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Everything You Need to Know to Work as a Self-Employed in Spain
If you are a non-EU citizen and wish to start your own business or work as a freelancer in Spain, you need to apply for a self-employed residence and work permit. This guide explains the requirements, application process, and key details to successfully obtain this permit in 2025.
What is the Self-Employed Residence Permit?
The self-employed residence permit is a temporary residence authorization that allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain and operate a business or work as a freelancer.
- Initial validity: 1 year
- Renewal possibility: Up to 4 years
- Requires a business plan and proof of economic viability
This permit is different from the entrepreneur visa, which is for innovative businesses with high technological value.
Who Can Apply?
Non-EU citizens who want to work as self-employed professionals in Spain
Over 18 years old
Not residing illegally in Spain
No criminal record in the last five years
A viable business plan
Sufficient investment to launch the business
Relevant qualifications or work experience
Financial resources to support yourself
Where to Apply?
Your application process depends on your location.
From your home country:
✔️ Submit your application at the Spanish consulate in your country.
✔️ This is the most common and recommended process.
From Spain (exceptional cases only):
✔️ If you already hold a legal residence permit in Spain.
✔️ If you are modifying an existing residence permit.
You cannot apply for this permit from Spain if you are in an irregular situation.
What are the process
Application Process Process to Obtain a Self-Employed Residency in Spain
1. Prepare your documents
Gather all the required paperwork, including a business plan approved by a recognized institution such as the Association of Self-Employed Workers (ATA).
2. Submit your application
At the Spanish consulate in your home country.
3. Application processing
4. Enter Spain
Travel to Spain within three months of visa approval
5. Spanish Social Security
Register as self-employed (autónomo) with Social Security and Tax authorities.
6. Obtaining a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
If approved, you must request your TIE card within one month.
What are the requirements
Eligibility Requirements for the Job Search Residence Permit
Important: Foreign documents must be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator and legalized or apostilled under The Hague Convention. Register as self-employed (autónomo) with Social Security and Tax authorities. Failing to submit any of these documents may result in rejection.
Hold a valid student residence permit
You must have a valid student residence permit in Spain at the time of application.
Completed a university degree
Your qualification must be at least Level 6 under the European Qualifications Framework, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD.
No criminal record
You must have no criminal record in Spain or any previous countries of residence.
Valid health insurance
You must have public or private medical insurance that is valid in Spain.
Medical certificate
In specific cases
Sufficient financial means
You need to prove that you have enough financial resources to support yourself in Spain (100% of the IPREM monthly).
Not in an irregular situation
You must not be in Spain illegally at the time of application.
Passport
Valid passport (with at least 12 months of validity)
Application form
EX-01 application form, completed and signed
Payment of administrative fee
Make It Easy with Us!
At Fuster & Associates, we take care of all the paperwork, making it easy for you to obtain your Job Search Residence Permit in Spain. Our team of experts will guide you step by step, ensuring a smooth, fast, and error-free process so you can focus on your future.
✉️ Contact us today and start living your new life in Spain with all the legal peace of mind you need.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the job search residence permit in Spain valid?
It is valid for up to 24 months, with no possibility of extension.
Can I work with this residence permit?
No. The residence permit for job search in Spain does not authorize employment. If you secure a job, you must apply for a work permit.
Can I switch to a work permit once I find a job?
Yes. If you find a job related to your field of study, you can apply for a work and residence permit. There are two main options:
- Work permit as an employee: Your employer will process the work authorization.
- Self-employed work permit: If you start a business, you must submit a business plan.
Can I apply for an entrepreneur residence permit instead?
Yes, but for the Entrepreneur Visa, your business must be innovative and scalable, meeting the Entrepreneurs Law requirements.
What happens if I don’t find a job within 24 months?
You must either leave Spain or apply for another type of residence permit if eligible.
Can I leave Spain and return while holding this permit?
Yes, but you must comply with entry requirements and ensure your permit is still valid when you return.
How long does the application process take?
It takes 20 business days to receive a decision. If no response is given within this period, the application is considered approved by positive administrative silence.
What happens if I apply after my student visa expires?
If you submit the application after the allowed period, you may face penalties or rejection.