Nestled high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra is one of Europe's smallest and most unique countries. With just 80,000 residents spread across 468 km², this principality draws expats with its remarkably low taxes (a maximum 10% income tax), world-class skiing, and an exceptional quality of life. Whether you are a remote worker seeking a tax-efficient base, a retiree craving mountain scenery, or a family looking for one of the safest countries on earth, Andorra has plenty to offer. This guide covers everything from residency permits and healthcare to banking, housing, and daily life so you can plan your move with confidence.
Andorra is not a member of the European Union, but it is Schengen-adjacent — there are no hard border controls with France or Spain, making travel across the Pyrenees seamless. The official language is Catalan, though Spanish, French, and increasingly English are widely spoken. The euro (€) is the de facto currency. Read on for the full picture.
Andorra at a Glance
Why Move to Andorra in 2026
- Ultra-low taxes: Personal income tax tops out at just 10%, one of the lowest rates in Europe. Corporate tax is also capped at 10%.
- Exceptional safety: Andorra consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, with very low crime rates.
- Outdoor lifestyle: Grandvalira and Vallnord ski resorts, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing are right on your doorstep.
- Affordable cost of living: Despite its tax-haven reputation, everyday costs are moderate compared to neighbouring France and Spain.
- Strategic location: Border-free access to France and Spain; Barcelona and Toulouse airports are both about three hours away by car.
- Duty-free shopping: Andorra has no VAT — shoppers enjoy significant savings on electronics, alcohol, tobacco, and luxury goods.
- High-quality public services: Excellent infrastructure, clean environment, and a well-funded healthcare system through the CASS.
- Favourable residency options: Multiple pathways including the Residència Activa (active residence, for those investing or working) and Residència Passiva (passive residence, for those not working locally).
Moving Costs to Andorra
Understanding the financial aspects of your move is crucial for proper planning. Andorra has no airport, so most shipments arrive by road from France or Spain. Costs vary by shipment size, origin, and whether you use a dedicated or shared container.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book a shared container (groupage) if you have under 15 m³ of belongings.
- Ship during off-peak seasons (September–November) for lower rates.
- Declutter before the move — less volume means lower costs.
- Get at least three quotes from movers experienced in Andorra relocations.
Real-life case: "I relocated to Andorra la Vella from London with roughly 12 cubic metres of belongings via a shared container from Toulouse. The total cost including customs processing and door-to-door delivery was around €2,300. Transit took about three weeks. The mover coordinated everything — I only had to show my passport at customs." — James T., moved in January 2026
Visa & Residency Requirements
Andorra is not an EU member and has no freedom-of-movement agreement with the EU. However, its open borders with France and Spain (Schengen-adjacent) mean that short stays up to 90 days are straightforward for most nationalities. Long-term residency requires a specific Andorran residence permit.
Short-Term Stays (Up to 90 Days)
Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the US, Canada, Australia, and many other nations can visit Andorra for up to 90 days without a visa. Since Andorra has no airport, you enter through France or Spain (Schengen zone). Your 90-day allowance is counted within the broader Schengen framework.
Long-Term Residency: Main Categories
1. Residència Activa (Active Residence)
- Who it is for: Individuals who will work, run a business, or invest in Andorra.
- Requirements: Constitute an Andorran company with >34% ownership, hold a management role, contribute to CASS social security, and make a €50,000 non-refundable payment to the state (changed under Omnibus 2 Law, 2026 — previously a refundable AFA deposit). Must spend at least 183 days per year in the country.
- Work rights: Permitted to be self-employed or employed in Andorra.
- Processing time: 2–4 months.
- Duration: Valid for two years, renewable. After 20 years of continuous residence you may apply for permanent residency.
2. Residència Passiva (Passive Residence / Non-Lucrative)
- Who it is for: Retirees, investors, or individuals with independent income who do not plan to work in Andorra.
