Andorra Residency 2026: The Transition to High-Standard Living
The global landscape for residency and investment is shifting, and the Principality of Andorra is leading the way toward a more refined, high-standard model.
On January 22, 2026, the Andorran Parliament approved the “Omnibus 2” Law (Law for Sustainable Growth and Housing Rights), signaling a clear new chapter for one of Europe’s most secure and fiscally attractive jurisdictions.
This legislation represents more than a change in numbers; it is a commitment to the long-term sustainability of the Principality. By raising the bar for entry, Andorra is ensuring that its future growth is balanced with the high quality of life, safety, and infrastructure that residents have come to expect.
The “Source of Truth”: Understanding the BOPA
While the Parliament has approved this landmark legislation, it is vital for prospective applicants to understand the legal timeline. These changes become legally binding only upon their official publication in the BOPA (Butlletí Oficial del Principat d’Andorra).
At JH Corporate Services, we monitor bopa.ad daily to provide our clients with real-time compliance data. Until that final publication, the current framework remains the technical baseline, but the shift in policy is clear: the era of high-standard requirements has arrived.
Comparison: The New 2026 Framework
The new law introduces structural changes designed to attract committed investors and entrepreneurs. Here is how the high-standard requirements compare to the previous model:
| Requirement | Previous Framework | New 2026 High-Standard |
|---|---|---|
Passive Investment |
€600,000 |
€1,000,000 |
Housing Fund Option |
N/A |
€400,000 |
Real Estate Minimum |
€600,000 |
€800,000 |
Residency Bond/Fee |
€50,000 (Refundable) |
€50,000 (Non-refundable Contribution) |
Integration Requirement |
Voluntary |
Catalan A1/A2 (At renewal) |
1. From Deposits to National Contributions
One of the most significant shifts is the evolution of the €50,000 residency deposit. Formerly a refundable bond, this is now structured as a non-refundable state contribution. This measure ensures that every new resident directly supports the Principality’s infrastructure and social funds, reinforcing the “high-standard” social contract between the resident and the state.
2. A Focus on Sustainable Real Estate
To protect the local housing market and encourage quality development, the minimum investment for a single real estate unit has been set at €800,000. This ensures that the real estate market remains healthy and prevents the speculative pressures that often affect smaller mountain communities.
3. Cultural Integration: The Catalan Standard
Andorra is unique in its cultural heritage, and the 2026 law reflects a desire for residents to be part of that fabric. New residents will now be required to demonstrate a basic proficiency in Catalan (A1/A2 levels) during their residency renewal. We view this as a positive step toward building a more cohesive, integrated community of international founders and families.
Strategic Outlook: Why Quality Matters
If you are considering a move to Andorra, the primary takeaway from 2026 is that the Principality is no longer competing on “lowest cost,” but on highest value. Since 2022, we have seen entry requirements move steadily upward. History shows that in a limited territory like Andorra, the requirements only move in one direction. Waiting another year often results in higher thresholds or more rigorous compliance. By meeting the current high-standard criteria today, you are locking in your place in one of the world’s most stable and exclusive environments.
How JH Corporate Services Navigates the Change
In a shifting legal environment, expertise is the only safeguard. At JH Corporate Services, we provide more than just administrative support; we offer:
BOPA-Ready Compliance: Ensuring your dossier is perfectly aligned with the latest gazetted laws.
Asset Strategy: Helping you navigate the €1,000,000 investment requirement through the most efficient financial or real estate vehicles.
Lifestyle Integration: From language resources to banking, we ensure your transition to high-standard living is seamless.
