ÍNDICE
- Does opening a business automatically give me the right to reside in Spain?
- Different ways to obtain residency by opening a business
- Requirements to open a business in Spain (2026)
- How to formalise the business after approval of the business plan
- Which option is most suitable for obtaining residency in Spain by opening a business?
- How can PermisodeTrabajo.eu help you?
- Frequently asked questions about residency in Spain for starting a business
Spain is one of the most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs who want to obtain residency in Spain by starting a business. Its strategic location, access to the European market and high quality of life make the country an ideal environment for starting a business in Spain as an international entrepreneur.
In recent years, Spain has seen strong growth in foreign entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals, with more than 500,000 foreign self-employed workers registered in the country.
Many of these entrepreneurs come from countries such as China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and several Latin American countries, reflecting the international interest in obtaining residency in Spain through entrepreneurship.
Can I live in Spain if I open a business?
In this article from PermisodeTrabajo.eu, we analyse the different legal ways to obtain residency in Spain by starting a business, the requirements involved, and the differences between:
- the self-employment residence and work permit, and
- the entrepreneur visa in Spain under Law 14/2013.
Does opening a business automatically give me the right to reside in Spain?
No, it is not automatic.
Simply registering a company, obtaining a tax identification number (CIF), or registering as self-employed does not automatically grant residency in Spain.
However, starting a business in Spain can be a valid pathway to obtain residency, provided that the entrepreneur correctly applies for the appropriate immigration authorisation and meets the legal requirements established by Spanish immigration law.
Different ways to obtain residency by starting a business
There are different legal routes to obtain residency in Spain by opening a business or developing an entrepreneurial project.
For non-EU citizens, starting a business will only allow residency if one of the following authorisations is obtained:
- Residence and self-employment authorisation
- Residence authorisation for entrepreneurs (Entrepreneur visa in Spain – Law 14/2013)
In both cases, the authorisation must be approved before starting the business activity.
Residence and self-employment authorisation
Non-EU entrepreneurs who want to start a traditional business or work as self-employed in Spain must apply for a residence and self-employment permit.
What is a residence and self-employment authorisation?
This authorisation allows a foreign national to legally reside in Spain and carry out an economic activity such as:
- self-employed professional
• working partner in a company
• company administrator with executive functions
This permit is regulated by Organic Law 4/2000 on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and its implementing regulations.
Main requirements
Authorisation to reside and work as a self-employed person requires proof that the business project is real, viable and complies with the applicable regulations.
It is not enough to set up a company or express the intention to start a business; it must be demonstrated that the activity can be carried out effectively in Spain.
The main requirements include:
- Submitting a report or business plan that justifies the economic viability of the project, including the planned investment
- Submitting an estimate of income and expenses and, where applicable, job creation.
- Likewise, proof must be provided that sufficient financial resources are available to start up the activity and to guarantee one’s own livelihood.
- Furthermore, when required by the nature of the work, it will also be essential to demonstrate the corresponding professional qualifications, the recognition of foreign qualifications where applicable, and compliance with specific sectoral requirements.
Is this the same as the authorisation for entrepreneurs under Law 14/2013?
Not necessarily.
Residence authorisation for entrepreneurs (Law 14/2013)
The residence authorisation for entrepreneurs provided for in Law 14/2013 requires, among other requirements, that the business project be innovative and of special economic interest to Spain.
Business plan as a means of obtaining residency in Spain: what Law 14/2013 says
Key points of the business plan according to Law 14/2013
- Innovation and Value: The project must demonstrate innovative character and growth potential.
- Prior favourable report: It is necessary to obtain a favourable report from the Directorate General of Trade and Investment.
- Personal Management: The entrepreneur must actively participate in the management.
- Economic Resources: The entrepreneur must prove economic resources for their sustenance, equivalent to 100% of the monthly IPREM.
- Strategic advantage: Unlike general immigration regulations, this law allows the permit to be processed without having to leave Spain if the applicant has previously been legally resident.
This route is particularly used by technological profiles, start-ups and innovative projects.
Requirements to open a business in Spain (2026)
Starting a business in Spain involves both commercial and administrative requirements, which are separate from immigration procedures.
Foreign entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Spain must generally comply with several legal steps before beginning their activity.