- Requirements: Minimum investment of €1,000,000 in Andorran assets (€800,000 per dwelling for real estate; €400,000 if invested in the Housing Fund / Fons d'Habitatge). Non-refundable payment of €50,000 to the state (plus €12,000 per dependent under Omnibus 2 Law, 2026). Demonstrate income equivalent to 300% of the annual minimum salary (~€46,554 in 2026), plus 100% per dependent. Purchase or rent a property in Andorra. Hold private medical insurance. Minimum stay: 90 days per year.
- Work rights: Not permitted to work in Andorra.
- Processing time: 2–4 months.
- Duration: Renewable annually.
3. Residency for Professionals with International Projection
- Who it is for: Athletes, artists, researchers, and other professionals of international renown.
- Requirements: Demonstrated international profile; spend at least 183 days per year in Andorra.
- Work rights: Limited to their specific professional activity.
Required Documents for Residency Applications
- Valid passport (minimum six months validity)
- Criminal background check from your country of origin (apostilled)
- Proof of accommodation in Andorra (rental contract or property deed)
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, investment proof)
- Health insurance valid in Andorra
- Completed application forms from the Servei d'Immigració (Immigration Service)
Registration: Empadronament and NRT
Empadronament (Municipal Registration)
Once you have accommodation, you must register with your parish (comú). This is called the empadronament — the municipal population register. It is required to access healthcare, enrol children in school, and obtain various administrative services.
Required documents:
- Passport or national ID card
- Residence permit (or conditional approval letter)
- Rental contract or property deed
- Completed registration form from the parish office
Getting Your NRT (Número de Registre Tributari)
The NRT is Andorra's tax identification number. Every resident who works, earns income, or opens a bank account needs one. It is issued by the Agència Tributària d'Andorra (Andorran Tax Service).
- When to apply: As soon as you receive your residence permit, or at the same time as your residency application.
- Required documents: Passport, residence permit, completed application form.
- Processing time: Usually issued within 1–2 weeks.
- Why you need it: Employment contracts, bank accounts, tax filings, and property purchases all require an NRT.
Finding Housing in Andorra
Andorra's housing market is compact but competitive, particularly in popular parishes. Most newcomers rent initially before deciding whether to buy. The rental market favours furnished apartments, though unfurnished options exist. Tenant protections are solid — leases are typically 12 months with clear notice periods.
Average Rents by Parish (2026)
Local Rent Terminology
- Lloguer (Rent): The base monthly rent.
- Fiança (Deposit): Security deposit, typically 1–3 months' rent, held by the landlord.
- Despeses comunes (Community fees): Shared building maintenance costs, sometimes included in rent.
- Lloguer amb mobles / sense mobles: Furnished / unfurnished rental.
How to Find Housing
Online Platforms:
- Immobiliària: Local Andorran estate agents (search online or visit offices in Andorra la Vella).
- Fotocasa / Idealista: Spanish platforms that also list Andorran properties.
- Local Facebook groups: "Andorra Expats" and similar groups frequently list rentals.
Local Resources:
- Walk around your target parish — many rentals are advertised via window signs in local agencies.
- Ask at the parish office (comú) for guidance on available housing.
Tips for Foreigners Finding Housing
- Start your search at least one month before your planned move date.
- Have your documents ready (passport, NRT, proof of income) — landlords often act fast.
- Be prepared to pay the first month's rent plus deposit upfront.
- Consider temporary accommodation (Airbnb, serviced apartments) for your first few weeks while searching.
- Negotiate — especially for longer leases of 2+ years.
Rental Agreement & Legal Protection
- Leases are typically 12 months, renewable.
- Landlords must give at least two months' notice for non-renewal.
- Tenants can terminate with one month's notice after the first year.
- Deposits must be returned within one month of lease end, minus documented damages.
Warning: Rental Scams
- Never transfer money without viewing the property in person.
- Be wary of landlords who claim to be abroad and cannot show the apartment.
- Use established agencies or verified platforms.
- Confirm the landlord's ownership through the Comú (parish office).
Healthcare & Insurance
Andorra's healthcare system is excellent by European standards. It is funded through the CASS (Caixa Andorrana de Seguretat Social), the national social security body. Coverage is mandatory for all residents, and contributions are deducted from salaries.
