Residency in Andorra is granted either without a work permit, which we consider below, or with a work permit, which is outside the scope of this summary.
Andorra offers two main types of residence permit:
🔹 Passive residence (without local employment)
🔹 Active residence (with employment or activity in Andorra)
Basic requirements for residence in Andorra
Regardless of the category, all applicants are first required to meet four general conditions.The applicant must produce evidence of:
► have a clean criminal record;
► sufficient financial means of support;
► adequate health and incapacity insurance and the benefit of a sufficient pension for passive residents, and registration with the public CASS system for active residents;
► ownership or a lease of suitable residential accommodation in Andorra or a contract to purchase within 3 to 6 months of submission the residence application; and
► provision of a written undertaking to permanently reside in Andorra for 90 days or more each year (minimum 183 days for active residences).
In addition certain personal documentation will be required to be submitted.
Providing these basic conditions are satisfied, the following further conditions will apply depending on the category of resident permit sought:
Active residence in Andorra (with work permit)
For those who wish to live and work in Andorra on a year-round basis (≥ 183 days/year) and pay contributions to the social security system (CASS). There are two types of active residence in Andorra:
1. "Compte Propi" residence - Local entrepreneur
This residence is intended for entrepreneurs who wish to set up and manage their own company in Andorra. The applicant must own at least 34% of the shares in the company, be a director of the company and deposit €50,000 with the AFA (except in the case of exemption for digital activities). This status entitles the applicant to public health cover via the CASS system and allows them to carry on a local business. In 2025, only 25 licences are available for this category.
2. Salaried work permit
The work permit is intended for people recruited by an Andorran company. It entitles the holder to residence and employment, provided that the job is maintained. The employee pays social security contributions (CASS) like any active resident. This type of permit is common in seasonal or technical sectors such as the hotel industry, construction or specialised services.
Passive residence (without gainful activity)
Ideal for people with foreign income or assets, passive residence allows you to live in Andorra with a limited presence requirement (≥ 90 days/year).No local work permit is required.
1. Category A - Residence by investment
This residence is aimed at people wishing to settle in Andorra without carrying out any professional activity. It requires a minimum investment of €600,000 in Andorran assets, such as property or company shares, and a deposit of €50,000 with the AFA (plus €10,000 per family member). Applicants must have an annual income of at least €40,000 and take out private health insurance. The permit is renewed gradually: first for 2 years, then 2 years, then 3 years, before reaching a validity of 10 years.
2. Category B - Passive residence for professionals with international activity
This category is aimed at entrepreneurs and service providers whose activity is mainly international (at least 85% of turnover outside Andorra). Applicants must set up an Andorran company, hold a significant stake in it, and demonstrate a minimum annual income of €40,000. A deposit of €50,000 is required from AFA, along with a detailed business plan and, since 2025, a university degree or equivalent.
Although this category was popular in the past, it is now subject to stricter conditions and is no longer recommended in the majority of cases.
Although this category was popular in the past, it is now subject to stricter conditions and is no longer recommended in the majority of cases.
3. Category C - Internationally recognised personalities
Reserved for artists, top sportsmen and women, scientists or public figures, this residency is obtained without any investment obligation, but requires a deposit of €50,000 with the AFA. Applicants must be internationally recognised, have an annual income of more than €40,000 and work mainly abroad (at least 85% of their income outside Andorra).
4. Digital Nomad Visa (new in 2023)
This status is aimed at remote workers and digital entrepreneurs working for foreign customers. It does not require any investment, but favours innovative profiles validated by the Ministry of the Economy. Applicants must have an annual income of at least €40,000, be present in Andorra for at least 90 days a year and take out private health insurance. The scheme remains selective and changes regularly.
Procedure and Our Services in Andorra
The procedure to obtain a resident’s card is reasonably straightforward but the requirements must be strictly followed to avoid delay or possible rejection of the application. We have the expertise and the experience to coordinate the preparation of the application and to guide you successfully through the application and renewal process:- Choosing the right type of residence
- Company incorporation and banking formalities
- Property search with trusted agents
- Residence files for the whole family
- Driver's licence exchange, card renewal, etc.
For more information, please contact p.ogier@rosemont.ad