Guide to Residency in Andorra

Obtaining a residency visa in Andorra is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Andorra gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research and understand the different types of residence permits in Andorra.
  • The most common are passive residency, active residency, and residency without work permit.
  • Visit the official Immigration Service of the Government of Andorra website for more information.
• Prepare all necessary documents.
  • Valid passport and copies.
  • Police certificate ( criminal record certificate) from your country of origin.
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable).
  • Medical certificate issued in Andorra.
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources.
• Apply for a Tax Number (NRT) from the Andorran authorities.
  • Visit the Tax Department website for the application form.
  • Submit the application form along with a valid ID document and proof of address to the Tax Department.
• Open a bank account in Andorra.
  • Choose a bank that suits your needs. Andorra has five banking institutions.
  • Provide the required documents, which usually include a valid passport, proof of address, and a copy of your NRT.
• Rent or purchase a property in Andorra.
  • Research the property market and choose a place to live.
  • Sign a lease agreement or purchase contract.
• Apply for the appropriate residence permit.
  • Submit the application form along with all required documents to the Immigration Service.
  • Pay the application fee.
• Register with the Comú (town hall) of your place of residence.
  • Present your residence permit, lease agreement or property deeds, and passport.
  • You will be issued a certificate of registration (certificat de residència).
• Register with CASS (Andorran Social Security System).
  • Visit the CASS website for more information.
  • Submit the application form along with the required documents to the CASS office.
• Renew your residence permit before it expires.
  • Follow the same procedure as the initial application.
  • Ensure you meet the renewal requirements, such as proof of continuous residence and good conduct.

Important Notes

The Andorran residency process may require the assistance of a professional. Consider hiring a lawyer or a relocation agency to guide you through the process.

All documents must be translated into Catalan and legalized with an apostille (if applicable).

The Andorran residency process requires a significant amount of time and patience. Ensure you fulfill all the requirements and provide all the necessary documents.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Andorra?

"Visiting and residing in Andorra requires certain entry requirements for foreigners. When applying for a visa for short-term stays, applicants must submit a valid passport, as well as proof of income, health insurance, and return flight tickets. Tourist visas for short-term stays up to 90 days are usually granted fairly straightforward. For longer stays, applicants would need to provide further documentation that is specific to the intended purpose of their stay. For foreign citizens who wish to reside permanently in Andorra, they must possess both a valid passport and one or multiple of the following: a valid work contract, proof that they are enrolled in a school or university, proof of pension/retirement, proof of financial means, or an invitation from an Andorran resident. In addition to these documents, foreign citizens will also need to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of both Catalan and Spanish. The residency process then requires that applicants be successfully registered with the local authorities in order to obtain the necessary entitlements and permits," commented one member living in Andorra.