Residency in Spain through startup participation
- Cost: from EUR 11,000
- Processing time: from 3 months
- Validity: 3 years, with the option to extend
- Participation in a ready-to-go startup
Unlock your options — consult with an expert today
About the program
The Startup Visa program in Spain grants residency to entrepreneurs with innovative projects, enabling them to scale their business within the EU through Barcelona and Madrid’s technology hubs.
Applicants receive a 3-year residence card with the right to work, operate a business, and travel freely within the Schengen Area. The program also allows for family members to obtain residency. Once the business plan is approved by the ENISA committee, the residence permit is issued promptly, with a minimum annual income requirement of 7,200 EUR. After 5 years of residency, permanent residency (PR) becomes available.
Advantages of residency in Spain
A 3-year residency
The Startup Visa grants residency in Spain for 3 years, with the option to extend every 2 years. The program provides access to the Single European Market and accelerates business scaling. Investors benefit from stability without annual checks.
Freedom to travel and do business across Europe
Residency does not require full-time presence in Spain: you may stay up to 90 days within 180 in the Schengen Zone. Travel freely for meetings and deals while maintaining flexible business management.
A gateway to the European market
The residence permit removes barriers for working across 29 Schengen countries. Participate in exhibitions, conferences, and build your professional network across the continent without visa restrictions.
Fast-track to EU citizenship
After 5 years, permanent residency becomes available; after 10 years, citizenship is possible. Simplified naturalization for entrepreneurs grants a second passport and full EU rights.
Equal-rights family residency
The permit extends to spouses, children up to 26 years, and dependent parents. All family members enjoy equal rights to work, education, and healthcare.
European-level social protection
Residents access healthcare, pensions, and scholarships according to EU standards. Free medical care is available for all family members, along with educational grants for children.
Premium lifestyle
Spain offers world-class healthcare (ranked 9th globally), prestigious universities, and advanced infrastructure. Relocate to Barcelona or Madrid with access to golf clubs and yacht marinas.
Banking and financial benefits
Residency allows opening accounts with BBVA and Santander, taking advantage of the Beckham Law tax regime, and accessing low-interest loans. Investors enjoy benefits when managing funds and assets.
Opportunities for Startup Visa holders
Get your guide to Spanish residency via startup
- Step-by-step process for applicants
- Detailed requirements and costs
- Ready-to-use strategy for obtaining a residence permit
- Updated 2025 program
Get your guide to Spanish residency via startup
Apply for a Startup Visa in Spain for 3 years
- Start and run your business while living in Europe
- Includes residency for your spouse and children
- Pathway to citizenship in 10 years
Unlock your options — consult with an expert today
Requirements for applicants
Main applicant (entrepreneur/startup founder)
- No criminal record
- Proof of funds from EUR 7,200/year
Spouse
- Registered marriage with main applicant
- No criminal record
Children
- Up to 26 years old
- Financially dependent on the main applicant or enrolled in higher education
Who is eligible for the program
- Families seeking a European future
- Businesses aiming for international growth
- IT entrepreneurs and digital innovators
- Top managers and global professionals
Families seeking a European future
Spanish residency provides children with access to high-quality European education, while offering the whole family healthcare, social benefits, and a comfortable life under the Mediterranean sun.
Businesses aiming for international growth
For companies looking to expand beyond local markets, Spanish residency serves as a legal gateway to the EU and access to over 450 million consumers.
IT entrepreneurs and digital innovators
The program enables the legal launch of tech projects and helps connect with partners and investors within Spain’s vibrant startup ecosystem.
Top managers and global professionals
Spanish residency allows you to live and work legally in the country while enjoying free movement across the Schengen area for meetings, negotiations, and participation in European events.
Step-by-step plan for obtaining residency
Step-by-step plan for obtaining residency
Personal consultation with a specialist
1 day
The Mirsatori team prepares a business plan for an innovative project in full compliance with the requirements and standards of the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA). Once ready, the document is sent to ENISA for an official opinion on the startup's prospects.
Learn moreObtaining the Spanish visa
1 month
Mirsatori lawyers submit your D visa application to the Spanish consulate. Approval takes around 10 days, and the visa is issued for 1 year with entry rights. This stage includes appointment booking and document translation.
Learn moreDocument preparation and submission to government authorities
1–2 months
Upon arrival in Spain, documents are submitted to the UGE (Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration), and ENISA reviews the business plan. Biometric registration and an interview are scheduled at the UGE. Mirsatori lawyers oversee the process until a positive decision is issued.
Learn moreReceiving the Spanish residence permit
1–2 months
After document verification, the 3-year Startup Visa card is issued, granting the right to work and run a business in the EU from day one. The card can be renewed for 2 years without leaving Spain.
Learn moreComparative analysis of residency through startup programs
Category
Spanish RP
French RP
Duration of status
3 years
4 years
For the whole family
yes
yes
Processing time
from 3 months
from 6 months
Tax on worldwide income
from 19%
from 0%
Capital gains tax
from 19%
19%
Inheritance tax
from 7.65%
from 5%
Waiting period for citizenship
10 years
5 years
Get a personalized strategy for obtaining Spanish residency
A Mirsatori specialist will create a personalized residency application plan for you, providing a detailed step-by-step analysis that considers your family composition, verified foreign income, and all related expenses.
Get your strategy
Get a personalized strategy for obtaining Spanish residency
Your path to Spanish citizenship
Your path to Spanish citizenship
Premium concierge support in Spain
Upon obtaining a residence permit in Spain, you will receive personalized support from Mirsatori and access to premium services for a smooth adaptation in one of Europe’s most desirable countries:
- Individual assistance with opening accounts in Spanish and European banks, as well as leading fintech platforms.
- Consultations on personal finance management, investments, and maintaining non-resident tax status.
- Support in renting or purchasing exclusive properties along the coast or in major cities.
- Legal assistance in obtaining a Spanish and European driver’s license.
- Organization of admissions for children into private schools and international educational institutions in Spain.
FAQ
What are the requirements for a startup project to obtain a Spanish residence permit?
The startup must be innovative, unique, and scalable according to ENISA criteria, create jobs, and contribute to the economy. The project is evaluated by ENISA and should belong to priority sectors such as IT, biotechnology, or green technologies.
How long does the process of obtaining a residence permit through a startup take?
The process takes approximately three months: the D visa is issued within 10 days, submission to the UGE takes about a month, and the residence card up to two months. With support from Mirsatori, the entire procedure typically takes around 90 days.
Can I work as an employee in Spain with a Startup Visa?
Yes, the Startup Visa allows you to combine running your startup with employment or freelance work in the EU. The main requirement is that the startup continues to develop. The residence permit grants freedom of movement across 45+ countries, including Schengen states, and additional income does not affect your startup status.
What amount of financial support must be confirmed?
Applicants must demonstrate a minimum of EUR 7,200 per year, plus 50% for each family member. Funds must remain in the account for at least 3 months and cannot be used for investments. Proof can be provided via a bank statement or a sponsorship letter.
Can the Startup Visa be extended, and does it lead to Spanish citizenship?
The residence permit can be renewed every 2 years if the business grows and tax obligations are met. After 5 years, permanent residency is available, and after 10 years, EU citizenship can be applied for. Integration into society and knowledge of the Spanish language are required.
Get expert guidance on your case
Schedule a meeting with our specialists, in-office or online, and receive a tailored case analysis, a clear cost estimate, and the best solution to achieve your goals. Fill out the form to schedule a meeting in the office or online
+971 52 96 46 823
