Andorra is a small principality located in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. It is an attractive destination for foreign nationals looking to relocate, offering a high quality of life, low taxes, and a pleasant climate. To live and work in Andorra, foreign nationals need to obtain residency status. There are different types of residency available, depending on the length of stay and the purpose of the visit.
Types of Residency in Andorra
Temporary Residency
Temporary residency is suitable for individuals who wish to stay in Andorra for a short period of time. This type of residency can be granted for up to one year, and it can be renewed for additional periods of one year, up to a maximum of three years.
Temporary residency is granted for different purposes, such as work, study, research, or retirement. To obtain temporary residency, foreign nationals must provide evidence of their financial means to support themselves during their stay, as well as proof of health insurance coverage. Additionally, they may be required to demonstrate proficiency in Catalan, which is the official language of Andorra.
Permanent Residency
Permanent residency is suitable for individuals who plan to live and work in Andorra for an extended period of time. Permanent residency can be granted to foreign nationals who have lived in Andorra for at least 20 years, or to those who have made a significant investment in the country.
To obtain permanent residency based on investment, foreign nationals must invest at least 400,000 euros in Andorra, either by purchasing real estate or by making a deposit in a local bank. Alternatively, they can obtain permanent residency by creating a business in Andorra that generates employment and contributes to the economy.
Passive Residency
Passive residency is a special type of residency that is granted to individuals who can demonstrate that they have sufficient means to support themselves without working in Andorra. Passive residency is granted for a period of 10 years, and it can be renewed for additional periods of 10 years.
To obtain passive residency, foreign nationals must provide evidence of their financial means, such as a bank statement or a certificate of deposit. They must also purchase or rent a property in Andorra, and they may be required to demonstrate proficiency in Catalan.
Applying for Residency in Andorra
The process for applying for residency in Andorra varies depending on the type of residency that is being sought. In general, the process involves the following steps:
- Obtain a criminal record certificate from the country of origin or the country where the applicant has resided for the last 5 years.
- Obtain a medical certificate stating that the applicant does not have any infectious diseases.
- Prepare a power of attorney if the application is being submitted by a representative.
- Submit the application and the required documents to the Immigration Service of the Government of Andorra.
- Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of residency that is being sought.
The processing time for residency applications can vary depending on the type of residency, but it can take several weeks or months.
Documents Required for Residency in Andorra
To apply for residency in Andorra, foreign nationals must provide a number of documents, including:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate, if applicable
- Criminal record certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- Proof of investment or business creation, if applicable
- Property rental or purchase contract, if applicable
- Power of attorney, if applicable
It is important to note that these requirements can vary depending on the type of residency that is being sought. Applicants should consult the Immigration Service of the Government of Andorra.
Registration with a Government Department
Upon arrival in Andorra, foreign nationals are required to register with the local immigration authorities. This registration is necessary in order to obtain a residency permit and to update your details if you change address or employment.
Reliable Information on Residency in Andorra
For reliable and up-to-date information on residency in Andorra, foreign nationals can visit the following websites:
- Andorran Government website (https://www.govern.ad/en)
- Andorran Immigration Authority website (https://immigracio.ad/en)