How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain in 2025
Every year, I help hundreds of digital nomads and remote workers relocate to Spain, guiding them through the visa process and helping them navigate life in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries. Spain offers incredible opportunities to work remotely while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle, and the Digital Nomad Visa has become a top choice for many of my clients looking to experience this firsthand.
As someone who’s worked closely with immigration experts and cross-border tax advisors, I’ve seen first-hand how transformative moving to Spain can be for professionals from around the world. This blog, created in collaboration with top immigration specialists, brings together essential information to help you understand everything you need to apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa and make the move smoothly.
What Exactly is Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers who are non-EU nationals, and it allows you to live in Spain while working remotely for a non-Spanish company. It’s a residency visa that can be renewed for up to one year, and beyond that, you may be able to extend it. Whether you’re a freelancer working with clients from all around the world or a remote employee for an overseas company, this visa gives you the freedom to live in Spain, experience its culture, and explore Europe while continuing your work.
I’ve helped countless clients from all over the world — the US, the UK, Australia, and more — apply for this visa, and I’ve seen firsthand the freedom it brings.
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Who Can Apply to Spain Digital Nomad Visa
If you're a non-EU national and work remotely for a non-Spanish company, the Digital Nomad Visa could be perfect for you. But there are some key things to keep in mind:
Remote Workers: You must work for a company or have clients based outside of Spain. Freelancers, remote employees, and entrepreneurs all qualify if they meet the financial criteria.
Income Requirements: Yes, you’ll need to show that you can financially support yourself while living in Spain. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds.
Legal Residency: If you’re already living in Spain illegally, this visa isn’t for you. You must not have lived in Spain in the past five years.
Eligibility Requirements for Spain Digital Nomad Visa
Now let’s dive into the real details — the nitty-gritty of what you need to apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa:
| Document | Details | Apostille Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay. | No |
| Employment Contract or Proof of Freelance Work | Must show remote work for clients or companies outside Spain. | No |
| Proof of Income | Recent pay slips, bank statements, or other documentation proving consistent foreign income. | No |
| Health Insurance | Private health insurance valid in Spain, covering all medical expenses. | No |
| Criminal Record Certificate | Issued by the country of nationality or residence for more than one year. | Yes |
| Proof of Accommodation | Rental agreement, property deed, or invitation letter from a host in Spain. | No |
Income: For 2024, the minimum income requirement for a single applicant is €31,752 annually (€2,646/month). That might sound like a lot, but if you're working remotely or freelancing for clients abroad, it’s very achievable. If you're bringing a partner along, you’ll need to add an extra €5,220 per year for your spouse and €3,132 per year for each dependent child.
One thing I’ve seen from helping my clients: many assume that savings alone are enough to meet the income requirement. However, Spain specifically requires regular income — that means things like pensions, social security, royalties, or rental income. Freelance income and remote jobs typically qualify, but savings alone may not make the cut.
Proof of Employment: You’ll need to provide proof of employment or freelancing contracts with clients based outside of Spain. Your income should come from outside the country, and it’s essential to show that your work is remote.
Health Insurance: Spain wants to know that you’re covered. Private health insurance that’s valid in Spain is a must. Don't worry if you're not sure where to start — I can connect you with trusted providers that have worked with other clients in your situation.
Criminal Record Certificate: Like any visa, Spain will want to ensure you're in good standing. A clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence is required.
Proof of Financial Stability: Spain doesn’t want you coming in without a safety net. You need to show that you have enough financial resources to cover yourself and any dependents for the duration of your stay.
I always recommend working with a professional when it comes to organizing these documents, as there are a few technical details (like ensuring your income is regularly sourced) that can trip up applicants. But once you’ve got everything sorted, the application process becomes much smoother.
Financial Requirements for Spain Digital Nomad Visa (2025)
| Applicant Type | Annual Income Requirement | Monthly Income Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | €31,752 | €2,646 |
| First Dependent | €11,907 | €992 |
| Additional Dependents | €3,969 per child | €331 per child |
Want Help with Your Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
Get expert support to ensure a smooth application process! Use the link below to get 10% off your services with Bureaucracy.es:
Claim Your 10% DiscountHurry, this offer is exclusive for readers of Coming to Spain!
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Gathering the necessary documents is the first and most important step in applying for your Spain Digital Nomad Visa. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need to collect:
Proof of Employment or Freelance Work: If you’re an employee, you’ll need to provide a certificate from your employer confirming the length of your contract, explicit consent to work remotely from Spain, and your salary details. For freelancers, you’ll need to submit a contract that outlines the terms and conditions of your remote work. This contract must confirm that you are working for clients or a company outside of Spain, as the visa is specifically for non-Spanish income sources.
