Moving to another country is an important decision. When children are involved, it means considering much more than employment, taxation or housing. Their education, well-being and ability to adapt to a new environment become equally important.
Every year, families from different countries consider making Andorra their new home. Its reputation for safety, natural surroundings, educational opportunities and possibilities for professional development are among the reasons why the Principality attracts international families.
However, relocating to Andorra with children requires careful planning.
Which residence permit does each family member need? How does the education system work? What languages will the children study in? How does healthcare coverage operate? When should the administrative procedures begin?
At NEXORY GROUP, we understand that behind every international family relocation lies a series of important decisions that need to be carefully coordinated.
In this guide, we explore the main considerations for families planning to start a new chapter in the Principality of Andorra.
1. Why Choose Andorra for Family Life?
Andorra offers a distinctive combination of mountain living, modern services, economic activity and geographical proximity to France and Spain.
For many families, one of its main attractions is the opportunity to live in a relatively small country where distances between the different parishes are manageable and outdoor activities are part of everyday life.
During winter, skiing and mountain sports play an important role in local life. In spring and summer, hiking, cycling and outdoor activities provide numerous opportunities for families to spend time together.
Andorra is also home to a multicultural community where people of different nationalities and linguistic backgrounds live and work.
Nevertheless, choosing Andorra as a place of residence also means adapting to local realities, including the housing market, transport, school calendars and administrative requirements.
Before making a final decision, families should carefully consider both the advantages of living in Andorra and their own practical needs.
2. Which Residence Permit Does a Family Need to Move to Andorra?
One of the first steps is to assess the immigration status of the parents and children.
Andorra offers several categories of residence permits, each with different requirements and rights.
Depending on the family's personal and professional circumstances, the following options may be relevant.
Residence and employment permit. This category applies to individuals who meet the requirements to work for an employer established in Andorra.
Residence and self-employment permit. This option may be available to certain entrepreneurs and professionals intending to carry out an economic activity in the Principality.
Residence without gainful activity. This category is intended for individuals who meet specific legal and financial requirements and do not intend to carry out ordinary professional activities in Andorra.
Other specific residence categories. Depending on the applicant's profile, permits relating to remote working, international business activities or other regulated circumstances may also be considered.
The appropriate route depends on several factors, including professional activity, financial resources, family composition and long-term plans.
It is equally important to assess the immigration status of minor children and any other relatives who intend to accompany the main applicant.
Family reunification and the corresponding residence authorisations are subject to specific legal conditions.
Obtaining a residence permit for one parent does not automatically mean that every family member will receive the same authorisation.
Before organising an international move, it is advisable to establish a residency strategy for the entire family.
3. Education in Andorra: Three School Systems
One of the most distinctive features of Andorra is the coexistence of three public education systems.
This provides international families with different educational pathways depending on their children's ages, academic backgrounds and future plans.
The Andorran Education System
The Andorran education system follows a multilingual approach, incorporating several languages throughout the learning process.
Catalan, the official language of the Principality, plays a central role, alongside French and Spanish within the educational programme.
For families planning to settle in Andorra on a long-term basis, this system may be particularly attractive because of its close connection with local society and culture.
The French Education System
The French education system follows the French academic structure and allows pupils arriving from France to continue their education within a familiar framework.
It can be particularly appealing to French-speaking families or those who wish to maintain continuity with the French curriculum.
This option may also be relevant for families considering future studies in France.
The Spanish Education System
The Spanish education system provides schooling based on the Spanish curriculum, with different educational options available in the Principality.
It may facilitate the transition for children arriving from Spain or for families wishing to maintain continuity with the Spanish education system.
Which School System Is Best for Your Children?
There is no single answer.
The choice depends on the child's age, language abilities, previous education and the family's future plans.
Other practical considerations include the location of the school, availability of places and admission procedures.
Our recommendation is to explore schooling options before choosing where to live.
The location of your children's school can have a significant impact on your family's daily routine.
4. What Languages Will Children Learn in Andorra?
Catalan is Andorra's official language, but everyday life in the Principality is distinctly multilingual.
Spanish, French and Portuguese are also widely present in different social and professional settings.
For families arriving from abroad, this linguistic diversity can provide valuable educational opportunities.
However, adapting to a new language environment may take time.
The language of instruction and the role of other languages depend on the education system and the child's academic level.
Before enrolling a child, parents should enquire about the school's language programme, integration arrangements and support available to newly arrived pupils.
Many children demonstrate a strong ability to adapt to new languages, but every child is different.
Age, personality and previous educational experience should all be considered when planning the transition.
5. Where Should Families Live in Andorra?
Andorra is divided into seven administrative parishes, each offering a different living environment.
Andorra la Vella is the country's main urban centre, with a wide range of shops, services, offices and commercial activity.
Escaldes-Engordany combines residential neighbourhoods, shopping areas and convenient access to numerous services.
La Massana may appeal to families who enjoy mountain surroundings and outdoor sports.
Ordino is known for its natural scenery, cultural heritage and residential atmosphere.
Encamp offers several residential areas and access to mountain destinations.
Canillo may be particularly attractive to families looking for a lifestyle closely connected to nature and winter sports.
