Self-Employed Residence in Spain
Preparation and support for self-employed residence applications, renewals and related modifications.
Quick answer
Initial self-employed residence allows a third-country national to carry out an independent economic or professional activity in Spain if the project, qualification and investment requirements are met.
Who may qualify
- Entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals planning activity in Spain.
- People with sufficient qualifications/experience and a viable activity project.
Main requirements
- Meet Spanish legal requirements for opening and operating the proposed activity.
- Have sufficient professional qualifications/experience and, where required, professional registration.
- Demonstrate sufficient investment and viability for the planned activity.
Documents
- Passport and application.
- Business plan/project description and evidence of the necessary investment.
- Qualification, licence and authorisation documents where required.
- Other activity-specific supporting evidence.
How the procedure works
- The initial application is filed personally through the competent Spanish consular office.
- After approval, the visa and entry into Spain are completed.
- Once the activity starts and the relevant registrations are made, the TIE is requested.
Frequently asked questions
Must I create a company?
Not necessarily. Self-employed residence can cover independent professional or business activity. The legal form depends on the project.
Is there a fixed minimum investment?
There is no single figure for every project; the authorities assess whether the planned investment is sufficient and the activity viable.
Official sources
Last reviewed: 20/08/2026
Residency and immigration services
Assistance with temporary residence and self-employed work authorisations in Spain.
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