Registration of the CNAE in official records before 2027

Royal Decree 10/2025, of January 14 not only requires companies to report their CNAE code to Social Security before June 30, 2025, but also establishes a second key milestone: the registration of the CNAE code in the administrative records of the national public sector before January 1, 2027.

This step is essential to ensure consistency in economic activity data across all public systems and to prevent future administrative issues.

Which administrative records are affected?

These are records managed by entities of the national public sector, such as:

• Central Commercial Registry
• Register of Public Sector Entities
• Public procurement records
• Registers of grants and subsidies
• Sectoral economic activity registers (energy, transport, health, etc.)

This obligation applies to all companies and entities that interact with the General State Administration and must keep their economic information up to date.

I want more information

 

What does CNAE registration involve?

1. Consistency across records

The goal is for the CNAE code reported to Social Security to match the one listed in the various administrative records. This avoids discrepancies that could cause:

• Rejections in public tenders
• Issues when applying for grants or subsidies
• Complications during inspections or audits

2. Document updates

In many cases, it will be necessary to:

• Update information on electronic platforms (such as RED, SARA, FACe, etc.)
• Provide supporting documentation (certificates, deeds, etc.)
• Coordinate with advisors or legal representatives to ensure correct registration

Which companies must register the CNAE?

• Companies that were already incorporated before January 16, 2025
• Companies that have changed their main activity and have not updated their CNAE
• Companies that participate in public processes (tenders, grants, agreements, etc.)

How is the CNAE registered?

Option 1: CNAE included in company bylaws

If the CNAE appears in the bylaws, the following steps are required:

• Amend the bylaws if the code has changed
• Formalize the amendment via a notarized deed
• Register the deed in the Commercial Registry
• Report the change to the relevant administrative records

👉 At Adlanter, we handle the entire process: drafting, notary, and registration. Learn more in our deed management service.

Option 2: CNAE not included in the bylaws

If the CNAE is not mentioned in the bylaws, the following will suffice:

• Certificate from the administrative body
• Direct communication to the relevant administrative records
• (Optional) Notarized deed for greater formality

What happens if the deadline is missed?

As of January 1, 2027, companies that have not properly registered their CNAE may face:

• Requests for correction
• Loss of access to grants or tenders
• Inability to operate normally on public platforms
• Reputational risk and indirect penalties

How can Adlanter help you?

At Adlanter, we offer a comprehensive service to help you meet this requirement:
✅ Review of bylaws and documentation
✅ Drafting of certificates or deeds
✅ Registration management in administrative records
✅ Coordination with notary and Commercial Registry
✅ Personalized advice based on your sector

Learn more about our corporate operations

Need help registering your CNAE before 2027?

Contact our advisors and we’ll help you comply quickly, safely, and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which records are required to have the updated CNAE?
All administrative records of the national public sector that contain economic information about the company.

Is it mandatory to amend the bylaws?
Only if the CNAE is included in them and has changed. If it’s not included, a certificate from the administrative body will suffice.

Can I complete the registration myself?
Yes, but if deeds or multiple registries are involved, professional advice is recommended.

What if I have several CNAE codes?
You must report the one that reflects your main activity. If you’re unsure, we can help you determine it.