Spain startup & entrepreneur visa guide

What Is Spain's Startup and Entrepreneur Visa?

Spain offers residency pathways for people who want to start or run a business in the country. These visas let entrepreneurs and startup founders live in Spain while building their companies. You can work on your own business, hire employees, and access the European market from a Spanish base.

Spain's main options are the Startup Visa (for innovative companies) and the Entrepreneur Visa (for self-employed individuals and business owners). Both pathways give you legal residency while you establish operations.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply if you:

• Plan to create a new business or are already running one
• Have a viable business idea or established company
• Can show you have enough money to support yourself
• Pass background and security checks
• Have health insurance coverage

Non-EU citizens typically qualify. EU citizens generally have different, simpler residency rules.

Key Requirements and Documentation

Most applications require:

• A detailed business plan showing your idea, market research, and financial projections
• Proof of investment capital (your own funds or investor backing)
• Evidence of relevant education or work experience
• Bank statements showing financial stability
• A rental agreement or proof of housing in Spain
• A valid passport
• Health insurance documentation
• Criminal background clearance

Some regions in Spain have additional local requirements. Startup programs often need endorsement from an official startup organization or business incubator.

How the Application Process Works

1. Prepare your documents — Gather your business plan, financial records, and personal paperwork

2. Submit to the consulate — Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country

3. Attend an interview — Discuss your business plans and answer questions

4. Await approval — Processing takes several weeks to months

5. Receive your visa — Once approved, collect your visa and travel to Spain

6. Register locally — Complete residency registration in your Spanish city

You'll need to renew your visa periodically. After a certain time operating successfully in Spain, you may qualify for longer-term residency or other immigration pathways.

What Happens After You Arrive

Once you land in Spain with your visa, you must:

• Register with local authorities
• Open a business bank account
• Register your company with Spanish tax authorities
• Register for social security if hiring employees
• Maintain your health insurance

Next Steps

Requirements and application processes change regularly. Visit the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration or your nearest Spanish consulate for current details, exact fees, and processing timelines specific to your situation.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.