The content of this page is for guidance purposes only. Only the provisions set out in the regulations in force at the time of submitting the application shall apply.
Residence permit to develop a business project
Temporary residence and self-employment work authorization
Topics
Description
The temporary residence and self-employment work authorization allows nationals of third countries to reside legally in Spain and engage in economic activity on a self-employed basis, that is, as independent professionals or business owners. This permit is regulated by immigration legislation and is subject to specific conditions regarding financial means, the viability of the business project, and compliance with applicable sectoral regulations.
Avantages
✨ Allows the exercise of economic activity independently in Spain
✨ Possibility of family reunification once the requirements are met
✨ Access to the Social Security system and healthcare coverage
✨ Renewable and with the option to obtain long-term residence
How to apply? (including family members)
✔️ Profile of the main applicant:
Non-EU foreign nationals who wish to settle in Spain to carry out a professional or business activity independently.
✔️ Who must be the main applicant:
The foreign individual who will engage in the economic activity as a self-employed worker.
✔️ Family members who may accompany the applicant in the same application:
It is not possible to include family members in the initial application. Family reunification must be requested at a later stage, in accordance with the applicable regulations on reunification.
Requirements
✅ For the residence and self-employment work visa (from the country of origin):
- Not be unlawfully present in Spanish territory
- Have no criminal record in Spain or in previous countries of residence
- Not be listed as inadmissible in the Schengen area
- Have sufficient financial means for personal support
- Viable business project
- Compliance with the legal requirements for opening and operating the business
- Professional licensing or authorization if required for the activity
✅ For the residence and work authorization (resolution from the Immigration Office):
- Submission of the business plan
- Proof of sufficient investment
- Registration with the corresponding Social Security schemes
- Municipal or sector-specific licenses depending on the activity
Required Documents
📌 Valid and complete passport
📌 Criminal record certificate
📌 Detailed business plan
📌 Proof of professional qualifications or experience
📌 Proof of financial means
📌 Documentation demonstrating the planned investment
📌 Required authorizations or licenses for the activity
📌 If applicable, certificate of professional licensing or authorization
Duration and Renewal
✔️ Initial duration:
The initial authorization is valid for 1 year.
✔️ Renewal:
The renewed self-employment residence and work authorization will be valid for four years, unless a long-term residence authorization applies. It will allow the holder to work both as an employee and as a self-employed person anywhere in the national territory and in any sector of activity. The effects of the renewed authorization will be retroactive to the day immediately following the expiration of the previous authorization.
Application Process
Document gathering
The applicant must collect all required documents, including the business plan, proof of financial means, and the necessary licenses or authorizations to carry out the activity.
Submission of the application
The application must be submitted in person at the Spanish diplomatic mission or consular office in the applicant’s country of residence.
Decision and visa issuance
The consulate will issue a decision within a period of up to 3 months. If approved, the self-employment residence and work visa will be issued.
Entry into Spain and final procedures
The applicant must enter Spain during the validity period of the visa and apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within one month of entry.
Normative
- Organic Law 4/2000 on the Rights and Liberties of Foreigners in Spain and Their Social Integration
- Immigration Regulation, approved by Royal Decree 1155/2024
