Unlocking Spain's Market with the Entrepreneur Visa: A Guide for Aspiring Business Owners

2024-11-29 12:09:10

For non-EU citizens with a groundbreaking business idea, the Spanish Entrepreneur Visa offers a unique pathway to start a business and settle in Spain. Designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs, this visa enables individuals to establish and grow a business in Spain while benefiting from the country’s dynamic market, strategic location, and rich entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

 

Why Choose the Entrepreneur Visa?

The Entrepreneur Visa is crafted for non-EU entrepreneurs with innovative, unique business plans, established business owners eager to expand, or startups seeking entry into the Spanish or broader European markets. This visa has an initial duration of two years, giving entrepreneurs ample time to establish their businesses in Spain. Nonetheless, the Entrepreneur Visa can be renewed for another two years if the business proves to be a success. This visa can ultimately serve as a stepping stone toward long-term residency and even citizenship, making it an excellent option for those planning to invest in Spain's economy and culture.

 

Who is the Entrepreneur Visa For?

The Entrepreneur Visa is open to various profiles, including:

 

  • Aspiring Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas, such as tech startups, sustainable initiatives, or unique service providers.
  • Established Business Owners seeking to expand their operations into Spain.
  • Startups looking to leverage Spain’s growing tech and business-friendly environment for their European presence.

 

Key Requirements and Documentation for the Spanish Entrepreneur Visa

To apply, the following documents are necessary:

 

  1. National Visa Form and Passport: All applicants will need to fill out the National Visa Form (National Visa Form) and provide a passport that is valid for at least one year, along with two recent passport-sized photos.
  2. Innovative Business Proposal: A core requirement is a favorable report from ENISA (Empresa Nacional de Innovación, S.A.), certifying the project’s innovative potential. This report is obtained through Spain's Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit and is critical in showcasing the business’s unique value. If you have more questions about the business proposal, please check out our Entrepreneur visa page. 
  3. Financial Means: Proof of sufficient funds to support both the applicant and any accompanying family members is mandatory. Applicants must show personal or regular income sources equivalent to 100% of Spain’s IPREM (Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator), with an additional 50% for each dependent. Foreign documents should be legalized or apostilled and, if needed, translated into Spanish. The applicant should look into the specific translation requirements from the embassy in which they are applying from. 
  4. Background Check: A criminal background check from the applicant’s country of residence is required, covering the past five years of residency. This document should be translated into Spanish, with a maximum validity of six months before the application date.
  5. Proof of Residence and Representation: Proof of residence within the consular district that the applicant is applying from. For example, this could be your driver’s license. 
  6. Visa Fee: The application requires a payment of the visa fee that varies depending upon the applicant’s nationality. 

 

Although this visa is one of the more involved visas to apply for, Spain’s Entrepreneur Visa is an excellent option for those ready to bring fresh ideas to the Spanish market. With the proper planning, resources, and an innovative approach, the Entrepreneur Visa can serve as a vital tool to establish a successful business in Spain and open doors to new markets.