For a non-EU founder of an innovative startup, Spain’s entrepreneur procedure may be relevant. The project must receive a favourable ENISA report and the applicant must meet the personal requirements. The residence authorisation is for three years, subject to the applicable conditions. A permit does not automatically grant eligibility for the Beckham law.
Are you an EU citizen, including French? You benefit from freedom of movement. Prepare the appropriate residence registration rather than choosing a non-EU visa. The Barcelona relocation guide explains this distinction.
| Route | Intended profile | Duration and conditions to check | Work | Beckham law |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneur | Non-EU founders with an innovative project or one of particular economic interest | Three-year residence authorisation; renewal subject to conditions | Activity covered by the authorisation | Separate tax eligibility assessment |
| International remote work | Eligible remote workers whose activity fits the scheme | Check the visa or residence authorisation route and current requirements | Within the limits of the remote work scheme | Separate tax eligibility assessment |
| Non-lucrative residence | Applicants with sufficient resources who do not intend to work | Check the applicable visa and residence conditions | Not a route for carrying out professional work | No automatic eligibility |
| Former investor “golden visa” | Previous applications and existing permits covered by transitional rules | New investor visa applications ceased from 3 April 2025 | Check the rules for an existing case | Separate tax eligibility assessment |
For an innovative startup project, check the UGE entrepreneur instructions and our entrepreneur procedure guide. The project, funding, personal documents and any family applications must be examined for your situation; a fixed financial threshold should not be assumed for every file.
The former golden visa is no longer an option for a new property investment application. The UGE investor information explains the transitional treatment of previous applications and valid permits. Before deciding, confirm the appropriate residence route and tax position with qualified advisers.