CASS Healthcare Coverage
- Outpatient care (CAPs): CASS covers 75% of costs; patient pays 25%
- Hospitalization: CASS covers 90% of costs; patient pays 10%
- Employee contribution: 6.5% of gross salary
- Employer contribution: 15.5% of gross salary
- Self-employed: 22% total (10% general branch + 12% retirement)
- Eligibility: All residents with valid residence permit must register with CASS
- Best for: Comprehensive public healthcare for all residents
Private Health Insurance
- Cost: €80–€250/month depending on age, coverage level, and provider.
- Coverage: Dental, optical, private hospital rooms, international coverage, and shorter waiting times.
- Eligibility: Available to all residents; often used to supplement SAAS co-payments or cover services not included in the public system.
- Best for: Expats who want international coverage or want to avoid out-of-pocket co-payments.
Top Insurance Providers (Supplementary)
- SAAS: The mandatory public healthcare provider — no private alternative replaces it.
- Andorra Segurs: Local broker offering supplementary health and travel insurance.
- Admedic: Provides supplementary and international health plans.
- International providers (Cigna, Allianz): Offer global health plans valid in Andorra, useful for frequent travellers.
Out-of-Pocket Costs (Without Supplementary Insurance)
- GP visit: €5–€15 (after CASS reimbursement)
- Specialist consultation: €15–€40
- Prescriptions: 15–40% co-pay depending on the medication
- Dental (basic): Generally not covered by CASS — €50–€150 per visit
Banking & Finance
Andorra has a well-developed banking sector with a long tradition of financial services. Despite past reputational issues, Andorran banks are now fully compliant with international transparency standards (CRS/AEOI).
Opening a Bank Account
- When: As soon as you have your residence permit and NRT.
- Required documents: Passport, NRT, proof of residence (rental contract or utility bill), proof of income or employment.
- Top banks for expats:
- Andbank: One of the oldest banks, strong in private banking and wealth management. English-speaking staff available.
- MoraBanc: Full-service bank with modern digital banking, competitive fees, and good expat support.
- Creand (formerly Crèdit Andorrà): The largest bank in Andorra, offering retail banking, mortgages, insurance, and investment products.
- Account types: Current accounts, savings accounts, term deposits, and investment accounts are available.
- Monthly fees: €0–€10 depending on the bank and account type.
- Debit card: Issued free or for a small annual fee; widely accepted in Andorra and abroad.
- International transfers: €5–€25 per transfer depending on amount and destination; SEPA transfers within the EU are cheaper.
Payment Culture
- Cash is still widely used in smaller shops and markets.
- Contactless payments and card payments are increasingly common in supermarkets, restaurants, and larger stores.
- Mobile payment apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are supported by most major banks.
- Andorra is outside SEPA but transfers to/from Spain and France are straightforward.
Tax System in Andorra
Andorra's tax system is one of the most attractive in Europe. The principality did not introduce personal income tax until 2015, and rates remain extremely low.
Key Tax Rates (2026)
Tax Residency
You are considered an Andorran tax resident if you spend more than 183 days per year in the country or if your primary economic interests are in Andorra. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed only on Andorran-source income.
Double Taxation Agreements
Andorra has signed double tax treaties with around 20 countries, including France, Spain, Portugal, Luxembourg, the UAE, Liechtenstein, Malta, Cyprus, and others. These agreements ensure you are not taxed twice on the same income. Check the Govern d'Andorra website for the current list of treaty countries.
Cost of Living in Andorra
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Comparison with Neighbours
- vs Barcelona, Spain: Roughly 5–10% cheaper for daily expenses; rent is comparable but taxes are far lower.
- vs Toulouse, France: Similar cost of living, but Andorra's tax advantages make a significant difference for higher earners.
- vs London, UK: Andorra is 30–40% cheaper across most categories.
Language & Culture
Do You Need Catalan?
Catalan is the official language and the language of government, schools, and public signage. However, Spanish is almost universally spoken due to the large number of Spanish residents and workers. French is common in the northern parishes. English is growing, especially among younger residents and in the tourism and finance sectors, but it is not yet widely spoken in government offices or by older residents. Learning at least basic Catalan or Spanish will make daily life much easier.
