Entrepreneurship
Self-Employment Visa (Visado por Cuenta Propia)
For freelancers, entrepreneurs, and self-employed professionals who want to work independently or start a business in Spain.
Who is this visa for?
Ideal for
- Freelancers planning to work with Spanish clients
- Entrepreneurs starting a business in Spain
- Self-employed professionals relocating their practice
- People investing in and running a small business
Not suitable for
- EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens (no visa required)
- Remote workers for non-Spanish employers (see Digital Nomad Visa)
- People with a job offer from a Spanish company (see Work Visa)
- Anyone without a viable business plan or professional track record
Key requirements
Business plan
Detailed plan showing viability, market analysis, and projected financials
Professional qualifications
Relevant degree, certification, or demonstrable experience
Financial means
Sufficient funds to support yourself and cover business startup costs
Health insurance
Full coverage, no copays, Spanish-authorized provider
Criminal record
Clean background from countries lived in past 5 years
Timeline
Estimated total: 3-6 months
Prepare business plan
2-4 weeksDraft a comprehensive business plan including market analysis, financial projections, and proof that your activity will benefit Spain's economy.
Gather & apostille documents
2-4 weeksCollect all required documents including criminal background check, professional qualifications, and have them apostilled and officially translated into Spanish.
Apply at consulate
1-2 weeksBook and attend an appointment at your nearest Spanish consulate with your business plan and all supporting documents.
Wait for approval
Up to 3 monthsThe consulate and Spanish authorities review your business plan and application. You may be asked for additional documentation.
Travel and register in Spain
Within 30 days of arrivalEnter Spain, register at your local town hall (empadronamiento), apply for your TIE card, and register as autónomo with the Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) and Social Security.
Document checklist
Business documents
- Detailed business plan with financial projections
- Proof of professional qualifications or experience
- Proof of financial means (savings, investments, or funding)
- Market analysis showing viability in Spain
Personal documents
- Valid passport (6+ months remaining)
- Completed visa application form (national visa)
- 2 recent passport photos (white background, 32x26mm)
- Criminal background check (apostilled and translated)
- Medical certificate
Insurance & Housing
- Private health insurance policy (full coverage, no copays)
- Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental contract, booking, or property deed)
After arrival
- Register at town hall (empadronamiento)
- Apply for TIE card within 30 days
- Register as autónomo with Agencia Tributaria
- Register with Social Security (RETA)
- Open a Spanish bank account
Official resources
Other visa types
Not the right fit? Compare other Spanish visa pathways.
Employment
Work Visa
For non-EU nationals with a job offer from a Spanish employer. Your employer must sponsor the application and prove no suitable EU candidate was available.
Remote Work
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies or freelancers with international clients who want to live and work from Spain.
Financial Independence
Non-Lucrative Visa
For retirees and financially independent people who want to live in Spain without working, funded by savings, pensions, or passive income.
Family Sponsorship
Family Reunification
For legal residents in Spain who want to sponsor their spouse, children, or dependent parents to join them.
Education
Student Visa
For non-EU nationals enrolled in a recognized Spanish educational institution, including universities, language schools, and postgraduate programs.