Why Should You Move Your Startup To Valencia

Date published
June 23, 2025

Valencia is becoming a top destination for founders seeking affordable growth under the Mediterranean sun. Here’s how to relocate your startup efficiently and effectively.

Why Valencia Makes Sense

  • Solid growth: Startup numbers grew 15.5 % in 2024 over the previous year.
  • High support: The Invest in Valencia program created over 1 500 jobs and drove €149 million in economic activity across two years.
  • Access to early funds: The city council boosted seed funding by 50 %, now totaling €600 000.
  • Strong technology mix: Clusters in AI, climate tech, mobility, logistics, healthtech and gaming thrive here.
  • Real world testing: The Urban Innovation Sandbox lets you trial your product in live environments.
  • Fast connectivity: Valenciaport deployed a €6 million 5G network for over 25 000 devices.
  • Changing the narrative: Female founders make up 34 % of startups – the ecosystem supports diversity.
  • Cost advantage: Compared to Madrid or Barcelona, Valencia offers a lower cost of living with easy navigation and streamlined red tape.
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How to Move Your Startup

For EU Founders

  • Get your NIE (tax ID) to rent, open a bank account, and start your business.
  • Stay beyond 90 days? Grab your EU Registration Certificate.

Business Types

  • Autónomo: Ideal for freelancers or solo founders. Includes a flat social security cost (~€300 per month).
  • Sociedad Limitada (SL): Most common for startups. Requires a minimum of €3 000 in capital.

Tax and Compliance

  • New startups enjoy a 15 % corporate tax rate (standard is 25 %) in their first two years.
  • VAT (IVA) is 21 %.
  • Hiring staff? You’ll need to register with social security.

For Non‑EU Founders

  • Entrepreneur Visa: For startups with scalable models. Requires a strong business plan, funding proof, health insurance, and clean background. Apply via the Spanish Economic and Commercial Office, then your local consulate.
  • Self‑Employed Visa: Best for freelancers. Requires a viable plan and financial independence.

Health Insurance

  • Private comprehensive coverage is mandatory. Options like Innoinsure specialize in expat and startup coverage.

Steps to Launch

  1. Obtain your NIE.
  2. Choose your legal structure (Autónomo or SL).
  3. Register your business name with the Mercantile Registry.
  4. Open a bank account and deposit capital.
  5. Finalize your SL incorporation with a notary.
  6. Get your CIF (company tax ID).
  7. Sign up with social security if hiring.

Incentives for Innovation

  • IVACE: Offers innovation grants and subsidies.
  • Lanzadera: Spain’s premier accelerator offering funding and mentorship.
  • BigBAN Angels: Matches local startups with experienced investors.
  • EU programs: Access Horizon Europe and regional grants.

Workspace and Networking

  • Wayco, Vortex: Vibrant co‑working spaces full of founders.
  • Lanzadera Accelerator: Backed by the founders of Mercadona, offers workspace and support.