Financial Proof: You must demonstrate that you can support yourself while living in Spain. This can be done through recent pay slips, bank statements, or other documentation that proves consistent foreign income (such as salaries, pensions, royalties, or dividends). Freelancing income or remote work typically qualifies, but savings alone won’t meet the financial requirement for the visa.
Health Insurance: Private health insurance is required and must be valid in Spain. The insurance policy must provide coverage equivalent to Spain’s public healthcare system. Make sure the insurance is with a company authorized to operate in Spain.
Criminal Record Certificate: You’ll need to provide a clean criminal record certificate from your home country (or any country where you’ve lived in the past two years). This document must be officially translated into Spanish and, in some cases, legalized or apostilled. It’s important to note that obtaining this certificate can take time, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Proof of Residence: You’ll need to show proof of your legal residence in the consular district where you're applying. This could be a residence certificate from your home country or proof of residence in a third country, depending on your situation.
What Documents Need to Be Apostilled?
Certain official documents, such as the criminal record certificate, marriage certificate, and birth certificates (if applicable), need to be apostilled for Spain to accept them. An apostille is a certification that authenticates the origin of a public document, making it valid for use in another country. This process can be done by a designated authority in your home country.
💡 What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certification that authenticates the origin of a public document, making it valid for use in another country. If you’re submitting a criminal record certificate or any government-issued documents, you may need to get an apostille to verify its authenticity. This can be done by a designated authority in your home country.
Once you’ve gathered all of these documents, you’ll be ready to move on to the next steps of your application. Staying organized and starting early, especially for documents like the criminal record certificate, will help you avoid delays in the process.
Once you’ve gathered all of these documents, you’ll be ready to move on to the next steps of your application. Staying organized and starting early, especially for documents like the criminal record certificate, will help you avoid delays in the process.
What needs to be translated for a Spanish Digital Nomad visa?
For a digital nomad visa, you will need to translate your employment contracts, proof of income, and any additional documentation proving your eligibility for remote work. If you are looking for a top rated service to get your legal documents translated look no further Translayte offers the best service for sworn translations, providing quick, reliable, and precise translations that meet all the requirements set by the Spanish authorities. Using their service can help ensure that your visa application process goes smoothly, without unnecessary delays. Don’t take my word for it; check their Trustpilot reviews for unbiased opinions.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Once you’ve gathered all your documents, it’s time to submit your application. You have two options for submitting your application for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa:
Apply from Your Home Country’s Spanish Consulate or Embassy
If you're applying from your home country, you’ll need to submit your application at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. Be aware that some consulates, particularly those in high-demand areas, can have wait times of up to 3 months for an appointment. Additionally, during the summer months (June to August), many consulates experience a backlog due to reduced staff and holiday periods, which can cause delays in securing an appointment and in the processing of your visa.To avoid unnecessary delays, it’s crucial to plan ahead, especially if you’re applying during peak seasons. It’s a good idea to check with your consulate early to secure an appointment and be prepared for longer processing times during this period.
Apply from Within Spain
If you’re already in Spain on a valid tourist visa, you can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa from within the country. Sabine mentioned that applying from within Spain typically has faster processing times, with most applications processed within 20 business days. However, you must ensure you’ve been in Spain legally for at least 90 days on your tourist visa before you apply.
In both cases, you’ll need to pay the visa application fee at the time of submission. Be sure to verify the exact fee and submission requirements on the consulate or immigration office’s website. Once you’ve submitted your application, you can expect to wait for approval — but keep in mind that applying from a consulate abroad can take longer
Step 3: Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for approval. The processing time depends on where you apply:
If applying from a consulate abroad: The processing time can take up to three months. This timeline can vary based on the consulate, and during busy periods like summer, when consulates experience backlogs, it can take even longer. So, it’s essential to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays.
If applying from within Spain: If you're already in Spain on a valid tourist visa, the processing time is generally faster, typically taking up to 20 business days. One major advantage of applying from within Spain is the possibility of the “administrative silence” rule. If the Spanish government does not respond within the processing timeframe, you can submit a request for administrative silence, which means that the visa should be automatically approved.
Once your application is processed and approved, you’ll receive your visa, allowing you to live and work remotely in Spain!
Differences Between Applying for Spain Digital Nomad Visa as an Employee vs. a Self-Employed Individual
When applying for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, the documentation and requirements vary depending on whether you're an employee or self-employed. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Employment Contract / Proof of Remote Work:
For Employees:
You must submit your employment contract, which should include:
The length of your contract.
