Types of residence
Types of Residence in Andorra: Which One Is Right for You?
Andorra offers different types of residence permits tailored to a wide range of professional and personal profiles. Choosing the right option is the first step towards settling in the country with confidence, as each category comes with its own requirements, costs and minimum stay obligations. Below, we explain the five main pathways to obtaining residence in Andorra.
Employment-Based Residence Permit (Active Residence)
This option is designed for individuals who have been hired by an Andorran company to carry out a professional activity. It is the most common route for those relocating to Andorra with a job already secured, as the residence permit is linked to the employment contract.
Self-Employed Residence Permit (Active Residence)
Created for entrepreneurs who wish to establish and manage their own company in Andorra. Applicants must incorporate a business, act as its administrator and pay the entry fee established under current regulations. It is the natural choice for freelancers, self-employed professionals and business founders.
Residence Without Gainful Activity (Passive Residence)
Designed for investors and individuals with independent income who wish to live in Andorra without working locally. It requires a minimum investment in Andorran assets (real estate, financial products or company shares) and a minimum period of physical presence in the country. It is the ideal option for wealth management and real estate investment.
Residence for International Professionals
Intended for individuals who provide services from Andorra to clients located abroad, including consultants, digital nomads and highly qualified professionals. It allows residents to live in the Principality while maintaining an international client portfolio, subject to local substance requirements.
Residence for Scientific, Cultural and Sports Activities
A residence category reserved for high-level professionals in the scientific, cultural or sporting fields who establish their residence in the Principality of Andorra.
Which Residence Option Interests You?
If you are moving to Andorra with an employment contract, the employment-based residence permit is the right route for you. If you plan to launch a business, the self-employed residence permit is likely the best fit. If your goal is to invest and enjoy life in Andorra without carrying out local employment activities, passive residence may be the ideal solution. And if you work remotely for international clients, the residence permit for international professionals could be the most efficient option.
At Landscape Homes, we help you find the perfect property for any of these residence pathways and connect you with specialised advisors who can guide you through the process.
FAQs
What is the minimum investment required for passive residency in Andorra?
Current regulations require a minimum investment of €800,000 in Andorran assets, in addition to a non-refundable government deposit of €50,000, plus €10,000 for each dependent family member. The purchase of a property in Andorra may count towards this investment requirement.
Can I buy a property in Andorra without being a resident?
Yes. Foreign real estate investment is permitted subject to prior authorisation, although it is subject to the foreign real estate investment tax. Many buyers combine a property purchase with an application for passive residence.
Does passive residence automatically make me a tax resident?
Not automatically. Passive residence requires a minimum stay of 90 days per year in Andorra. To be considered a tax resident, you must generally spend more than 183 days per year in the country or have your main centre of economic interests located there.
How long does it take to obtain residence in Andorra?
Processing times vary depending on the residence category and the documentation provided. However, when the application is complete, procedures are usually resolved within a few weeks to a few months. Professional guidance is highly recommended to avoid delays and ensure a smooth process.
