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What is the Entrepreneur Visa?
The Entrepreneur Visa in Spain is a residence permit for non-EU citizens who want to start an innovative business that benefits Spain’s economy. It requires a solid business plan, proof of funds, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
It’s fast-tracked (decision in ~20 days), initially valid for 1–2 years, renewable, and allows you to live and work in Spain with your family. Time spent on this visa counts toward permanent residency and eventually Spanish citizenship.
Who can apply?
Non-EU / non-EEA / non-Swiss nationals who want to live in Spain by launching a new business project.
Applicants with a business plan that is considered innovative, technological, or of special economic interest to Spain (e.g., creating jobs, introducing new technology, boosting competitiveness).
Entrepreneurs who can show they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their family while developing the project.
Founders who can prove they have the qualifications, skills, or background to carry out the business plan successfully.
Foreign investors wishing to set up a startup or R&D-based project in Spain.
Benefits of the Freelance visa
Fast-track approval → Applications are usually resolved within 20 working days.
Lower residency requirement → Initial permit of 1–2 years, renewable, with a path to long-term residence and citizenship.
Family reunification → Spouse/partner and dependent children can apply at the same time.
Work & live in Spain legally → Run your business and enjoy all residency rights.
EU access → Travel freely within the Schengen Zone (26+ countries).
Counts toward citizenship → Time spent under this permit counts toward permanent residency (after 5 years) and citizenship (after 10 years, or 2 for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Portugal, Andorra, Philippines, Equatorial Guinea).
Support for innovation → Spain encourages high-value, technology-driven, and job-creating projects.
Requirements for the Spain Freelance Visa
Non-EU Citizenship
You must be a non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss national.Innovative Business Project
Your project must be considered innovative or of special economic interest.
It should create jobs, contribute to science/technology, or boost Spain’s competitiveness.
A detailed business plan is required and will be assessed by Spain’s Ministry of Economy.
Sufficient Financial Resources
You must show proof of enough funds to:Support yourself and your family members during your stay.
Finance the early stages of your business.
Health Insurance
Private health insurance valid in Spain is required for you and any dependents.Clean Criminal Record
No criminal convictions in Spain or in countries where you have resided during the past 5 years.Lawful Status
You must not be unlawfully present in Spain or be listed as inadmissible in Schengen countries.Proof of Qualifications (recommended)
While not always mandatory, demonstrating your professional background, studies, or experience related to the business strengthens your application.
Application process
1. Prepare a Business Plan
Draft a detailed and innovative business plan explaining the project, its market potential, job creation, and value to Spain’s economy.
The plan must be submitted to the Ministry of Economy (ENISA or Dirección General de Comercio Internacional e Inversiones) for evaluation.
2. Collect Required Documents
Valid passport
Proof of financial means
Private health insurance
Criminal record certificates (home country + countries of residence in past 5 years)
Curriculum vitae (CV) and professional background
Any other documents supporting the business plan
3. Submit the Application
If you are outside Spain, apply at the Spanish Consulate in your home country for the Entrepreneur Visa (valid 1 year).
If you are already legally in Spain, apply directly to the Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos (UGE-CE) for a residence permit (valid 2 years).
4. Fast-Track Resolution
Authorities aim to issue a decision within 20 working days.
If no response is given within that time, the application is considered approved by default (“silencio positivo”).
5. Residence Card (TIE)
Once approved, you must register with local authorities in Spain to obtain your Foreign Identity Card (TIE).
6. Renewal
After the initial period (1–2 years), the permit can be renewed if the business is active, financially sustainable, and meeting the conditions of the business plan.
7. Long-Term Path
After 5 years, you may apply for permanent residence.
After 10 years (or 2 for citizens of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, or Portugal), you may apply for Spanish citizenship.
Difference with the Freelance Visa
1. Purpose of Each Visa
The Entrepreneur Visa is for innovative business projects that bring value to Spain’s economy (for example, tech startups, renewable energy, R&D, fintech).
The Freelance Visa (Self-Employed Visa) is for individuals who want to work independently as freelancers or run a traditional small business (consulting, trades, shops, services, etc.).
2. Eligibility
The Entrepreneur Visa is for non-EU nationals with a viable, innovative business plan approved by Spain’s Ministry of Economy.
The Freelance Visa is for non-EU nationals who can show skills, clients, or a business plan for self-employment, and the activity does not need to be innovative.
3. Approval Authority
The Entrepreneur Visa is evaluated by UGE-CE (Large Companies Unit) and the Ministry of Economy for innovation and economic impact.
The Freelance Visa is processed by local Immigration Offices in Spain and the relevant Consulate abroad.
4. Processing Time
The Entrepreneur Visa is fast-track, with a decision usually within 20 working days.
