to Article 30.1 AA, registration may take a maximum of 90 days. For foundations, according to Article 29.3 Royal Decree 1611/2007 of December 7 registration could be a maximum of 180 days. For associations to be recognized as public benefit organizations, they may wait a maximum of 180 days, according to Article 3.9 of Royal Decree 1740/2003, of December 19. Registration for associations is voluntary.
Average cost for registering a philanthropic organization: US$34-$300
This does not include the initial endowment for foundations, which is €30.000, according to Article 12 of the Foundations Act, n. 50/2002, of 26 December, but only administrative and notarial costs.
Government levels primarily regulating the incorporation of philanthropic organizations: Central/federal government, state government
It depends on the geographical area where the organization mainly operates. Spain is a decentralized country; regions (Comunidades Autónomas) have their own registries and, in some cases, their own laws on foundations or associations that always comply with the basic regulation approved by the National Congress (Cortes Generales).
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