Spain

EU access plus a strong startup ecosystem in Madrid and Barcelona. The 2023 Startup Law introduced friendly tax and visa regimes.

Region

Europe

Capital

Madrid

Currency

EUR

Language

Spanish

Setup time

2–6 weeks

Tax

Corporate tax 25%; 15% for new companies first two profitable years

Company types

How businesses are typically structured in Spain.

Sociedad Limitada (SL)

Limited liability company, the standard SME vehicle.

Best for

Most operating businesses

Capital

€1 minimum (under Startup Law)

Liability

Limited

Sociedad Anónima (SA)

Public limited company; higher capital and governance.

Best for

Larger or listed companies

Capital

€60,000 minimum

Branch (Sucursal)

Extension of a foreign company; not a separate legal entity.

Best for

Foreign companies operating directly

Visa pathways

The most relevant options for founders, employees, investors, and long-stay residents.

Digital Nomad Visa

Up to 3 years, renewable to 5

Remote workers employed abroad; introduced under the Startup Law.

Requirements

Income ~€2,646+/month, remote employer >1 year old

Entrepreneur Visa

3 years initial

Founders of innovative businesses endorsed by ENISA.

Requirements

Innovative business plan, ENISA report

Highly Qualified Professional

Up to 3 years

Skilled employees of Spanish companies meeting size criteria.

Requirements

Qualifications + qualifying employer

Non-Lucrative Visa

1 year initial, renewable

Long-stay without working in Spain.

Requirements

Passive income ~€2,400+/month

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

France 🇫🇷