Work and residence visa for non-EU nationals who wish to establish themselves as self-employed (autonomo) in Spain.
Estimated Cost
$1,000
Processing Time
~2 months
Validity
12 months
The Self-Employed Work Visa (Visado de Trabajo por Cuenta Propia) allows non-EU nationals to legally live and work in Spain as independent professionals (autonomos). Unlike the Digital Nomad Visa, this visa covers professionals who work with Spanish clients, operate a local service business, or set up as independent contractors in Spain. Applicants must register with the Spanish tax agency (Agencia Tributaria) and Social Security upon arrival. The visa covers a broad range of professions including marketing consultants, web developers, accountants, lawyers, coaches, tradespeople, and more. Monthly Social Security autonomo contributions are approximately $250-$545/month depending on income.
Average: 2 months
Path to Residency
Path to Citizenship
~10 years
Valid passport*
Business plan*
Detailed business plan demonstrating viability of the self-employment activity in Spain.
Proof of professional qualifications*
For regulated professions: recognized Spanish equivalence of qualifications. For unregulated professions: CV and proof of experience.
Proof of financial means (~$650/month)*
Minimum ~$650/month (100% of IPREM 2026) for sole applicant; additional ~$325/month per dependent spouse; ~$195/month per dependent child.
Criminal background check*
Within 90 days, apostilled and Spanish-translated.
Health insurance*
Comprehensive private health insurance covering Spain.
Proof of accommodation*
Forms EX-07 and Modelo 790*
Official application forms for self-employed residence authorization.
| Fee | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Work/residence permit application fee | $100 | Recurring |
| Visa application fee | $190 | One-time |
| Social Security autonomo monthly contribution | $400 | Recurring |
| Document translation/apostille(optional) | $400 | One-time |
| Health insurance (annual) | $1,400 | Recurring |
| Estimated Total | $1,000 |