What Is Self-Employment Residency?
A permit that allows a person to carry out an economic activity in Spain as an entrepreneur or independent professional (Autónomo), rather than working for another employer. This route requires proving a realistic and viable economic project.
Requirements
- Submitting a documented and specific business plan (Plan de Empresa) for the proposed activity
- Proving professional qualification or sufficient experience in the field of activity, through academic qualifications or a work history
- Proving financial capacity or securing the capital needed to start and run the project
- In some cases, a project feasibility report from the relevant institutions of the autonomous region
- No criminal record and valid health insurance
The most important factor for the success of this type of case is the quality and coherence of the business plan: economic justification, a clearly defined target market, a realistic estimate of costs and revenue, and a clear execution plan.
Main Case Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Business plan | Describes the activity, target market and financial projections of the project |
| Qualification/experience documents | Proves your ability to carry out the intended activity |
| Financial documents | Proves the capital or financing needed to get started |
| Feasibility report (if required) | An official assessment of the project's viability |
On this route, you are your own employer and bear full responsibility for the project. If you are looking for a work contract with a Spanish employer instead, check the Employment Under a Work Contract page instead of this route.
Application Steps
- Draft a detailed, documented business plan
- Gather documents proving professional qualification and financial capacity
- Submit the application through the Spanish Embassy in Tehran or the local immigration office
- Once approved, register your activity as Autónomo and begin your economic activity
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a business plan (Plan de Empresa)?
It is a document describing the proposed activity, target market, financial projections, required capital and the economic justification for the project.
How can I prove my qualification for this activity?
By providing relevant academic qualifications, professional certificates, or a work history and practical experience in the same field of activity.
What documents are needed to prove financial capacity?
Bank statements, proof of asset ownership, or confirmation of financing, proportional to the capital required by the project.
Is a feasibility report always required?
Not in every case; it depends on the type of activity and the autonomous region where the project is registered.