Whether you’re considering buying a business on the Costa del Sol or starting one from scratch, this visa allows you to live in Spain and run your own company.

1. Who Needs the Self-Employment Visa?

Non-EU citizens, including British buyers after Brexit, require a self-employment visa to:

• Work legally in Spain
• Operate a business as a foreigner
• Relocate with their family

This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs buying or running businesses in sectors like tourism, hospitality, retail, or services.

2. Requirements for the Autónomo Visa

Applicants must typically provide:

• Business plan showing economic viability
• Proof of investment or business purchase
• Relevant experience in the business field
• Financial resources to support themselves
• Criminal background check

Our case study of Tony & Linda (blog coming soon) shows how a well-prepared business plan and supporting documents can make the process smooth.

3. Benefits of the Self-Employment Visa

• Live legally in Spain
• Work in your own business
• Include family members in your application
• Access to healthcare and social security
• Pathway to long-term residency

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Identify your business opportunity (see 25 Best Businesses to Buy on the Costa del Sol)
2. Prepare a detailed business plan and financial forecast
3. Submit your visa application at the Spanish consulate in your home country
4. Wait for approval and obtain your residence card
5. Relocate and start your business

5. Why the Costa del Sol Is Ideal

The Costa del Sol offers a large international community, thriving tourism, and strong demand for service and hospitality businesses, making it perfect for visa applicants.

✅ Next Steps

Businesses Abroad helps international clients every step of the way: finding a business, preparing a visa application, and relocating successfully.

If you’re ready to buy a business in Spain and get your self-employment visa, contact us today.

One of the most popular options is buying or starting a business in Spain and applying for a self-employment visa.

For many entrepreneurs and investors searching online for “how to move to Spain after Brexit,” this route offers a practical and achievable pathway.

Can You Move to Spain After Brexit?

Yes. British citizens can still relocate to Spain, but they must apply for the appropriate residency visa.

Common options include:

• Non-Lucrative Visa (for retirees or people with passive income)
• Digital Nomad Visa
• Student Visa
• Self-Employment Visa
• Work Visa

For those who want to run a business in Spain, the Self-Employment Visa (Autónomo Visa) is often the most suitable option.

The Self-Employment Visa for Spain

The Spanish self-employment visa allows non-EU citizens to:

• Start a business in Spain
• Buy an existing business
• Work as self-employed
• Live in Spain long term

This visa is particularly popular with people looking to buy businesses on the Costa del Sol, where tourism and service industries create strong opportunities.

Requirements for a Spanish Self-Employment Visa

To apply for this visa, applicants must typically provide:

• A detailed business plan
• Financial forecasts
• Proof of investment or business purchase
• Evidence of relevant experience
• Proof of sufficient funds

The business must demonstrate that it is economically viable and sustainable.

Buying a Business to Support Your Visa Application

Many people relocating to Spain choose to buy an existing business rather than start one from scratch.

Purchasing an established business can make the visa process easier because it demonstrates:

• Proven demand
• Existing customers
• Financial track record
• Realistic income potential

This approach is often used by people searching for:

• Businesses for sale in Spain
• Costa del Sol business opportunities
• Moving to Spain and starting a business

Many entrepreneurs choose to relocate by purchasing one of the business opportunities in Spain available on the Costa del Sol.

Why the Costa del Sol Is So Popular

The Costa del Sol is one of the most popular regions for international buyers due to:

☀ Year-round sunshine
🌍 Large international community
✈ Excellent transport connections
📈 Strong tourism economy
🏖 High quality of life

These factors make it an ideal location for entrepreneurs looking to relocate to Spain and run a business.

Planning to Move to Spain and Start a Business?

Businesses Abroad helps international clients:

✔ Find businesses for sale in Spain
✔ Navigate the business purchase process
✔ Apply for Spanish self-employment visas
✔ Successfully relocate to Spain

If you are considering moving to Spain after Brexit and buying a business, contact Businesses Abroad to explore your options and begin your relocation journey.

We have already assisted many clients with moving to Spain and our blogs on the Self-Employment Visa and a case study on our clients Tony and Linda (coming soon)will provide more detail on how this is possible.