Andorra tightens access rules: halt to new residencies and stricter border controls

Reading time: 7 minutes

🏁 Introduction

The Government of Andorra has decided to temporarily halt new self-employment residencies, the most common route for entrepreneurs, freelancers and digital creators.
The measure responds to quota saturation and a desire to redirect growth toward projects with real added value.

According to official sources and several media outlets (ARA Andorra, Diari d’Andorra, Digital Andorra, Cadena SER), the 200 permits planned for 2025 are already fully allocated.
For the first time, the Government has chosen not to open waiting lists, breaking a tradition that allowed applicants to reserve a place for the following year.

This comes amid strong demand — especially from Spanish freelancers, entrepreneurs and digital professionals — following higher social contributions in Spain.

To revisit the situation of residences in Andorra, we recommend reading this article about the situation of the permis of residence in Andorra in 2025, where we had already anticipated what is now happening.

🔹 A policy shift in Andorra’s immigration model

Authorities stress this is not a ban, but a measure to organise economic and demographic growth.
The goal is to prioritise profiles bringing knowledge, technology and qualified employment, while maintaining social and infrastructure balance.

The Government has also announced plans to limit commercial licences for activities relying on low-skilled labour — such as hospitality, restaurants or retail — linking approvals to their real impact on productivity and employment.

Although not yet formalised in law, the measure fits within Andorra’s roadmap toward a more selective and sustainable economic model.

“The new approach aims to preserve Andorra’s fiscal and business appeal, but with higher standards and structural coherence: less volume, more value.”

🔸 Tighter control over cross-border and seasonal workers

The shift toward stricter control does not affect only the self-employed.
Authorities have also stepped up oversight of cross-border and seasonal workers, especially those entering during the winter season.

According to Diari d’Andorra and Cadena SER, police checks have increased to detect false cross-border workers — people employed in Andorra but not truly residing abroad as required by law.

❗ Measures under the upcoming legal framework

• Prove effective legal residence in France or Spain to maintain cross-border status.
• Revoke or deny permits if initial conditions (salary, qualification, hours) are no longer met.
• Submit complete documentation before entering the country, including return ticket and valid employment contract.

These steps follow the rejection of over 200 seasonal permit applications for non-compliance.
While the future EU Entry/Exit system will not directly affect Andorra, it will help detect irregularities in cross-border mobility.

🔹 What it means for entrepreneurs and professionals

These decisions mark a turning point in access to Andorra.
The country is not closing its doors, but raising the bar for entry.

For both entrepreneurs and employees, the new context demands:

• Advance planning: quotas are limited and fill up quickly.
• Solid projects: applicants must show real activity and economic contribution.
• Strict documentation: especially regarding residence and employment.
• Strategic focus: technology, consulting and finance remain priority sectors.
• Professional advice: growing regulatory complexity makes expert support essential.

Conclusion

Andorra’s new direction reflects a structural shift in migration and economic policy: from an expansive model to a selective one.

The aim is to preserve quality of life and sustainability, ensuring every new company or resident genuinely contributes to collective prosperity.
For professionals with solid proposals, Andorra remains a privileged environment to grow, provided their project aligns with the new standard: preparation, added value and smart planning.

📚 Related articles

• Residence in Andorra in 2025: stability and upcoming changes — Overview of the current situation and future trends.
• Types of residence in Andorra: active, passive and tax residency (2025) — Explains the main categories and their key features.
• Administrative and tax residence in Andorra: key differences — Clarifies the requirements and implications of each status.
• Tax residency in Andorra: real requirements and benefits (2025) — Outlines the main conditions and fiscal advantages.
• Omnibus Law 5/2025: A Turning Point for Foreign Investment and Housing Policy in Andorra — Examines new restrictions on foreign investment.

Last revision date: October 2025