Useful Catalan Phrases
Cultural Norms & Etiquette
Greetings:
- A handshake is standard in formal settings. Close friends greet with two cheek kisses (left first, then right).
- Use "Senyor" / "Senyora" (Mr / Ms) until invited to use first names.
Meals and socialising:
- Lunch is the main meal (13:00–14:30). Dinner is lighter and later (20:00–21:00).
- Invitations to someone's home often involve bringing wine or dessert.
- Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.
Outdoor culture:
- Andorrans are passionate about the outdoors. Skiing in winter, hiking and mountain biking in summer — joining outdoor groups is one of the best ways to integrate socially.
Social Integration
- Expat communities: Facebook groups such as "Andorra Expats" and "Expats in Andorra" are active and welcoming.
- Sports clubs: Ski clubs, hiking groups, cycling teams, and climbing associations are popular.
- Language exchanges: Informal Catalan/Spanish-English language exchanges are held in cafés in Andorra la Vella.
- Parish events: Each parish holds local festivals (festa major) in summer with concerts, traditional dances, and communal dinners.
Customs & Import Rules
Used household goods and personal belongings can generally be imported duty-free if owned and used for at least six months and intended solely for personal use. Submit a customs declaration with a detailed inventory, passport, and proof of residence at the border. New or commercial goods, high-value electronics, and restricted items (firearms, specific medications, controlled substances) may be subject to duties or require import permits. Andorra's IGI (Indirect General Tax) is just 4.5%.
Real-life case: "When I moved from Madrid to Escaldes-Engordany, I packed a van with furniture, clothes, and electronics. I prepared a detailed inventory in Spanish and Catalan and presented it at the border along with my residence permit. Since everything had been used for over a year, I paid no duty. The whole process took about 30 minutes." — Carlos G., moved in March 2026
Pet Relocation
Bringing pets into Andorra requires compliance with EU animal health regulations. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by an EU pet passport or official veterinary health certificate. Pets from non-EU countries may require a rabies antibody blood test and possibly quarantine. There are no breed-specific bans, but leash and muzzle rules apply in public. Veterinary clinics are available in all main parishes.
Driving & Vehicle Import
Importing a Vehicle
Vehicles brought into Andorra must pass a technical inspection at the Servei de Trànsit (Andorran Traffic Service). Requirements include valid registration documents, proof of ownership, technical compliance certificates, and emissions testing. Cars from outside the EU may be subject to customs duties.
Driver's Licences
- EU/EEA driver's licences are valid for the first 90 days after establishing residency.
- After 90 days, you must exchange your licence for an Andorran driver's licence (Permís de conduir) at the Servei de Trànsit. Usually no test required for EU holders.
- Non-EU licence holders may need to pass a theoretical and/or practical driving test depending on the issuing country.
- Drive on the right. Winter tyres or snow chains are legally required from November to April on many mountain roads.
- Petrol is significantly cheaper than in France or Spain thanks to duty-free status.
Education
Andorra offers three public school systems: the Andorran curriculum (taught in Catalan, free for residents), the Spanish curriculum (Colegio Español), and the French curriculum (École Française). Private and international options are limited due to the country's size. For higher education, the Universitat d'Andorra (UdA) offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, though many students commute to universities in Barcelona or Toulouse.
Where to Find Tools and Resources
ReloAdvisor Tools:
- Volume calculator
- Video survey
- Moving cost calculator
Official Andorra Resources:
- Govern d'Andorra (Immigration/Residency): https://www.govern.ad/ca/tematiques/immigracio
- Agència Tributària d'Andorra (Tax Service): https://www.govern.ad/ca/tematiques/impostos-taxes-i-duana
- CASS (Social Security): https://www.cass.ad
- Govern d'Andorra (Government Portal): https://www.govern.ad
Expat Communities:
- Facebook: "Andorra Expats" group
- Facebook: "Expats in Andorra" group
- InterNations Andorra: https://www.internations.org
Related Guides:
- Moving to Spain
- Moving to France
- Moving to Portugal