Spain Self Employed Visa
Run your independent business or practice from one of Europe’s most attractive countries. Migrate Way guides non-EU freelancers and entrepreneurs through Spain’s self-employed residence route, from the business plan to your residence card.
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For Freelancers, Consultants and Small Business Owners
Spain’s self-employment residence authorisation, known as the autónomo route, lets non-EU nationals live in Spain while working for themselves. It is designed for freelancers, consultants and small business owners who want to build a client base in Spain itself.
Unlike remote work visas, this route is for people who will serve Spanish clients or run a Spanish-based business, so your plan needs to show real demand in your chosen region.
Why Work for Yourself in Spain?
Freedom to trade locally, a clear route to settlement and a lifestyle that is hard to beat.
Full Access to the Local Market
You can trade with Spanish clients, companies and consumers without needing an employer or sponsor.
Support for New Autónomos
New self-employed workers can benefit from reduced social security contributions in their first period. The terms are reviewed regularly, so we confirm the current rules.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse and children can usually apply for residence, with timing depending on the route.
A Route to Permanent Residence
After five years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residence, subject to the conditions.
Schengen Mobility
Your residence card lets you travel within the Schengen Area for short stays, subject to Schengen rules.
An Exceptional Lifestyle
Enjoy great weather, food, healthcare and a lower cost of living than much of Western Europe.
Do You Qualify? Key Requirements
There is no fixed investment amount. The authorities judge whether your plan is realistic, so your documents matter.
A Viable Business Plan
A detailed plan with financial forecasts, usually reviewed against local demand and your chosen province.
Sufficient Resources
Funds to invest in your business and support yourself while you grow. There is no single fixed figure, and we help you size it.
Qualifications and Licences
The degrees, professional registrations or licences needed for your activity, including recognition where required.
Clean Criminal Record
A criminal record certificate from your home country and places you recently lived, usually apostilled.
Health Insurance
Private health cover valid in Spain, typically without co-payments or deductibles.
Tax and Social Security Registration
After approval, you register as an autónomo with the tax agency and social security system.
Duration, Family and Long-Term Plans
The authorisation starts as a temporary permit and builds toward longer residence.
- The first authorisation is usually granted for one year
- Renewals are generally issued for two years while you keep meeting the conditions
- You are expected to hold the permit and to work in the activity you were approved for
- Permanent residence may be possible after five years of legal residence
- Citizenship is a separate, longer process that depends on your nationality
How It Works
Five clear stages, with Migrate Way beside you at every one.
Strategic Business Planning
We help you draft a comprehensive business plan and gather the supporting evidence that Spanish authorities expect.
Consulate Application
We prepare your application and guide you through submitting it through the Spanish consulate in your home country.
National Visa Collection
Once approved, you collect your national visa from the embassy, which gives you a limited window to enter Spain and start your residency.
Arrival and Local Registration
After you land, you register your address with the town hall and request your resident card.
Card and Business Setup
You attend your biometrics appointment for the card, and we point you to advisers for your tax and social security registration.
What We Handle for You
Business immigration is detailed and unforgiving. We take the guesswork out of it.
Eligibility Assessment
An honest view of your chances before you spend money on fees.
Business Plan Support
Guidance on a plan that shows demand in your chosen region.
Document Checklist
A tailored list of documents, apostilles and translations for you and your family.
Insurance Guidance
Advice on health cover that meets the strict no co-payment standard.
Pre-Submission Review
A final check of your complete file to catch errors that cause delays.
Post-Arrival Support
Help with your card, registrations and settling in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions we hear most about the Spain self-employed visa.
Can I work as an employee while holding a self-employed permit?
At first, no. The permit is specifically for self-employment. After a period of residence, you may be able to apply to change your status if you want to accept a traditional job, but this depends on the rules that apply at that time.
What happens to my family during the first year of residence?
Your spouse and children can usually apply to join you, but the timing depends on the route and the rules in force. We confirm the best sequence for your family before you apply.
Is there a minimum investment for the self-employed route?
There is no fixed minimum amount. You must show that your business plan is realistic and that you have enough resources to carry it out and support yourself, which we help you document.
How is this different from the digital nomad visa?
The digital nomad visa is for people who work remotely for clients outside Spain. The self-employed route is for people who will build a business or practice in Spain, mainly serving the Spanish market.
How long does the process take?
Timelines depend on the consulate and the Spanish authorities. We give you a realistic estimate once we know where you will apply.
Can I get permanent residence or citizenship?
After five years of legal residence, permanent residence may be possible. Citizenship generally takes longer, and the period depends on your nationality.
Do you guarantee approval?
No one can. The final decision rests with the Spanish authorities. What we do is make sure your application is complete, accurate and well prepared, which gives you the strongest possible chance.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Immigration rules, thresholds and social security terms change, so details should always be confirmed before you apply. Photos via Unsplash.
Ready to Start Your Business in Spain?
Tell us about your business and your plans, and we will let you know which route fits and what your next steps should be.