Residence and self-employment visa in Spain. Common requirements.

Applying for a residence and self-employment visa in Spain requires meeting specific legal requirements and submitting a comprehensive set of documents. Below is a detailed guide to the necessary documentation and the legal framework governing this process.​

Legal Framework

The application process is governed by:​

• Organic Law 4/2000 on the Rights and Freedoms of Foreigners in Spain and their Social Integration.​Gobierno de España – Inclusión
• Regulation of Organic Law 4/2000, approved by Royal Decree 557/2011.​Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores

Required Documentation

To apply for a residence and self-employment visa, you must provide the following documents:​

1. Official Application Form (EX–07):Complete and sign two copies of the EX–07 form. 
2. Valid Passport:Submit a complete copy of your valid passport or travel document. 
3. Professional Qualifications:Provide original and a copy of documents accrediting the necessary professional qualifications or licenses required to practice your profession. 
4. Business Plan:Present a detailed project of the establishment or activity to be undertaken, including the planned investment, expected profitability, and, if applicable, the jobs anticipated to be created. 
5. Financial Means:Provide original and a copy of documents demonstrating sufficient economic means to undertake the planned investment or a commitment of support from financial institutions or others. 
6. Background Checks:Submit a criminal record certificate issued by the authorities of your country or countries of residence over the past five years. This document must be apostilled or legalized and, if necessary, officially translated into Spanish. 
7. Medical Certificate:Provide a medical certificate confirming that you do not suffer from any diseases that could have serious public health repercussions, in accordance with International Health Regulations. 
8. Proof of Residence:Submit documents proving your legal residence in the consular district where you are applying. 
9. Application Fee:Pay the fee corresponding to the residence and self-employment authorization application. 

Important Considerations

• Document Translation and Legalization:All foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, if necessary, accompanied by an official translation into Spanish. 
• Application Submission:The application must be submitted in person at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence. In certain cases, a duly accredited representative may submit the application on your behalf. 
• Processing Time:The decision period for the residence and self-employment authorization is typically three months from the day following the application submission date. 
• Visa Issuance:If the authorization is granted, you must apply for the corresponding visa within one month of notification. Once the visa is issued, you must enter Spain within the validity period of the visa, which is usually three months. 

Detailed Business Plan Requirements

One of the most critical elements in the self-employment visa application is a comprehensive business plan. Spanish authorities use this document to evaluate the viability, sustainability, and economic contribution of your proposed activity in Spain.

Your business plan should be realistic, well-structured, and demonstrate that your project aligns with local market needs. It is strongly recommended to have it written or reviewed by a professional consultant familiar with the Spanish business environment.

 Key Elements Your Business Plan Must Include:

1. Executive Summary
   • Overview of your business idea
   • Type of activity (e.g. consulting, design studio, e-commerce)
   • Target market and differentiation
2. Personal Background & Experience
   • Your professional experience, education, and qualifications relevant to the activity
   • Why you are capable of carrying out this business successfully
3. Description of the Activity
   • Detailed explanation of the services or products offered
   • Location and operational structure
   • Legal form of the business (autónomo, SL, cooperative, etc.)
4. Market Analysis
   • Analysis of local competition
   • Demand estimation and potential client base
   • SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats)
5. Marketing & Sales Strategy
   • How you plan to attract clients
   • Pricing structure
   • Online/offline promotional activities
   • Branding approach
6. Financial Projections (3 years)
   • Initial investment and startup costs
   • Estimated monthly/annual revenues and expenses
   • Profit margin forecast
   • Break-even analysis
   • Cash flow projection
7. Employment Impact(if applicable)
   • Number of jobs your project might generate
   • Indirect economic benefits to the local area
8. Licenses & Permits(if applicable)
   • Any professional or sector-specific authorizations required
   • Steps already taken to secure them
9. Implementation Timeline
   • Planned milestones from setup to full operation
   • When you expect to start generating revenue
10. Support Documents (Annexes):
    • CV
    • Letters of intent or pre-contracts with clients or suppliers
    • Lease agreements (if applicable)
    • Bank statements or proof of funding

 Note: In many consulates, business plans are reviewed by UPTA (Unión de Profesionales y Trabajadores Autónomos) or similar Spanish organizations. Ensure your plan meets their standards — structure, realism, and contribution to the Spanish economy are crucial.