How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

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What if your next Zoom meeting could be set against the backdrop of the Alhambra Palace or the serene beaches of Costa del Sol? Spain’s digital nomad visa is your ticket to experiencing a unique blend of work and pleasure. Applying for a Digital Visa in Spain not only allows you to continue your professional endeavors remotely but also immerses you in Spain’s rich culture. Whether you're a freelancer or a remote worker, Spain offers a perfect setting to enhance your productivity and enrich your life with unforgettable experiences.

What is Spain Digital Nomad Visa

The digital nomad visa is designed for non-EU nationals who work remotely for non-Spanish companies. It grants temporary residency for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. This visa is ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees who wish to experience Spain's rich culture, diverse landscapes, and excellent quality of life.

Who Can Apply to Spain Digital Nomad Visa

To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Non-EU/EEA Nationals: The visa is available to people from outside the EU/EEA.

  2. Legal Residency Status: You should not be living in Spain illegally.

  3. Recent Residency: You should not have lived in Spain in the last five years.

Eligibility Requirements for Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:

  1. Employment Status: You must be employed by a non-Spanish company or have clients outside of Spain if you're a freelancer. IMPORTANT NOTE: It is worth noting that the way Spain drafted the digital nomad visa rules makes it incredibly difficult to get it if you want to work remotely for an employer (as opposed to freelancing).

  2. Income: You need to earn at least €31,752 per year as a single applicant as of 2024. This may be subjected to change in the coming years.

  3. Professional Experience: Have at least three years of professional experience or be a recent graduate (within the last two years) from a reputable university.

  4. Health Insurance: You must obtain private health insurance that covers you in Spain. Here is a list of the best private insurance to apply for Spain Digital Nomad Visa.

  5. Clean Criminal Record: Provide a clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence.

Specific Requirements for International Workers Applying for Spain Digital Nomad Visa

  1. Proof of Employment for at Least 3 Months: You need a certificate from your employer stating the following:

    • For Employees:

      • Length of the contract.

      • Explicit consent to work remotely in Spain.

      • Salary details.

    • For Self-Employed Individuals:

      • Length of the contract.

      • Terms and conditions to work remotely in Spain.

  2. Company Certification: A certificate issued by the Government Companies House, declaring the date of creation of the company (or companies) and the type of business.

  1. If Registered with the British National Social Security:

    • Responsible Declaration: A statement by the company (if the applicant is an employee) or the applicant (if self-employed), committing to comply with the British social security system obligations before starting any work-related activity.

    • A1 Form Issued by HMRC:

      • For Employees: Certificate confirming you will pay UK National Insurance when working temporarily abroad (CA3822).

      • For Self-Employed: Certificate to confirm you will pay UK National Insurance while self-employed abroad temporarily (CA3837).

  2. If Registered with the Spanish National Social Security:

    • Registration Certificate: Proof of registration for both the company and employee. If self-employed, a certificate of registration with RETA (Régimen de Trabajadores Autónomos de la Seguridad Social española).

    • Responsible Declaration: A statement by the company (if the applicant is an employee) or the applicant (if self-employed), committing to comply with Spanish social security obligations before starting any work-related activity. If still registered with the British social security system, this must be explicitly confirmed in the declaration.

  3. Proof of Financial Means: Demonstrate financial resources amounting to at least 200% of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage. For family members:

    • For the first family member: Additional financial means of at least 75% of the Spanish minimum wage.

    • For each additional family member: 25% of the Spanish national minimum wage is required.

    • Acceptable proof includes work contracts, bank statements, payslips, etc.

How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting your application, collect the following documents:

  • NIE number: Applicant must apply for a NIE number prior to visa application. 

  • National Visa Application Form: Each applicant, or their representative, must fill out and sign a visa application form.

  • Photography: A recent, passport-size, color photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any garments concealing the oval of the face.

  • Valid Passport: Original and a photocopy of the page or pages with the biometric data. The passport must be valid for at least one year and have at least two blank pages. Passports issued more than ten years ago are not accepted.

    • Valid Residence Permit in the UK for non-British nationals.

  • Criminal Record Certificate: Applicants of legal age must submit the original and a copy of the criminal record certificate(s) issued by their country or countries of residence for the past two years.

  • Proof of Residence in the Consular District: The applicant must provide proof of their legal residence in the consular district. To verify your consular district, please visit the relevant web section of the consulate.

  • Proof of the Representative's Identity and Capacity: If the visa application is submitted through a representative, a copy of the ID card or passport of the representative and a copy of the power of attorney or official document accrediting representation must be submitted. The originals must be shown at the time of the application. Foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, submitted with an official translation into Spanish.

  • Payment of the Visa Fee: Visa fee payment is compulsory and must be made at the same time when submitting a visa application. The fee has to be paid in local currency and is subject to regular changes due to currency fluctuations. Please check the list of consular fees.

  • Health Insurance: Original and a copy of the certificate accrediting the public or private health insurance contracted with an insurance entity authorized to operate in Spain. The insurance policy must cover all the risks insured by Spain's public health system. The S1 form and proof of having registered it with the Spanish National Social Security are accepted as public health insurance.

IMPORTANT NOTE: All documents need to be translated to Spanish by a certified/sworn translator aka traductor jurado/a.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

You can apply for the digital nomad visa at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country. Here’s how:

  1. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately.

  2. Pay the Visa Fee: The fee varies, so check with the local consulate for the exact amount. In general, the fee for making your visa application is around €80. You will have to pay around €20 for your NIE which should be done before starting your application.

  3. Submit Your Documents: Provide the necessary documents along with your application form and fee receipt.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

The processing time for the digital nomad visa can vary. It typically takes about 10 days. During this period, the consulate may contact you for additional information or an interview. You can appeal a visa refusal within 1 month of the notice.

By following the outlined steps and ensuring you meet all requirements, you can successfully obtain your visa and start your adventure in Spain.

Pros and Cons of Spain's Digital Nomad Visa

Pros:

  • Living in Spain allows digital nomads to immerse themselves in a vibrant and diverse cultural environment.

  • Compared to other Western European countries, Spain has a relatively low cost of living. This includes affordable housing, food, and healthcare, making it easier to live comfortably and save money. You can check out the best places to live in Spain here to help you pick the city for you to settle in.

  • Spain’s mild climate, especially in coastal regions, allows for year-round outdoor activities. This is a significant advantage for those who enjoy a pleasant, sunny environment.

  • Spain’s location in Europe makes it easy to travel to other European countries. This proximity allows for frequent and affordable travel opportunities within the continent.

Cons:

  • Navigating Spain’s bureaucratic processes can be challenging. The visa application process might involve complex paperwork and long waiting times, which can be frustrating.

  • Spanish income taxes are higher than in other European countries. Digital nomad visa holders, as non-residents for tax purposes, will be subject to a fixed tax rate of 24% on income earned in Spain (excluding worldwide income) up to €600,000.