In Europe, it shares that status with Sark and, like Sark, Andorra is difficult to reach. The nearest airports are in Barcelona and Toulouse, more than 3 hours away by motorcar. The main town has a multitude of shops selling cigarettes, whisky, etc to day trippers. For the wealthy retiree, obtaining a residence permit is still relatively easy. He must show adequate assets, a clean police record and proof of intent actually to reside.
Preference is rumoured to be given to white mature applicants.
In acquiring property, foreigners are restricted to a single dwelling per family, the land area acquired not to exceed 1000 sq. While nothing in Andorran law prevents the co-principality from developing into an international financial centre, there appears to be great reluctance on the part of the authorities to see it happen. Andorran limited companies may be formed but must be under Andorran majority control and beneficial ownership. Their use by foreigners is thus restricted. Branches of foreign companies cannot be formally registered.