Andorra is a natural paradise located in the heart of the Pyrenees. Its borders border Spain and France, which gives it a unique strategic location. In addition to its natural and geographical virtues, it has a tax system that attracts new residents every year. At MCA Assessors we explain everything you need to know to go and live in Andorra with everything prepared.
What are the requirements for moving to Andorra?
To access a residence in Andorra, several formal requirements must be met. These include being of legal age, not having a criminal record, having a rental or property contract, living there for a minimum period of time and making a security deposit, which ranges from €15,000 to €50,000. In addition, you must attend a medical evaluation.
To support these requirements, documents such as a criminal record certificate from the country of origin, a valid passport, certificate of marital status, proof of payment of the bond, and documents related to housing and insurance must be submitted.
How do I apply for residency in Andorra?
In order to move to Andorra, a procedure must be carried out. To start the procedure, it is necessary to select the type of residence and fulfill the corresponding requirements.
Subsequently, the application for immigration authorization must be completed and submitted, accompanied by the required documentation. This process can be carried out personally or through a legal representative, before the immigration service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Principality of Andorra. Finally, the resolution of the application will be carried out within three months of its submission.
What are the ways to live in Andorra?
In general terms, there are four ways of residing in Andorra, determined by specific objectives, economic and professional activities. Below, we show you each of them.
Going to live in Andorra as an employee
The most comprehensive alternative to reside and work in Andorra is through employment. An employment contract with an Andorran entity, either public or private, is required to obtain an active residence and work permit.
After staying in the country for at least 183 days, tax residency is acquired. The permit may be temporary or indefinite depending on the duration of the contract. In addition to the standard requirements we have indicated in the above section, additional documents such as curriculum vitae, employment contract and certain work experience may be required. Registration with the comú must be made within three months after obtaining the permit.
Self-employment
One way to reside in Andorra is to establish oneself as an independent professional by obtaining a residence and self-employment permit. This regime, similar to self-employment elsewhere, is restricted to individuals with university education in specific professions.
Approval is subject to governmental evaluation, considering the validity of the qualifications, economic activity and available professional quotas. It requires the presentation of the curriculum vitae, the application for immigration authorization, the accreditation of governmental authorization, and the registration. Although it is more economical than other options, it has certain limitations, such as the homologation of qualifications and direct responsibility for debts and income.
Going to live in Andorra as an entrepreneur or businessperson
An alternative to establishing residency in Andorra is to do so as an entrepreneur or businessman, through the creation of an Andorran company. Although this approach is more accessible, it also involves considerable costs.
For example, it requires the incorporation of a company, obtaining an active residence permit, having a foreign investment authorization, holding more than 34% of the total share capital, holding an administrative position and demonstrating the company’s operability.
Through family reunification
Residing in Andorra through family reunification implies obtaining an active residence permit linked to the holder of another permit in the country. This permit applies to spouses, children and ascendants over 65 years of age.
In addition to the common requirements, additional documentation is requested, such as health insurance and an affidavit of commitment. The economic capacity is certified by an income equivalent to 70% of the Andorran minimum wage per adult and 40% per child.
After certain modifications in the Immigration Law, a bank certification is required, in addition to proving effective residence with three months of social security contributions.
Passive residence
Obtaining passive residency in Andorra is suitable for those who do not intend to work in the country, such as retirees, international executives, retired sportsmen or people with large family estates.
This permit involves a significant investment and requires a minimum stay of 90 days per year. It can be obtained through an international profession or for scientific, cultural or sporting reasons.
In addition to the common requirements, the following conditions must be met: proof of income above 300% of the minimum annual salary, health and pension coverage, registration with the comú, an investment of at least €600,000 in Andorran assets and a security deposit. The investment must be committed within a maximum period of six months.In conclusion, before moving to Andorra, specific requirements must be met depending on the choice of residence: self-employment, business entrepreneurship or passive residence. At MCA Assessors we have a team of expert managers who will help you throughout the process so that you can reside in Andorra without complications.
