Startup permit
The Startup Permit in Spain is a residence and work authorization designed for non-EU entrepreneurs who want to establish an innovative, high-growth business in Spain. It allows founders to live and work in Spain while developing their startup, provided they meet specific criteria such as an approved business plan, financial resources, and endorsement from Spanish authorities. The permit is initially granted for three years, with the possibility of renewal.
Benefits
Opportunity to develop your business project
Allows you to develop your project in attractive for investment Spain, and then gives possibly to enter other European markets.
3 years initial residence in the country and visa-free travel
Gives the right to reside in Spain all year round, and freely travel throughout the Schengen Agreement.
Permanent Residence Permit
After five years, you have the opportunity to obtain a permanent residency
Citizenship
After 10 years of residence, you are eligible to apply for citizenship. In some cases, it can be applied for earlier.
Special Tax Regime
15% of income tax during the first 2 years. In some cases, founders are released from social security payments.
Fast process
Processing time is approx 3-4 weeks after submitting the application
To apply for permit you need to have
- Innovative Business PlanYour startup must be innovative and have scalable potential.
- EndorsementGet approval from ENISA (Empresa Nacional de Innovación) or a recognized authority.
- Financial ResourcesShow proof of sufficient funds to sustain yourself (€1,200+/month) and your business.
- No Criminal RecordProvide a police clearance certificate from the past five years.
- Valid Health InsuranceObtain private or public health coverage in Spain.
- Legal StayApply from Spain (as a legal resident) or from your home country.
- Business RegistrationIncorporate your startup in Spain.
FAQ
- Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas – projects in IT, ecology, medicine, and other advanced fields.
- Foreign citizens – outside the EU, wishing to start a business in Spain.
- Developers and investors – aiming to enter the European market.
- Startup teams – applications can be submitted as a group.
- Founders' families – spouses and children can also obtain residency.
- Savings from: €31.752 for founder, €11.907 for a spouse, €3.969 for a child.
- Innovative business project: your startup must be based on a unique idea capable of contributing to Spain's economic development, creating jobs, and introducing new technologies.
- Positive conclusion: the business plan must be approved by ENISA (Empresa Nacional de Innovación) or a recognized authority.
The initial resident permit will be for 3 years.
Yes, family members can accompany you if they meet the requirements. Spouses, unmarried partners, dependent children, and ascending relatives are considered.