Entrepreneur Visa Spain: Build your business, build your future

Some ideas are too important to stay on a whiteboard. Spain’s Entrepreneur Visa gives you a clear legal path to launch and grow your business while creating a life in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.

Spain has become a magnet for global talent, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The Spanish entrepreneur visa , part of Spain’s Law on Entrepreneurs and the recent Startup Act, allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain while building innovative businesses that generate economic and social value.

Whether you’re a solo founder, a small team, or a visionary entrepreneur ready to scale, this visa is designed to support you from day one — with a clear application process defined by Spanish authorities, family-friendly policies, and access to the European market. It also opens doors to Spain’s expanding network of accelerators, incubators, and investment funds, helping international entrepreneurs connect with local partners and investors.

Innovation meets opportunity.

Entrepreneur Visa Spain: Who it’s for

The Entrepreneur Visa Spain is ideal for:

Startup founders launching innovative projects
Entrepreneurs introducing disruptive products or services to the Spanish market
Small teams relocating to establish a European headquarters
Tech innovators, sustainability experts, and creators in knowledge-driven industries
Visionaries who want to combine professional ambition with a high quality of life

Key benefits of this visa include:

A fast-track visa process, with decisions often made in 60 business days or less
Permission to bring your spouse, children, and dependents under the same application
Access to Spain’s EU single market, connecting your business to over 500 million consumers
A pathway to permanent residency after five years
Supportive tax and labour laws under Spain’s Startup Act, designed to encourage foreign entrepreneurs
Eligibility to access certain tax benefits and reduced social security contributions in the early years of your business, making Spain a cost-effective base for scaling globally

What people say about us

Your foundation for success.

Entrepreneur Visa Spain Requirements

Your idea has potential — and your paperwork needs precision. Meeting the requirements ensures your project is ready for approval. To qualify for the entrepreneur visa Spain, you must meet the following criteria:

1. An innovative and scalable business plan

Your project must demonstrate:

Innovation in technology, process, or business model.
Potential for economic growth and job creation in Spain.
Feasibility and sustainability, backed by realistic market analysis and financial forecasts.

The business plan must be submitted to and validated by an official Spanish body such as ENISA (Empresa Nacional de Innovación) or a regional innovation agency. This step confirms that your idea meets Spain’s standards for entrepreneurial impact. This evaluation step is crucial — without it, your visa application will not move forward. Consider working with local advisors to ensure your plan meets Spanish standards for innovation and impact.

2. Financial resources

You must show proof of funds to:

Support the development of your business.
Cover personal and family living expenses.
Acceptable proof includes bank statements, investor agreements, venture capital commitments, or proof of existing revenue streams.

Pro tip: Spanish authorities value clarity — include a sworn translation of all financial documentation to avoid delays.

3. Health insurance

Private health insurance valid in Spain for yourself and any family members included in your application.

4. Clean criminal record

Certificates from your home country and any country where you’ve lived in the past five years.
These must be apostilled and sworn-translated into Spanish.

5. Proof of accommodation

Evidence of housing in Spain, such as a rental agreement or property ownership.

From idea to residency

Entrepreneur Visa: Spain Application Process

1. Prepare your business plan

Develop a detailed, well-structured plan with market research, projections, and a clear roadmap.
Submit it to ENISA or another recognised evaluation body for official approval.

2. Submit your visa application

Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country.
If you are legally in Spain (for example, on a tourist visa), you may apply directly through the Large Companies and Strategic Collectives Unit (UGE-CE).

3. Attend your appointment

Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
Submit originals and sworn translations of every document.

4. Wait for approval

Most applications are processed within 30–60 business days, making this one of Spain’s fastest residence permits.

5. Travel and register

Once approved, travel to Spain within the visa’s validity window.
Register at your local town hall (empadronamiento).
Apply for your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) within 30 days of arrival.

Best cities for entrepreneurs in Spain

Choosing the right location can shape the success of your venture.
Spain offers diverse ecosystems for different industries:

Barcelona: Tech startups, creative industries, and international networking

Madrid: Finance, corporate innovation, logistics, and AI

Valencia: Affordable living with a growing digital scene

Málaga: Tech parks and a dynamic quality of life

Bilbao: Sustainability, industrial innovation, and clean energy

Many regions also offer financial incentives such as startup grants or co-investment programmes. For example, Barcelona and Madrid host innovation hubs where international founders receive mentorship, funding advice, and access to global investor networks

Your questions, answered.

FAQ: Entrepreneur Visa Spain

Can I apply before registering my company in Spain?

Yes. The visa application is based on your approved business plan. Once approved, you can formally register your company in Spain.

Does my business have to be in technology?

No. While tech projects are common, creative industries, sustainability, education, and health sectors are equally welcome — as long as there is clear innovation.

Can my family join me?

Yes. Your spouse, children, and dependents can apply at the same time and receive linked residence permits.

How long is the visa valid?

The initial visa is typically granted for one to three years and is renewable if your business continues to meet the criteria.

What if my project changes direction?

Significant changes must be reported to Spanish authorities and may require updated documentation or business plan revisions.

The entrepreneur visa Spain is more than a permit — it’s a launchpad for your ideas and ambitions. With the right preparation and support, you can transform your vision into a thriving business while enjoying Spain’s exceptional lifestyle and European market access.

Whether you’re driven by innovation, impact, or the dream of a better life for your family, Spain offers the framework to make it happen — and Hisparos ensures your translated documents are precise, compliant, and ready for submission to the relevant authorities.