Introduction
Entry/Exit in Andorra is at the center of the migration debate: Spain has decided to advance the implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) starting February 2nd, which immediately changes the requirements for non-EU applicants seeking residence or work permits who want to establish or work in Andorra. If you are planning to move, seek employment, or bring temporary workers, it’s essential to understand what this change entails and how to prepare.
What does the implementation of Entry/Exit in Andorra mean?
The new requirement involves Spanish authorities demanding that non-EU applicants demonstrate they are legally stay in the Schengen area before processing permits related to Andorra. Practically, this translates into two key rules:
- Not exceeding 90 days of stay in Schengen within a 180-day period.
- Presenting documentation verifying travel movements and legal status in Schengen when applying for residence or work permits.
This additional control is linked to Entry/Exit in Andorra because Spain, managing its border crossings with Andorra, requires this registration to verify stays and prevent irregularities.
Political and administrative context
The announcement caught the Andorran government by surprise, which has already urgently approved an amendment to the immigration service regulation to adapt procedures. Spokesperson Guillem Casal explained that the measure will be applied immediately and that Interior and Justice Minister Ester Molné has already discussed with the Spanish minister to try to postpone the date to April 9th; however, for now, the effective date remains February 2nd.
Negotiations with the EU and neighboring countries
Andorra is in talks with the European Commission to establish a broader migration agreement; according to the government, this agreement is complementary to Entry/Exit and does not replace it. France, for its part, has not notified any similar advance, complicating bilateral coordination.
Main implications for those moving or working in Andorra
If your goal is to live, work, or invest in Andorra, the Entry/Exit in Andorra changes the preparation and documentation you must submit. These are the most relevant practical consequences:
- Non-EU applicants must demonstrate they have not exceeded the 90/180-day limit in Schengen.
- Temporary and seasonal workers should plan their exit and return to avoid exceeding allowed days.
- Andorran companies and employers will need to verify their candidates’ documentation and provide proof of their situation in Schengen.
Additionally, many recent applications might require the submission of the new document, so reviewing previous requests and updating them if necessary is advisable.
Practical tips: how to prepare for the implementation of Entry/Exit in Andorra
Here is a list of recommended steps to avoid issues when processing residence or work permits:
- Check your travel history in Schengen and count your days of stay in the last 180 days.
- Request and keep stamps, entry/exit records, or official movement reports when appropriate.
- If you are a temporary worker, coordinate with your employer the exit date to stay within the 90-day limit.
- Update any ongoing permit applications with the documentation required by Spanish authorities.
- If you are moving permanently, start residence procedures as soon as possible to avoid rejections due to lack of documentation.
For practical information on residence procedures in Andorra, consult our internal guide on residency in Andorra, and if you are interested in the fiscal impact of the move, review taxes in Andorra.
What about seasonal workers?
The Andorran government has expressed concern about the volume of seasonal workers (estimates suggest thousands) and the difficulty of assuming responsibilities in case of irregularities. If workers return to Schengen and exceed the day limit, they could face penalties or prohibitions on re-entry, and Andorra would need to manage the administrative or return consequences.
Recommendations for employers
- Verify the Schengen status of your workers before hiring them.
- Include clauses in temporary contracts requiring updated documentation.
- Plan rotations and exits respecting the 90/180-day rule to avoid unforeseen repatriation risks.
Impact on relocation strategy to Andorra
If you are considering moving or investing in Andorra, this advance in the application of Entry/Exit emphasizes the need for early planning. Deadlines and administrative requirements could affect the move schedule, hiring, and personal taxation.
To plan a safe and efficient move, review our resources on moving to Andorra, housing and rental options in the living in Andorra guide, and health and education aspects through healthcare system and education in Andorra.
Quick checklist before submitting your application
- Verify accumulated days in Schengen (90/180).
- Obtain records of entries and exits.
- Update residence or work forms with the new documentation.
- Contact your future employer to coordinate dates and responsibilities.
- Consult with a professional advisor if you have questions about migration or fiscal status.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who exactly is affected by Entry/Exit in Andorra?
It concerns non-EU applicants for residence and work permits who need to justify their status in the Schengen area before processing permits related to Andorra.
Are Andorran citizens affected?
No: the government has stated that Andorran citizens and San Marino residents are not subject to these specific controls related to Entry/Exit.
What should I do if I already have an ongoing application?
Check your file and, if required, submit additional documentation about your stays in Schengen. Contact authorities or professional assistance to update your file on time.
Conclusion and contact
The early implementation of Entry/Exit in Andorra requires quick action: submitting documentation, planning departures, and coordinating with employers and authorities. If you need personalized advice on residence, taxes, or relocation, in Andorraway we can help you plan all steps. Visit our pages: residency, taxes, and contact for professional assistance.
Remember: Entry/Exit in Andorra has been in effect since February 2nd. Plan ahead to avoid issues and ensure a safe move or hiring process.