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Upgrading to a work residence permit with the right to be self-employed, based on the length of residence

This procedure is intended for legal residents of Spain who wish to start their own business (self-employment) after having resided in the country on a non-work residence permit. It enables them to transition from a simple residence status to a status that allows both residence and the pursuit of self-employment.
Assess the chances
  • Personal manager
    Your personal manager will accompany you every step of the way, monitoring all stages and resolving any issues that arise.
  • Preparation of documents
    We take care of the entire document preparation process, including checking them to eliminate errors and delays.
  • Case audit
    If your situation is complex, we will conduct a detailed audit and offer customised solutions to increase your chances of success.
Personal manager
Your personal manager will accompany you every step of the way, monitoring all stages and resolving any issues that arise.
Preparation of documents
We take care of the entire document preparation process, including checking them to eliminate errors and delays.
Case audit
If your situation is complex, we will conduct a detailed audit and offer customised solutions to increase your chances of success.
Who is it suitable for?
Non-EU foreign nationals who:
Hold a valid residence permit without the right to work (e.g. Residencia No Lucrativa, Arraigo Socioformativo).
Have lived in Spain legally for at least one year.
Have a viable business project to be implemented in Spain.
Key legislation
  • Organic Law 4/2000 (Law on Foreigners).
    Royal Decree 1155/2024 (Articles 182–184), which regulates the modification.
Requirements
A residence and work permit is issued for two years (the duration of the first renewal under the General Scheme).
Length of residence: Proof of legal and continuous residence in Spain for at least one year.
Good character: No criminal convictions in Spain and no entry ban.
Business plan: Submission of a detailed business plan (Plan de Negocio) demonstrating the project’s viability, economic feasibility and the fact that it does not require the creation of a large number of new jobs.
Financial resources and qualifications: Proof of sufficient financial resources to launch the project and, where necessary, professional qualifications to carry out the proposed activities.
Required documents
Main list
Application form (Official Form EX-07).
A copy of the current TIE.
Detailed business plan (Plan de Negocio).
Documentation confirming financial resources and qualifications.

Application procedure

  • Development of a business plan:

    Drawing up a convincing business plan, including financial forecasts, a description of operations and investment requirements.
  • Gathering documents:

    Полная комплектация пакета документов, включая подтверждение легального проживания в течение года, финансовых средств и профессиональной квалификации.
  • Submitting an application:

    Submission of the application (Official Form EX-07) in person by the applicant or their representative to the Foreigners’ Office (Oficina de Extranjería) in their place of residence.
  • Project evaluation:

    Conducting an economic assessment of the project by Extranjerí or authorised bodies (e.g. the Chamber of Commerce).
  • Awaiting a decision:

    Awaiting a decision from the Immigration Office. The official processing time is three months.
  • Registration and TIE:

    Once you have received a positive decision, you must register with the Social Security system (Seguridad Social) as a self-employed person, register with the tax authorities (Hacienda) and apply for a new residence card (TIE) with the status of ‘residence and self-employment’.
From Resident to Entrepreneur: My Journey in Spain.
Switching to a work residence permit by setting up your own business requires a legally sound business plan and solid evidence of the financial resources needed to launch the venture. We offer expert support in drawing up a business plan, preparing all the necessary documents and successfully submitting your application, which is key to obtaining a two-year permit to carry out independent business activities.
What does the service include?
Suitable for most applicants. We provide full support throughout the entire process and see your application through to the granting of a residence permit.
  • Case assessment: Checking documents for compliance with Spanish immigration regulations.
  • Preparing the application: Compiling a complete set of documents for the consulate or immigration authorities.
  • Health insurance: Finding a competitive policy and taking out insurance with a Spanish company.
  • Medical certificate: Arranging for the issue of a standard-format medical certificate.
  • Certified translation: Official translation (2 pages included in the price).
  • Technical translation: Preparation of translations (3 pages included in the price).
  • Application process: Booking an appointment at the Consulate and obtaining access codes.
  • Completing forms: Preparing all forms, applications and receipts for the payment of fees.
  • Submission by a solicitor: Electronic submission of documents via the solicitor’s official portal.
  • since €3510
    On behalf of the main applicant.
    No hidden fees.
    Get in Touch
  • Payment procedure
    First, we sign a contract.
    50%
    before the provision of services begins;
    50%
    on the day the documents are submitted
Not included and charged separately:
  • State fees and charges: Payable in the country where the application is submitted (medical certificates, certificates of good conduct).
  • Personal expenses: Private health insurance, tuition fees or the cost of drawing up a business plan (depending on the type of residence permit).
  • Important: All government fees within Spain are already included in the service fee.