SIf you are developing an innovative entrepreneurial project with significant economic potential for Spain, you may be eligible for the Entrepreneur Work Permit. This permit allows foreign entrepreneurs to establish and run their business ventures in Spain, while also providing access to the European market.
What is the Entrepreneur Work Permit in Spain?
The Entrepreneur Work Permit is designed for non-EU citizens who wish to launch a business project in Spain that offers an innovative or strategic contribution to the country’s economy. Whether you are inside or outside Spain, there are options available to help you obtain this permit and begin your entrepreneurial journey.
| APPLICATION | FAMILY | PROCESSING | STAY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENTREPRENEURS | Can be applied from Spain as a tourist | Includes family members, who will also receive a work permit. | 20 days | Initially granted for three years, renewable every two years thereafter. |
| SELF-EMPLOYED | Must apply from the Spanish Consulate abroad or after one year of residence in Spain | Family can only be included after one year of holding the permit | 3-5 months | Initially granted for one year, with a renewal granting 4 years |
Who Can Apply for the Entrepreneur Work Permit?
This work permit is available to individuals who wish to establish a business of special economic interest in Spain. There are two pathways depending on where you are located:
- Entrepreneur Visa: If you are outside Spain and need to travel to start the necessary procedures, you can apply for a visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence.
- Entrepreneur Residency Authorization: If you are already legally in Spain, you can apply directly for the residency authorization at the Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Sectors (UGE-CE).
Key Requirements for the Entrepreneur Work Permit
To be eligible for this work permit, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Business Plan: You must submit a comprehensive business plan detailing your project, including its potential economic impact, the number of jobs it could create, and your market and financial strategies.
- Professional Profile: Your qualifications, professional experience, and involvement in the project will be evaluated to determine your capacity to carry out the business.
- Personal Documentation: You will need to provide:
- A valid passport.
- Health insurance with coverage in Spain.
- A certificate of no criminal record from the past five years.
- Proof of financial resources to support yourself and your family during your stay in Spain.
How to Apply for the Entrepreneur Work Permit in Spain
The application process depends on whether you are inside or outside Spain:
- If you are outside Spain: You will need to apply for the Entrepreneur Visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country. Your business plan and professional profile will be evaluated to determine the viability of your project.
- If you are already in Spain: You can apply for the Entrepreneur Residency Authorization at the UGE-CE. Your project will undergo an assessment to confirm its alignment with Spain’s economic and innovation goals.
Documents Required for the Entrepreneur Work Permit Application
To ensure a smooth application process, it’s essential to gather all the required documents, including:
- Valid passport.
- Health insurance valid in Spain.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Proof of financial resources: This can include bank statements or income certifications to demonstrate you can support yourself and your family.
- Business Plan: One of the most important documents for your application, providing a detailed overview of your business project.
- Favorable Report: If applying for a visa from outside Spain, you will need a favorable report from the Economic and Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy in your country of residence.
Evaluation of the Entrepreneurial Project
The General Directorate of International Trade and Investment will evaluate your project based on the following key aspects:
- Professional Profile: Your qualifications, experience, and direct involvement in the project will be assessed.
- Business Plan: This must include a detailed description of:
- The business activity, start date, location, and legal structure.
- The expected economic impact, including job creation and the business’s contribution to the Spanish economy.
- A comprehensive market analysis, identifying competitors and potential customers.
- Financing: A financial plan outlining the required investment, funding sources, and long-term financial stability.
- Innovation: Highlight the innovative aspects of your product or service and explain how it differs from existing offerings in the market.
- Economic Impact: Outline the potential for job creation and the contribution your project will make to strategic sectors in Spain.
Validity and Renewal of the Entrepreneur Work Permit
- Visa: Valid for 1 year.
- Initial Authorization: Valid for 2 years.
- Renewal: The authorization can be renewed for additional 2-year periods.
To renew your permit, you must demonstrate continued progress with your business project and provide updated documentation if necessary.
Can the Entrepreneur’s Family Accompany Them?
Yes, family members can accompany the entrepreneur to Spain. You can apply for their permits either at the same time or after your own application is approved. Eligible family members include:
- Spouse or registered partner.
- Children under 18 or older children who are financially dependent.
- Dependent parents.
Family members who obtain permits can also live and work in Spain.
Key Benefits and Considerations
- Fast Processing Times: Entrepreneur visas are processed within 10 days, and residency authorizations within 30 days.
- National Coverage: Both the visa and the residency authorization allow you and your family to live and work anywhere in Spain.
- Access to the EU Market: As a resident entrepreneur in Spain, you can expand your business throughout the European Union.