How to Obtain a Startup Visa for Spain

The Startup Visa in Spain is a key instrument for entrepreneurs looking to grow their business in the country. This visa allows foreign investors and entrepreneurs to live and work in Spain — an important step toward developing an international business while discovering a new country and combining work with leisure. The main advantage of the Startup Visa is the opportunity to legalize your stay in Spain, providing stability and the chance to fully invest in the development of your project. Entrepreneurs arriving under this visa also receive tax benefits for the first four years — a 15% corporate tax rate instead of 25%, with deferred initial payments of 6–12 months. These conditions allow for faster and more efficient business growth. Such incentives make the Startup Visa an attractive choice for international entrepreneurs looking to launch a successful venture in Europe.

What Is a Startup Visa?

A startup (from the English “start-up” – to launch) is a company with limited operational history and initial investment that has the potential for rapid development and profitability. Such projects typically emerge from the innovative ideas of their founders and offer a fresh perspective on familiar products or services. The Startup Visa for Spain is a type of national visa and residence permit designed for entrepreneurs who want to launch a new business or relocate their existing one. Its main goal is to attract talented entrepreneurs who can contribute to the country’s economic growth. This program was launched in 2013 and is governed by Law 14/2013 “on the support of entrepreneurs and their internationalization.” Thanks to this law, Spain has gained a valuable tool to attract entrepreneurs who help strengthen the country's position in the European and global economy.

Advantages of the Startup Visa in Spain

1. Right to live and work in the country. Entrepreneurs can relocate to Europe and obtain Spanish residency through the startup route, opening broad opportunities for market expansion and international partnerships.
2. Tax incentives and payment deferrals. Startup owners benefit from a reduced tax rate of 15% for the first four years. Additionally, tax payments can be deferred: the first year’s tax can be paid 12 months later, and the second year’s — 6 months later. This eases financial pressure during the initial stages of business development.
3. Business plan as the core requirement. Applicants are not required to have a working product or invest in Spanish assets. The business plan plays a critical role. A well-crafted plan with clear goals, a strategy, and risk assessment increases the chances of receiving startup residency in Spain.
4. Right to family reunification. Startup visa holders can bring their family members, who will also have the right to live and work in Spain. This supports family well-being, a key factor in relocating abroad.
5. Possibility to apply for startup residency directly from Spain, having entered on a Schengen visa or visa-free passport.

Requirements for the Startup Project

To be eligible for the Startup Visa in Spain, the business plan must meet several criteria:

• The project should positively impact Spain’s economic development — for example, by stimulating growth, increasing exports, attracting investment, or fostering innovation in any industry. Standard services like trucking or beauty salons are unlikely to be approved.
• It is a strong advantage if the startup contributes to the scientific or technological advancement of the country. The project should present unique ideas and solutions that support the growth of science, technology, or industry.
• The commission will also consider the potential for local job creation. The business plan should address its impact on the local labor market and economic development.
• Finally, the startup team’s qualifications will be assessed. Founders must demonstrate the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to successfully run the business and address challenges in their field.

Applicant Requirements

1. Minimum age: 18 years. Applicants must be of legal age to apply for a Spanish visa.
2. Passport and NIE. A foreigner’s identification number (NIE) is required for the visa application, though it is not mandatory when applying directly for residency from within Spain.
3. Clean legal and immigration record. Applicants must pass a background check. If a person has violated visa rules, Spain will not authorize them to launch a business in the country.
4. Full medical insurance. A valid insurance policy is required, covering all medical services throughout Spain.
5. Sufficient financial means. The applicant must have a minimum amount of money in a bank account outside of Russia or Belarus to support themselves during their stay. The law requires:
   • €31,752 for the applicant;
   • €11,907 for the first family member;
   • €3,969 for each additional family member.These figures may vary year by year.

These requirements are designed to ensure compliance with Spanish business regulations and to protect the interests of both applicants and the local population.

The Visa Application Process

Startup Concept.

The future entrepreneur must deeply explore their project, define its concept, and develop a growth strategy.

Writing a Business Plan.

A detailed business plan of 20–50 pages must be prepared in English or Spanish. This includes market analysis, economic forecasts, and a marketing strategy.

Submission to ENISA.

The next step is submitting the business plan and supporting documents to a special committee (ENISA) that evaluates and approves startups in Spain.

Collecting Required Documents.

The applicant must prepare the necessary documents for submission to either the consulate (for a national visa) or to the Spanish Migration Office "UGE-CE" (for direct residence permit applications). These documents include a valid passport, criminal record certificate, bank statement, proof of medical insurance, proof of fee payments, and more. Personal documents must be submitted for each family member accompanying the applicant.

Submitting the Application.

The applicant sends the compiled documents to the relevant authority and waits for a response within 20 business days. If additional documents are requested, they must be submitted promptly.

Obtaining a Residence Card.

Once approved, the applicant must make an appointment to submit fingerprints at a Spanish police station in order to receive their resident card for legal residence in the country.

Timeline and Costs for Obtaining a Startup Visa

The full process—from gathering documents to receiving the residence permit—takes approximately 4 months. More specifically:

1. About 3 weeks are needed to prepare the business plan.
2. Another 3 weeks are required for its evaluation.
3. 1 month for receiving a response from the consulate or migration office.
4. Approximately 1.5 months to finalize the residence card.

Expect to spend around €2,000 for professional assistance in preparing the business plan and handling other parts of the application. In addition, as mentioned earlier, the applicant must show proof of funds: just over €31,000 for their own living expenses for one year, about €12,000 for the first family member, and €4,000 for each additional person. (These figures may vary slightly depending on the year.) Business-related expenses will vary greatly depending on the nature of the declared activity.

Documents Required for Startup Residence Permit Application

1. Passport. All pages must be scanned and must show an entry stamp into Spain or the Schengen Area.
2. Bank Statement. Must show sufficient funds, translated into Spanish (any certified online service may be used).
3. Proof of Spanish Health Insurance. Must confirm full coverage in Spain.
4. Application Form. Submitted to the Ministry of Migration (UGE-CE).
5. Criminal Record Certificate. For each adult family member, with apostille and an official translation by a certified provider. It must be issued within the last 6 months.
6. Marriage and Birth Certificates. If the applicant is traveling with their family. If issued outside Russia, these documents must also have an apostille and official (consular or sworn) translation.
7. Payment Receipts. Proof of payment for all applicable fees.
8. Photographs. One photo for each person applying for a residence card.

Applying for a startup visa in Spain requires a serious and responsible approach. However, when all the steps are carefully followed, it provides an excellent opportunity to launch your business and relocate to Europe. This visa offers legal residence and work rights, access to tax benefits, and entry into the European market. When applying for a startup visa, it’s essential to thoroughly study all the requirements and submit a complete set of documents. Special attention should be given to crafting the startup’s business plan, as it plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. Working with consultants from the "El Relocador" service can greatly simplify the preparation process. We are ready to provide professional support at every stage of applying for a startup visa to Spain. Our experienced specialists will help you properly complete each step and secure approval with a 98% success rate. The El Relocador team has compiled detailed information about the Startup Residence Permit in an informative guide.