The Freelance Visa can take several months, depending on the consulate and workload.
5. Initial Validity
The Entrepreneur Visa usually grants a 1 year visa (if applying outside Spain) or a 2 year residence permit (if applying from inside Spain), both renewable.
The Freelance Visa typically grants an initial 1 year residence permit, renewable for 2 years at a time.
6. Financial Requirements
For the Entrepreneur Visa, you must prove funds to sustain yourself and cover the initial business investment (no fixed minimum, depends on the project).
For the Freelance Visa, you must show sufficient personal funds (around €600/month for the applicant and ~€225/month for each dependent) plus proof of clients or contracts.
7. Focus on Innovation
The Entrepreneur Visa is strictly for innovative, job-creating, high-value projects.
The Freelance Visa is for traditional or professional self-employment, with no innovation requirement.
What taxes will you pay?
As a Spain Entrepreneur Visa holder, you’ll be considered self-employed (autónomo) once you register in Spain. That means you’ll need to follow Spain’s tax rules for freelancers:
1. Income Tax (IRPF)
Freelancers in Spain pay progressive income tax on their worldwide income.
The rates range roughly from 19% to 47%, depending on how much you earn.
You’ll need to make quarterly tax payments on your estimated income.
2. Social Security Contributions
All freelancers must register with the Spanish Social Security system.
The standard minimum contribution is about €230–€320 per month, though it can be higher depending on your income level.
These payments give you access to Spain’s healthcare system and pension rights.
3. VAT (IVA)
If you provide services to clients in Spain, you may need to charge 21% VAT on invoices.
Work with international clients outside the EU often does not require VAT, but proper invoicing rules must be followed.
4. Double Taxation Treaties
Spain has agreements with many countries to avoid double taxation. If you’re paying taxes abroad, these treaties can reduce or eliminate double payments.
The Spain Entrepreneur Visa is your opportunity to live, work, and grow independently in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries. Whether you’re a digital professional, entrepreneur, or creative, this visa offers the freedom to choose your own clients, build your business, and enjoy life under the Spanish sun.
With the right legal support, the process becomes clear and stress-free — from preparing your business plan to handling the paperwork and taxes.
Ready to make Spain your new home? Contact our immigration lawyers today and take the first step toward your freelance future.
How can a lawyer help me with the Spanish Entrepreneur visa?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Understanding the eligibility requirements
A lawyer can help you understand the eligibility requirements, including the criteria you need to meet and the documents you need to submit.
Preparing your application
A lawyer can assist you in preparing your application, ensuring that all the required documents are included and that your application is complete.
Addressing potential issues
If there are any potential issues with your application, such as gaps in your employment history or criminal convictions, a lawyer can help you address these issues and present your case in the best possible light.
Representing you in appeals
If your application is denied, a lawyer can represent you in any appeals process and help you to overcome the reasons for denial.
Providing ongoing support
A lawyer can provide ongoing support throughout the application process, answering any questions you may have and keeping you updated on the status of your application.
If you are interested in obtaining a Spanish Entrepreneur visa, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Spain a reality.
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Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why Spain?
Obtaining an Entrepreneur visa in Spain offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides legal permission to live and work in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to Spain’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, the visa allows digital nomads to immerse themselves in the warmth of Spanish hospitality, savor its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
- Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Spanish culture.
- Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
- Stable economy
Spain has a stable and growing economy
- Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Spanish food and wine.
- Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
- Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
- Skilled workforce
Spain has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce
- Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to show income to apply?
Can my family join me on this visa?
Do I have to pay taxes in Spain as a freelancer?
Yes. Freelancers in Spain must:
Register with the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria).
Pay income tax (IRPF) on worldwide earnings.
Pay social security contributions as autónomos.
What’s the difference between the Freelance Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa?
The Freelance Visa is for those creating their own business or offering services directly in Spain.
The Digital Nomad Visa is for remote workers employed by or freelancing for clients outside of Spain.
How long does the application process take?
Can the Freelance Visa lead to citizenship?
Yes. After 5 years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency, and after 10 years (or less in some cases, e.g., Latin American nationals after 2 years), you may apply for Spanish citizenship.
What is the fee to apply for the Freelance Visa?
The application fee is usually around €60–€80, depending on the Spanish consulate where you apply. In some countries, the fee may vary slightly due to local currency conversion or administrative costs.
Do I need to apply in person?
Yes. You must submit your application in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country (or country of legal residence). This is because biometric data and original documents are required. Once in Spain, you’ll also need to appear in person at the immigration office to finalize your residence permit and obtain your residence card (TIE).
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in Spain or simply an investment.
Visit us: Av. Diagonal, 442, 3º 1ª , 08037 Barcelona (Spain)
Call us: +34 938 074 056
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