< !DOCTYPE html>MCN Menu - Full Multilingual
  • /
  • /
  • /

Upgrade: "From student to work permit with the right to be self-employed"

This procedure enables students currently in Spain to change their status to that of a temporary resident with the right to carry out business activities (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:
They are in Spain on a student visa (Estancia por Estudios).
They had been in this status for at least six months.
They are planning to start their own business or begin working as a self-employed person.
Key legislation
    • Royal Decree 1155/2024 (Article 190.3).
    • Organic Law 4/2000.
Requirements
A residence and work permit is issued for 1 year.
Status: Must have held student status for at least 6 months.
Project: Submit a viable business plan (Plan de Negocio) that describes the business in detail, including its economic viability and expected revenue.
Qualifications: Provide evidence of the necessary professional qualifications or accredited experience to carry out the declared activities, as well as, where applicable, membership of a professional association (colegiación).
Funding: Confirm that sufficient funds are available to carry out the project and to cover living expenses until the project becomes self-sustaining.
Required documents
Main list
Modification application form (Official Form EX-03).
A copy of your passport.
A copy of the student’s current TIE.
Business plan.
Documents confirming qualifications and investments.
Proof of payment of the fee.

Application procedure

  • Development of a business plan:

    The preparation of a detailed and convincing business plan (Plan de Negocio) demonstrating the viability of the project and the availability of investment.
  • Gathering documents:

    Gathering all the necessary documents, including proof of qualifications and, where required, a positive project viability report.
  • Submitting an application:

    Submission of the application (Official Form EX-03) in person by the applicant or their representative to the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería).
  • Assessment and decision:

    Assessment of the Extranjería application and awaiting a decision. The official processing time is three months.
  • Registration and TIE:

    Once you have received a positive decision, you will need to apply for a TIE card, register with the Social Security as a self-employed person, and start your business.
Change of status — progression to a new level of legalisation.
Procedures for changing residency status, particularly when transitioning from student status or to the UGE-CE scheme, are subject to strict deadlines and rigorous documentation requirements. We guarantee that your application will be submitted to the appropriate authority (Extranjería or UGE-CE) within the stipulated deadlines, in compliance with all the new regulations Royal Decree 1155/2024, which is key to obtaining a positive decision.
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.