Spain has become a strategic destination for international entrepreneurs, thanks to favourable legislation and a constantly evolving business ecosystem. The entrepreneur residency in Spain, regulated by the Entrepreneurs Law 14/2013, allows foreign citizens to develop innovative projects that have a tangible economic impact in the country. In this article, we explain step by step how to access this unique opportunity.

 

 

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What is considered an entrepreneurial activity?

According to current regulations, a project is considered entrepreneurial if:

  • It is innovative or has special economic interest for Spain.
  • It receives a favourable report from ENISA (National Innovation Company), which assesses the project’s viability and impact.

How is a project assessed as entrepreneurial?

Three aspects are evaluated:

  • The entrepreneur’s profile. This includes education, experience, and involvement in the project. If there are several partners, the involvement of each is assessed (even if not all apply for a visa).
  • The business plan. This must include a description of the project, the product or service, and its funding mechanism (how much is needed and where the money will come from).
  • The added value for Spain. Authorities assess whether the project contributes to the economy, brings innovation, or creates new investment opportunities.

 

How to apply for entrepreneur residency in Spain

The application is submitted to the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE), along with the required documentation (valid passport, criminal record certificate, and other specific documents). This unit has a 20-working-day deadline to issue a decision. Applications are processed electronically. The procedure differs depending on whether you are inside or outside Spain at the time of application:

If you are outside Spain:

You must apply for an entrepreneur residency visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country of origin.

If you are already legally in Spain:

You can apply directly to the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE). If your application is approved, no additional visa is required.
 

Permit duration and renewal

  • Initial duration: 3 years.
  • Renewal: for an additional 2 years, provided you can prove that you are still running your business activity in Spain. To renew your residency, you must show that you are registered with Spanish Social Security.

 

Residency for family members

One of the key benefits of this law is that your dependent adult children who have not formed their own family unit may apply for a residence permit as dependents. This allows them to legally live in Spain with you. The application can be submitted jointly, simultaneously, or afterward.

Entrepreneur residency in Spain

 

Key advantages under the Entrepreneurs Law

Law 14/2013 not only facilitates residency but also offers benefits such as:

  • Fast-track processing: decision within 20 working days.
  • Online application with no need to leave the country.
  • Joint residence permits for family members.
  • Possibility to work and access the European market from Spain.

Frequently asked questions about entrepreneur residency in Spain

Can I apply if my project hasn’t launched yet? Yes. What matters is having a viable business plan and a favourable report from ENISA. The project does not need to be operating at the time of application.
How long does it take to get a decision?
The official deadline is 20 working days, though this may vary depending on the volume of applications. If there is no response within 20 days, the application is considered approved by positive administrative silence.

What if my application is rejected?
You have the right to submit claims or appeal the decision through administrative channels.

Can I work while waiting for the decision?
You cannot start economic activity until your application is approved. However, you can prepare everything while you wait. During the first six months of residency, your passport is sufficient to register with Social Security.

Is there a minimum investment required?
There is no official minimum, but the project must demonstrate viability and the ability to sustain itself in the medium term.

Can my children study in Spain if they get residency?
Yes. Dependent children can access the Spanish education system without restrictions.

 

✅​ How Adlanter supports you

Starting a business in a new country is no easy task. At Adlanter, we guide entrepreneurs through every stage of the process—from validating the project to preparing the ENISA report and submitting the residency application.
With our expert team, you’ll move forward with confidence, reduce errors, and increase your chances of success.

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