In this article
Spain wants to attract founders. The entrepreneur visa in Spain allows non-EU nationals to reside in the country to launch an innovative business project. Since the Startup Act reform, the permit has become more accessible, but it still depends on convincing the authorities that your project is genuinely innovative and of economic interest.
Who is it for?
The entrepreneur permit is aimed at people who want to start a business in Spain that is:
- Innovative: offering a new product, service or business model, or a relevant technological component.
- Of special economic interest for Spain: job creation, investment, contribution to a sector or region.
- Scalable: with growth potential beyond a traditional local business.
A standard restaurant, shop or consultancy, without an innovative element, will generally not qualify. For those projects, other routes such as self-employment authorisations may be more appropriate.
The ENISA favourable report
The core of the application is a favourable report from ENISA (Empresa Nacional de Innovación), the public company that evaluates the business project. ENISA assesses:
- The profile of the founders and their professional background.
- The business plan: product, market, competition, strategy.
- Innovation and added value.
- Financial projections and funding sources.
- Expected impact in terms of jobs and investment.
Companies certified as startups under the Startup Act can benefit from a more streamlined procedure.
The business plan
A strong business plan for this purpose should include:
- Executive summary and description of the innovation.
- Market analysis and target customers.
- Business model and revenue streams.
- Team and roles.
- Hiring plan in Spain.
- Three to five-year financial forecast.
- Funding: own resources, investors, grants.
It must be realistic and consistent. ENISA regularly rejects plans that are generic or overly optimistic.
Other requirements
- No criminal record in Spain or in previous countries of residence.
- Legal stay in Spain if applying from Spain, or application at the consulate if abroad.
- Private health insurance valid in Spain.
- Sufficient financial means to live in Spain during the project.
The procedure and timeline
- Preparing the business plan and supporting documents.
- Applying for the ENISA report.
- Applying for the residence permit at the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE), or for the visa at the consulate.
- Obtaining the foreigner identity card (TIE) after arrival.
The residence permit is initially granted for up to three years and can be renewed if the business is active. Spouses, partners and children can apply at the same time.
Setting up the company
Once approved, you will usually incorporate a Spanish company (typically an S.L.), open a bank account, register with the tax authorities and social security, and obtain any local licences. Our guide to creating companies in Spain explains the steps.
Tips for a successful ENISA evaluation
Explain clearly what is new about your project and why Spain, and in particular the Balearic Islands, is the right place to develop it. Show that the founding team has the skills to execute the plan. Support your figures with market data and, if possible, letters of intent from customers or partners. Avoid generic templates: evaluators read many business plans and quickly identify copied content.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to invest a minimum amount?
There is no fixed minimum, but you must show the project is financially viable.
Can I apply from Spain as a tourist?
Yes. Applying from within Spain is possible if you are in the country legally.
Can my partner work?
Family members of entrepreneurs can generally work in Spain.
Conclusion
The entrepreneur visa is a real opportunity for founders who want to build their business in Spain, and the Balearic Islands offer a growing tech and tourism ecosystem. Success depends on a well-structured plan and a complete application. Castell.law’s immigration lawyers guide founders through the ENISA report, the permit and company incorporation.
