Autonomo Visa Spain – Self-Employed Residency Program

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Autonomo Visa Spain – Self-Employed Residency Program

Live and Work Legally in Spain as an Independent Professional or Business Owner

The Autonomo Visa Spain allows non-EU nationals to legally establish and operate a business in Spain under the Spanish Self-Employed Residency Program.

In this guide, you will learn the exact eligibility requirements, financial criteria, application steps, and common reasons for refusal.

What Is the Spanish Self-Employed (Autónomo) Visa?

The Self-Employed Visa is a Spanish residence and work authorization that allows non-EU nationals to:

  • Reside in Spain, and
  • Carry out an independent economic or professional activity legally

This program is suitable for individuals who want to actively operate a business, offer professional services, or work as freelancers within Spain’s legal framework and explore other Spanish residency programs available to non-EU nationals.

Who Is This Program For?

The Self-Employed Visa is ideal for:

  • Entrepreneurs launching a business in Spain
  • Freelancers and consultants
  • Independent professionals (IT, marketing, design, coaching, engineering, etc.)
  • Small business owners and service providers
  • Professionals transferring or expanding an existing international business into Spain

Key Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Spain’s Self-Employed Residency, applicants must generally meet the following criteria:

✔ Business Activity & Viability

  • A clear and lawful business activity permitted in Spain
  • A viable business plan demonstrating economic sustainability
  • Evidence that the activity will generate sufficient income

✔ Professional Qualifications

  • Relevant education, licenses, or professional experience
  • Proof of capability to perform the proposed activity

✔ Financial Capacity

  • Sufficient funds to:
  • Invest in or launch the business, and
  • Support yourself (and dependants, if applicable)

✔ Legal & Health Requirements

  • Clean criminal record
  • Private or public health insurance valid in Spain
  • Medical certificate confirming good health

Residency Duration & Renewals

  • Initial residence & work permit: 1 year
  • First renewal: 2 years
  • Second renewal: 2 years

After 5 years of continuous legal residence, applicants may be eligible to apply for:

  • Long-term permanent residency in Spain

nsiderations

  • Applicants are expected to reside primarily in Spain
  • Spending more than 183 days per year may result in Spanish tax residency
  • Self-employed individuals are subject to Spanish tax and social security obligations

Application Process – How We Support You

At True Pearl Visa Services Inc., we provide structured guidance throughout the process:

  • Eligibility & Business Assessment
    Review of your background, activity, and business concept
  • Business Plan Coordination
    Assistance in structuring a compliant and viable business plan
  • Document Preparation
    Financial evidence, qualifications, insurance, and legal documents
  • Application Strategy & Submission
    Coordinated filing through the appropriate Spanish authorities
  • Renewals & Long-Term Planning
    Ongoing guidance toward renewals and permanent residency

Important Notes

  • The Self-Employed Visa requires active business activity in Spain
  • Compliance with tax, social security, and residency rules is essential
  • Business viability is a key factor in approval and renewals

Why Choose True Pearl Visa Services Inc.?

  • Experience with European residency and entrepreneur pathways
  • Clear, transparent, and client-focused guidance
  • Strategic coordination with licensed professionals
  • Compliance-driven approach to long-term success

We do not provide legal advice where local licensing is required, but we work closely with authorized professionals to ensure applications are properly structured and compliant.

For a full overview of all legal pathways, visit our Immigrate to Spain page.

For a detailed breakdown of documents, financial proof, and eligibility criteria, read our complete guide on Autonomo Visa Spain Requirements.

FAQ – Spanish Self-Employed (Autónomo) Visa

What is the Spanish Self-Employed (Autónomo) Visa?

The Spanish Self-Employed Visa is a residency and work authorization that allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain and legally operate an independent professional activity or business.

Who is this visa best for?

This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, freelancers, consultants, and professionals who want to legally work for themselves in Spain and can demonstrate a viable business plan.

What are the key eligibility requirements?

Applicants must generally provide:

  • A viable business plan

  • Relevant qualifications or experience

  • Sufficient financial capacity

  • Clean criminal record

  • Valid health insurance

Do I need a Spanish business plan?

Yes. A clear and realistic business plan is usually required to demonstrate that the proposed activity is lawful and economically sustainable.

How long does the process take?

Processing times vary depending on the consulate and case complexity. However, applicants should prepare documents carefully to avoid delays.

Can True Pearl Visa help with the application?

Yes. We guide applicants through eligibility assessment, document preparation, and application structuring in coordination with authorized professionals.

Start Your Self-Employed Residency in Spain

If you are considering applying for the Spanish Self-Employed (Autónomo) Visa, our team can guide you through eligibility assessment, business plan structuring, and application preparation.

Learn more about immigrating to Spain through our complete program overview.