Spain Entrepreneur / Startup Visa Guide

The entrepreneur visa (residencia para emprendedores) under Law 14/2013 is for non-EU nationals launching an innovative business project deemed viable and of economic interest to Spain.

• Startup founders with a detailed business plan and investment capital
• Projects that may receive endorsement from ENISA or a regional economic development body
• Applicants with relevant qualifications or experience in their sector
• Not for remote workers serving foreign clients — use the Digital Nomad visa instead

Authorities review your business plan for viability, innovation, and potential economic impact — not just your personal finances.

• Business plan in Spanish covering market analysis, financial projections (1–3 years), and job creation potential
• Proof of investment funds or capital to launch the project (often €30,000+ depending on sector — verify with consulate)
• Professional qualifications or documented experience if your activity is regulated in Spain
• Clean criminal record and private health insurance until Social Security registration
• Project must demonstrate economic viability — vague or incomplete plans are commonly rejected
• Some regions offer startup programmes that streamline endorsement

Expect longer preparation than employment visas. Many applicants work with a gestoría or immigration lawyer.

• Foreign documents usually require an apostille (or equivalent legalization) and a sworn translation into Spanish (traducción jurada).
• Most consulates expect documents issued within the last 3 months unless otherwise stated.
• Passport must typically be valid for at least 12 months with at least two blank pages.
• Valid passport and visa application form
• Detailed business plan with financial projections and market analysis
• Proof of investment capital (bank statements, investment agreements)
• Professional qualifications (apostilled and translated if required)
• Criminal record certificate from countries of long-term residence
• Private health insurance meeting visa requirements
• Endorsement or favourable report from ENISA or competent authority where applicable

Processing includes business viability review, which adds time compared to standard work visas.

• Prepare business plan tailored to Spanish immigration expectations — consider professional help
• Submit at Spanish consulate in your country or via designated channels
• Business plan review typically adds 4–16 weeks to standard processing
• After approval: register your business structure (autónomo or SL), obtain NIE, and register with Seguridad Social and AEAT
• Do not start commercial activity before authorization is granted

Your residency is linked to your business activity — notify authorities of significant changes to your project.

• Empadronamiento: register your address at the local ayuntamiento within the first weeks.
• TIE card: book a cita previa for fingerprinting within 30 days of arrival or approval; submit EX-17 and pay form 790-012.
• Tax registration: file Form 030 with AEAT to register your fiscal address in Spain.
• Register as autónomo or incorporate (SL) and begin Seguridad Social contributions
• File Form 036/037 with AEAT for tax registration
• Budget for monthly autónomo Social Security contributions from day one of registered activity
• Healthcare: public SNS access after Seguridad Social registration