Thinking of starting up a business in Spain? The Spain entrepreneur visa—also known as the startup visa—might be something you’re after. It allows you to live in Spain while you develop your business. But here’s the catch: not every idea makes the cut. Your business has to bring some clear value to Spain’s economy or society. If it does, you could secure a residence permit for three years.
Types of Spain Entrepreneur Visas
Depending on your job or purpose, you can choose from these options:
- Visa for Entrepreneurs and Business Activities (REM): For investors with a solid business plan that’s of economic interest to Spain. Significant capital investment is a must.
- Visa for Highly Skilled Professionals (TAC): For highly qualified individuals with a job offer in Spain. Positions could include management roles or strategic jobs at large companies or key SMEs.
- Intra-company Transfer Visa (TTI): Designed for top-level staff being transferred from their company abroad to its branch in Spain.
- Residency Visa for Training or Research (RIN): For those interested in training, innovation, or research at Spanish institutions.
- Family Members Visa (RFI): For family of entrepreneur visa holders, including spouses and children under 18.
Required Documents for an Entrepreneur Visa
You’ll need to collect the following for your application:
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- Long-stay visa application form.
- Recent passport photos.
- Copies of current and previous passports, as well as visas.
- A police clearance certificate proving no criminal activity in the past five years.
- Proof you can support yourself financially (bank statements, contracts, etc.).
- Health insurance approved in Spain, covering emergencies, accidents, and repatriation without deductibles.
Specific Requirements by Visa Type:
- Entrepreneurs and Business Investors: A report showing your project benefits Spain’s general interest, issued by the relevant authority.
- Highly Skilled Professionals or Intra-company Transfer: Residence authorization processed through Spain’s migration department.
- Family Members: Proof of relationship, such as a birth or marriage certificate.
Applying for a Spain Entrepreneur Visa
While the process is straightforward, small mistakes could ruin your chances. Take time to get everything right the first time. Here’s how to apply:
- Find the Right Office: Usually, you’ll file at the Spanish consulate in your country, but confirm this beforehand.
- Choose the Right Visa: Match your plans with the correct visa type.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather everything needed and translate it into Spanish or English if necessary.
- Schedule an Appointment: Use the consulate’s website or call to book.
- Attend Your Interview: Be punctual, bring all documents, pay the fee, and answer the officer’s questions.
After Arrival in Spain
Once you’re in Spain, there’s more to do. Within a month, apply for a tarjeta de identidad de extranjero (TIE), your foreigner ID card. Head to the local Foreigners Office with your passport, three photos, and proof of fee payment.
Costs of the Spain Entrepreneur Visa
Fees vary by nationality:
- U.S. Citizens: €167
- Canadians: €100
- Other Nationalities: €80
Validity and Renewal
The entrepreneur visa lasts one year, but you can apply for a renewable three-year residence permit before it expires.
Alternatives to the Entrepreneur Visa
Not sure this fits? There’s the autonomo visa Spain, ideal for freelancers, or the investor visa for major investments like real estate. For remote work, consider the digital nomad visa instead.
Starting a business in Spain is a big step, but with the right planning and the correct visa, it can be done smoothly. If the details feel overwhelming, seek help from an immigration expert to guide you.
