How long does it take to obtain residency in Andorra? What to allow for
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- La rédaction
The short answer
The timeline depends on the status, how complete the file is and the prior authorisations. Verified indicative timeframes are displayed with their date; on top of that comes the time needed to gather the documents, find housing and open an account.
What makes up the timeline
| Step | Factor |
|---|---|
| Preparing the documents | Criminal record, civil status certificates |
| Housing | Search, lease or deed |
| Activity authorisation | Depending on the status |
| Processing of the file | Not guaranteed: authorisation goes through a prior reservation, then supporting documents to be provided within deadlines set by law |
| Bank account | Opening time |
How to save time
- Start the longest documents first.
- Look for housing in parallel.
- Have the file checked before submission.
See documents, timelines and costs.
Why no average timeframe is published
No official source publishes an average processing time. Applications are handled in chronological order of arrival, within the framework of quotas, and several statuses go through a reservation and supporting documents to be provided within legal deadlines. An average timeframe displayed on a blog therefore has no value.
The deadlines set by law
| Status | Legal deadline |
|---|---|
| Self-employed, regulated profession | 3 monthsverified on 12/10/2026 after the reservation to justify the authorisation to practise and registration with the professional body |
| Self-employed, other cases | 6 monthsverified on 12/10/2026 after the reservation to set up the company and justify the conditions |
| Self-employed, proof of activity | 3 monthsverified on 12/10/2026 after the application is registered |
| Residency without gainful activity | Investment to be made within 6 monthsverified on 09/10/2026, extendable by six months |
| Housing | Committed acquisition to be completed within 12 monthsverified on 12/10/2026 |
How to save time
- Gather the criminal record and civil status certificates from the outset.
- Find housing before filing: see renting before having residency.
- Plan for health insurance and the bank account.
- For a company, start the investment authorisation early: decision within 2 monthsverified on 09/10/2026, silence = refusal.
Work out your own case
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Frequently asked questions
Can the procedure be speeded up?
A complete and correct file avoids delays. There is no official shortcut.
Can I arrive before the decision?
It depends on your situation. Seek advice.
Going further
Official sources
This information is general and is not personalised legal, tax or financial advice. It is verified as of the date shown and may change.