Sant Julià de Lòria includes various residential communities and provides access towards the Spanish border.
Choosing where to live should not depend solely on property prices or the size of the accommodation.
Families should also consider the distance to schools, workplaces, transport connections, nearby services and winter travel conditions.
Furthermore, the rental housing market in Andorra can have limited availability.
It is therefore advisable to begin researching accommodation well in advance.
6. Healthcare and Medical Coverage for the Whole Family
Healthcare is another essential consideration when planning a move abroad with children.
Andorra has a healthcare system in which the Caixa Andorrana de Seguretat Social (CASS), the Andorran Social Security Fund, plays a central role.
However, healthcare entitlements and coverage depend on each family member's registration status and the applicable conditions.
Certain residence categories may also require evidence of specific health insurance or medical coverage.
Parents should assess the conditions under which their children may be covered as dependants, where applicable.
Before relocating, we recommend reviewing:
The healthcare situation of each family member.
Social security registration or insurance requirements.
Continuity of any ongoing medical treatment.
Relevant medical records and documentation.
Access to paediatric care and other healthcare services.
Addressing these matters before arrival can make the transition significantly easier.
7. How Much Does It Cost to Live in Andorra with Children?
Preparing a realistic family budget is one of the most important steps before relocating.
Although Andorra has certain distinctive tax characteristics, the actual cost of living depends on several factors.
Housing is often one of the largest expenses, particularly for families requiring properties with multiple bedrooms.
Other regular expenses may include:
Groceries and household purchases.
Electricity, heating and utilities.
Transport and vehicle expenses.
School meals and extracurricular activities, where applicable.
Insurance and healthcare costs.
Sports, leisure and family activities.
Initial relocation and settling-in expenses.
There is no single budget that applies to every family.
A couple with one young child will have different requirements from a family with several teenagers.
For this reason, preparing a personalised financial forecast is generally more useful than relying exclusively on broad cost-of-living estimates.
8. Helping Children Adapt to Life in Andorra
An international relocation is much more than an administrative process.
For children, moving abroad can mean leaving behind friends, teachers, activities and familiar routines.
Preparing them for the transition is therefore an important part of the relocation process.
Whenever possible, involving children in the preparations in an age-appropriate way can help them feel more comfortable with the change.
Visiting Andorra before the move, exploring potential schools and discovering the surrounding areas may help children imagine their new daily life.
Sports clubs, cultural activities and extracurricular programmes can also provide opportunities to make friends and become part of the local community.
However, every child adapts at a different pace.
A well-planned relocation should consider not only legal and financial requirements but also the emotional well-being of the entire family.
9. When Should You Start Planning Your Move to Andorra?
If your family intends to relocate in time for the beginning of the school year, it is sensible to begin planning several months in advance.
The process can be organised into different stages.
Step 1: Assess residency options. Identify the appropriate residence category for the parents and determine the procedures required for the children.
Step 2: Explore schools. Research the three education systems, individual schools and their admission requirements.
Step 3: Search for accommodation. Consider the most suitable parishes and assess actual housing availability.
Step 4: Prepare the documentation. Gather personal certificates, family records and supporting documents required for the relevant administrative procedures.
Step 5: Coordinate your arrival. Organise residence authorisations, healthcare coverage, schooling and the practical aspects of moving.
Processing times can vary depending on the residence category, applicable quotas, supporting documentation and the circumstances of each application.
For this reason, families should avoid committing to definitive relocation dates before assessing the administrative feasibility of their plans.
10. Common Mistakes When Moving to Andorra with Children
Several difficulties can be avoided through careful preparation.
Choosing a home before researching schools. The location may create unnecessary daily travel difficulties.
Assuming children automatically receive residence permits. Each family's circumstances must be assessed against the applicable legal requirements.
Overlooking school admission deadlines. Admission procedures and available places may influence the choice of school.
Underestimating housing costs. Understanding the local rental market is essential before making financial commitments.
Failing to arrange healthcare coverage. The healthcare situation of every family member should be properly considered.
Confusing immigration residency with tax residency. These are separate concepts that require individual assessment.
Waiting until arrival to begin every administrative procedure. Planning ahead can reduce complications and avoid rushed decisions.
NEXORY GROUP: Supporting Your Family's New Life in Andorra
At NEXORY GROUP, we understand that moving to another country with children involves much more than obtaining a residence permit.
It is a major life decision affecting employment, education, housing and the daily lives of every family member.
That is why our support begins with a personalised assessment of your circumstances and relocation objectives.
We review the residence options available to your family, prepare the relevant administrative documentation and help coordinate the different stages of your relocation project.
Our aim is to help families make informed decisions, anticipate administrative requirements and organise their arrival in Andorra with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Are you considering moving to Andorra with your children?
Contact NEXORY GROUP and tell us about your plans.
We would be delighted to assess your circumstances and help you prepare for this exciting new chapter.
NEXORY GROUP — Supporting your new life in Andorra, from the very first step.
This article was prepared for informational purposes in October 2026. Residency, schooling, healthcare coverage and other administrative requirements may vary according to individual circumstances and applicable legislation. Families should verify the relevant conditions before beginning any formal procedures.