Residency visa with a right to work for a US citizen. Hard to get?

I don't personally know anyone here in Spain who has done it lately, perhaps someone will respond with better news than me ... I applied for the "Residence visa for self-employment" approximately 9 years ago, and after 30+ months (yes, almost 3 years!) of paperwork, lawyers fees, waiting in lines, etc ... I met someone who knew someone who helped me get my foot in the door ... they call them "enchufes" here in Spain.

It'd help if you were a professional soccer player ... they seem to breeze right through! ... I don't know if there have been any changes [to your advantage] in the recent past ...

Good luck!

Thanks nj_bcn!
What do you think would be the best bet for me to live and work in Spain?

nj_bcn wrote:

I... I applied for the "Residence visa for self-employment" approximately 9 years ago, and after 30+ months (yes, almost 3 years!) of paperwork, lawyers fees, waiting in lines, etc ... I met someone who knew someone who helped me get my foot in the door ... they call them "enchufes" here in Spain.!

I live in Barcelona and am trying to help a US friend do this. Did your application ever come through or did you just go another route through your enchufe?