Explicit consent from your employer to work remotely from Spain.
Salary details proving consistent foreign income from your employer.
For Self-Employed Individuals:
You must provide freelance contracts or client agreements that clearly specify:
The length of the contract and the terms for remote work in Spain.
If you work with multiple clients, each contract should confirm your ability to work remotely from Spain.
2. Social Security Compliance:
For Employees:
A1 Form (CA3822): Employees must submit this form to confirm that they will continue paying U.S. Social Security (National Insurance) while working temporarily abroad.
Responsible Declaration: A statement from your employer confirming that you will comply with U.S. Social Security obligations while working remotely in Spain.
For Self-Employed Individuals:
A1 Form (CA3837): Self-employed individuals need this form to confirm that they will continue paying U.S. Social Security while working abroad temporarily.
Responsible Declaration: A statement from the self-employed applicant confirming their commitment to complying with U.S. Social Security obligations while in Spain.
3. Business Registration (Self-Employed Only):
For Employees:
Not required since employees are not responsible for business registration.
For Self-Employed Individuals:
You must provide a company certification issued by the U.S. government (e.g., IRS or state-level registration).
Proof of business activity such as tax returns or business income records is required.
4. Health Insurance:
For Employees:
Health insurance is not required if you maintain your U.S. health insurance while working remotely from Spain.
For Self-Employed Individuals:
Private health insurance is required. This insurance must cover all medical expenses in Spain and meet Spanish health regulations.
Public health insurance is only available after you have received your residency permit. Until then, private health insurance is essential for self-employed applicants.
5. Proof of Financial Means:
For Employees:
You need to provide proof of consistent income from your employer, such as pay slips, bank statements, or tax returns showing salary deposits.
The income must meet the minimum requirement of €2,646/month (2024).
For Self-Employed Individuals:
You need to prove that your freelance income meets the minimum requirement of €2,646/month.
Acceptable proof includes contracts, invoices, or bank statements showing payments from clients.
6. Tax Filing and Social Security Obligations:
For Employees:
Employees are already subject to U.S. tax and social security contributions. You must continue making these contributions while working remotely from Spain, confirmed by the A1 Form (CA3822).
For Self-Employed Individuals:
Self-employed applicants are responsible for tax filings and social security contributions both in the U.S. and Spain.
If you plan to register as a freelancer in Spain, you will need to comply with Spanish social security by registering with RETA (Régimen de Trabajadores Autónomos de la Seguridad Social española).
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa
While applying for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa can be a straightforward process, there are some common pitfalls that can delay your application or lead to rejection. Based on years of experience helping clients navigate the application, here are some key mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Meeting the Minimum Income Requirement
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa requires proof of regular income from foreign sources, such as remote work, freelancing, pensions, or rental income. A common mistake is relying too heavily on savings. While savings are important, they cannot substitute for steady, passive income. Be sure to meet the minimum income threshold (currently €31,752 annually for a single applicant in 2024).
2. Missing the Required Documentation
Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, such as:
Proof of employment or freelance contracts showing remote work with clients outside Spain.
Health insurance coverage valid in Spain.
A clean criminal record certificate, which must be translated into Spanish and legalized.
Missing or incomplete documents are one of the primary reasons applications are delayed or rejected.
3. Applying Too Late or at the Wrong Time
If you’re applying from a consulate abroad, securing an appointment can take up to three months, especially during peak seasons like summer. Make sure to start your application process well in advance to avoid being caught in a backlog. If you're already in Spain on a tourist visa, applying locally can expedite the process, but it’s still essential to be aware of the required documentation and any local office closures during peak periods.
4. Not Understanding the Physical Stay Requirements
Although the Digital Nomad Visa allows you to live and work in Spain, it’s important to understand the physical stay requirements. You can’t leave Spain for more than six months in a row or eight months in total in your first two years. This can limit your travel flexibility, so if you plan to be frequently on the move, consider other visa options that may be more suited to your lifestyle.
5. Assuming Your Family Automatically Qualifies
If you’re bringing family members with you, ensure you meet the additional income and savings requirements for them. For a spouse, you’ll need to add 50% of the base amount to your monthly income requirement, and for each dependent child, you’ll need to add 30% of the base amount.
📜 Living in Spain Planning Guide 📜
Before Moving to Spain
🔍 Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.
💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator? Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.
💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.
🧑⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.
If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.
🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.
Once in Spain
🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15 or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.
Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST).
💸 Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.
🚗 Need a rental car? Use DiscoverCars to easily compare and find the best deals for car rentals in Spain.
💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?
The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.
