Route 01 of 06

Self-employment residency in Spain

If you want to work for yourself in Spain, this route gives you both residency and the right to work. We were the first firm in Iran to win this permit for our clients, and we stay with you from the business plan to registering your activity once you land.

Best for
Professionals, consultants, small business owners
Right to work
Yes, as self-employed
First permit
One year, then renewal
Family
Can join later
Self-employment residency in Spain: entrepreneur working in her Málaga studio

This route is for you if…

  • You have a skill or trade with a real market in Spain
  • You want to run your own work, not be employed
  • You have start-up capital and enough to live on for the first months
  • You are ready to carry out a genuine activity in Spain

Another route may suit you better if…

  • You do not plan to work and live on fixed income; the non-lucrative route is simpler
  • You work remotely for a company abroad; the digital nomad visa fits better
Requirements

What you will need

  1. A defensible business plan

    What you do, who your clients are, how much capital it takes and what you expect to earn. It has to be real and backed by numbers.

  2. Approval from an official association

    One of Spain’s recognised self-employment associations reviews the plan and reports that it is viable. This report carries real weight.

  3. Financial means

    You show the capital the business needs and enough to cover your own living costs until it pays.

  4. Qualifications and experience

    Regulated professions (medicine, engineering…) need their degree recognised. For others, relevant experience strengthens the file.

  5. Clean criminal record

    From Iran and any country you lived in during the last five years, translated and legalised.

Figures are based on official 2026 indices and change slightly each year. We calculate the exact amount for your case before you apply.

How it works

Step by step, together

  1. First conversation

    We look at your work, background and budget and tell you honestly whether this route works.

  2. Business plan

    We write the plan together and make the numbers hold up.

  3. Association report

    We submit the plan for review and obtain a favourable report.

  4. Visa application

    You file the complete case at the Spanish consulate.

  5. Starting in Spain

    On arrival we handle registration, your residence card and tax set-up.

Documents

Documents usually required

Every case has its own list. After our first conversation we give you the exact checklist for yours.

  • Valid passport with copies of all pages
  • Business plan and association report
  • Financial documents and bank statements
  • Degrees and work history
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Health insurance
  • Professional licences if required
Questions

What people often ask

How much capital do I need?

The law sets no fixed figure; it depends on your activity. The capital must match the business plan, plus enough for your own living costs. After our first call we give you the real number for your case.

Can I work anywhere in Spain?

The first permit is usually limited to the region and activity in your plan. After renewal the restriction is lifted.

Can my family come?

Yes, usually through family reunification. We check timing and requirements for your family separately.

What if the business struggles?

To renew you must show the activity is real and that tax and social security are paid. If things do not go to plan, we discuss alternatives early.

Residency consultation

Let’s see whether this route works for you

Tell us about your income, family and plans; we will tell you honestly which route fits.

Book a consultation