Andorra Approves 150 Advance Work Permits as Quota Runs Out

The Andorran government has approved an advance of 150 work and residence permits for essential sectors after the previous quota of 1,170—set last October—ran out, Minister and government spokesman Guillem Casal said at a Wednesday press conference after the Council of Ministers meeting.

This measure bridges the gap until the new general quota of 800 takes effect in April, down 11 per cent from the October allocation (though some reports cite a prior figure of 900). The advanced permits will subtract from the April total, ensuring the combined number does not exceed 800. Casal emphasised that the move responds to economic and social needs raised at the Economic and Social Council, promoting sustainable population growth.

Eligible sectors match groups 1 and 2 of the national job classification: management and organisational roles, highly qualified technical and scientific professionals, healthcare, education, social health caregivers, and home assistants. Non-EU applicants must show at least six years of experience in the sector, plus Catalan proficiency at A1 level on first renewal and A2 on the second.

Self-employed permits will drop 50 per cent from 391 last year to 200, with fixed categories that cannot shift unused slots: 150 for foreign investment (nearly 60 per cent below last year's 350), 30 for liberal professionals (excluding doctors, down from 41 including them), and 20 for doctors. Foreign investment requires a minimum €1 million investment and €50,000 non-refundable contribution under the Sustainable Growth Law; other self-employed permits follow similar rules, except titled professions.

Passive residence permits, for non-working stays, fall 6 per cent to 200: 163 for residency without lucrative activity, 17 for scientific, cultural or sporting interests, 10 for professionals with international projection, and 10 for private geriatric or medical/therapeutic centres. Applicants need a minimum €1 million investment plus €50,000 non-refundable from the lead applicant and €12,000 per dependent, per omnibus law 2.