The main requirements to open a business in Spain typically include:
- Choosing the appropriate legal structure (self-employed professional or company)
- Registering with the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria)
- Registering with the Social Security system
- Obtaining the necessary sector licences or administrative permits, depending on the activity
- Complying with tax, accounting and labour obligations
However, for non-EU citizens, opening a business is not enough to obtain residency in Spain.
In these cases, the entrepreneur must also apply for the appropriate immigration authorisation, such as:
- the self-employment residence and work permit, or
- the entrepreneur visa in Spain under Law 14/2013
For this reason, when starting a business in Spain as a foreign entrepreneur, it is essential to analyse both the commercial requirements and the immigration strategy before launching the project.
How to formalise the business after approval of the business plan
Many entrepreneurs believe that once their business plan has been approved, residency in Spain is guaranteed.
However, approval of the business plan only represents the first stage of the process.
After obtaining the visa or residence permit, the entrepreneur must:
- register as self-employed or create a company
• start the business activity within the required period
• comply with tax and labour obligations
• maintain the business activity in order to renew the residence permit
Spanish immigration authorities require a real and operational business, not merely a formal project.
Which option is most suitable for obtaining residency in Spain by opening a business?
The choice between self-employed residency and residency for entrepreneurs (Law 14/2013) will depend on:
- Type of project
- Level of investment
- Innovative nature
- Current immigration status
- Professional profile of the applicant
A prior legal analysis is key to avoiding mistakes that could lead to a rejection.
How can PermisodeTrabajo.eu help you?
At PermisodeTrabajo.eu, we have extensive experience advising foreign entrepreneurs and business owners on planning and processing their projects in Spain, ensuring a legally sound approach from the outset that allows them to meet their business and professional goals. Our approach combines:
- Preliminary legal feasibility analysis
- Strategic design of the immigration plan
- Coordination of the business plan
- Support throughout the procedure
- Follow-up for renewals
Frequently asked questions about residency in Spain for starting a business
Can I live in Spain if I open a business?
Opening a business in Spain does not automatically grant residency. Non-EU citizens must apply for the appropriate residence permit, such as the self-employment residence permit or the entrepreneur visa in Spain.
How much do I need to invest in Spain to get residency?
There is no fixed minimum investment amount. The required investment depends on the business project and must demonstrate economic viability and sufficient financial resources.
Can I get a visa if I buy a business in Spain?
Yes, in some cases buying or taking over an existing business can be used to apply for self-employment residency, provided that the project remains viable and the applicant meets the legal requirements.
What is the easiest way to get residency in Spain as an entrepreneur?
The most appropriate route depends on the type of business and the applicant’s profile. Traditional businesses usually apply for self-employment residency, while innovative start-ups may apply for the entrepreneur visa under Law 14/2013.
Obtaining residency in Spain through entrepreneurship does not depend solely on starting a business, but also on strictly complying with the legal requirements set out in immigration regulations or Law 14/2013. Prior specialist advice reduces the risk of rejection and guarantees an immigration strategy that is aligned with the business project.
If you need more information about any immigration procedure, which work permit or authorisation you are entitled to or what your best option may be, at PermisodeTrabajo.eu we will be happy to help you with the process.
For any additional queries about immigration in Spain, please do not hesitate to contact us by telephone on 91 847 87 30 or by email at contacto@permisodetrabajo.eu.
PUEDE QUE TAMBIÉN LE INTERESE…
¿Sueñas con emprender en España? Requisitos claves para crear una empresa en España siendo Extranjero
Obligaciones de comunicación en extranjería: lo que tu empresa y trabajadores no pueden descuidar
¿Qué permiso necesito para iniciar mi proyecto en España?
EXPERTOS EN GESTIÓN DE VISADOS
- Desarrollar actividades laborales sin tener el preceptivo visado está perseguido por la legislación y puede generar graves perjuicios a la compañía local. Además, gestionar un visado sin tener los conocimientos adecuados puede acarrear retrasos inesperados, problemas a la entrada e incluso la perdida del importe de las tasas.
Artículos relacionados
¿Sueñas con emprender en España? Requisitos claves para crear una empresa en España siendo Extranjero
La autorización de residencia no lucrativa: alternativa a la eliminación de la Golden Visa en España
Todos los requisitos para contratar trabajadores extranjeros en España: Cómo cumplir con la normativa y evitar sanciones
La “ Ley Beckham” o “Ley de impatriados”
