If you're dreaming of moving to Spain and working remotely, you're not alone. I made the move to Barcelona back in 2018, and finding work that allowed flexibility was key to making my transition smooth.

In this article, I'll share some general tips, insights from my journey, and answer the most common questions about working remotely in Spain. Let's dive in!

Can I Work a Remote Job in Spain?

The short answer is yes, you can work a remote job in Spain. In fact, remote work has become more common here, especially after the pandemic, which shifted the mindset of many companies around the world. Whether you are employed by a Spanish company like me or work for an international one, living in Spain while working remotely is entirely possible.

One of the biggest benefits of a remote job is that it allows you to decide where you want to live. If you're drawn to Spain's beautiful cities like Barcelona or Valencia, or even want to live in a quaint village, a remote job can make that possible without limiting your options.

Pro Tip: Find Your Remote Job in Spain!

Platforms like FlexJobs are incredibly useful because they specialize in legitimate, remote, and flexible roles across different industries. Many of these roles don’t require you to speak Spanish, which is a huge plus if you’re just getting started in the country.

Can I Work Remotely Internationally?

Absolutely! Working remotely internationally is not only feasible but is becoming increasingly popular. Many companies have embraced remote work arrangements, allowing employees to live wherever they choose. The key to working internationally from Spain is making sure your employer understands and approves of your location.

In my case, before I found a job opportunity in Spain, I seriously considered working remotely for a US company. While I ultimately decided to take a different route, I did a lot of research on the topic, which is why I want to address it here. As long as you have a reliable internet connection, are within reasonable working hours for your employer, and fulfill your work commitments, it's possible to work remotely from Spain for an international employer.

Tip: Check Remote Work Policies Before Moving!

Before you decide to move, check your employer's policy on remote work from abroad. Some countries have restrictions, and certain employers may have limitations due to tax regulations or compliance. Make sure you communicate your plans clearly and get written approval if necessary.

Can I Work Remotely in the US from Spain?

Yes, you can work remotely for a US-based company from Spain, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The main challenge you’ll face is time zones. Depending on where your company is based in the US, you may need to work late into the evening or early in the morning to align with your team’s schedule.

In my research, I realized that while it was entirely possible, the time difference would mean some sacrifices to make sure I could be available during US business hours. In my experience, this kind of arrangement is manageable if you’re flexible with your routine. Additionally, make sure to consider your tax obligations—being a resident in Spain means you’ll likely have to pay taxes here, even if your employer is based in the US. Consulting a tax advisor who understands both US and Spanish regulations can be helpful to navigate this complexity.

Tip: Find Remote Roles Without Location Restrictions!

Platforms like Remote OK, We Work Remotely, and FlexJobs list many US-based remote roles that don’t restrict your location, making it a good starting point to find opportunities that fit your needs.

Can You Work in Spain as a Foreigner?

Yes, you can work in Spain as a foreigner, but there are different pathways depending on your circumstances. If you're an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you can live and work in Spain without needing a visa. However, if you’re a non-EU citizen, like I was, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit.

One of the more recent and exciting options for non-EU citizens is Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa. This visa is specifically designed for remote workers who want to live in Spain while working for an employer outside of Spain. It allows you to enjoy the perks of living in Spain legally while working remotely, and it provides a simpler pathway for staying longer than a typical tourist visa would allow.

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Why the Digital Nomad Visa Might Be a Great Option for You

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa is a relatively new opportunity, but it has already gained a lot of attention for good reasons. If you’re considering working remotely from Spain, this visa offers several advantages:

Live in Spain Legally While Working for a Foreign Company: Unlike traditional work visas that require a job offer from a Spanish employer, the Digital Nomad Visa allows you to work for companies based outside of Spain. This means you can continue working with your current employer or clients while living in Spain. It’s ideal for those who already have a remote job and want to make Spain their home.
Long-Term Stay with More Flexibility: The Digital Nomad Visa allows you to stay in Spain for an extended period—typically up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. Compared to a tourist visa, which restricts your stay to 90 days within a 180-day period, the Digital Nomad Visa provides you with the stability needed to set down roots, rent an apartment, and fully integrate into Spanish life.
Pathway to Residency: For many, one of the most significant benefits is that this visa can be renewed, providing a potential path to residency. If you fall in love with Spain and want to stay longer, the Digital Nomad Visa can be a stepping stone toward more permanent residency options.
Tax Benefits: Spain has also introduced tax incentives for digital nomads. Under the Beckham Law, certain non-residents may be able to benefit from reduced tax rates on their income, making it financially attractive to live and work from Spain. This can be especially beneficial if your income is sourced from abroad, as it reduces the financial burden of double taxation.
Access to the Spanish Lifestyle: Let’s face it—Spain is an amazing place to live. The culture, the food, the weather, and the quality of life are all reasons why people want to make Spain their home. With the Digital Nomad Visa, you can enjoy all of these benefits while continuing your remote work without having to worry about visa restrictions.

When I moved to Spain, this option didn't exist, today, the Digital Nomad Visa is a game-changer for remote workers wanting to experience life in Spain without the complications that come with other types of permits.

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Tips for Finding a Remote Job in Spain

Use Reliable Job Platforms: Websites like FlexJobs, LinkedIn, and Remote OK provide verified remote job listings that can be done from Spain.
Highlight Your Remote Skills: When applying for remote positions, emphasize your ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and communicate clearly across different time zones.
Network: Join online communities or local expat groups. Spain has a thriving digital nomad community, and connecting with like-minded people can lead to job leads or helpful advice.
Check Visa Requirements: Make sure you understand the visa requirements for remote work in Spain. The new Digital Nomad Visa might be the perfect option for you.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Spain and working in Spain was one of the best decisions I ever made. The beautiful weather, the culture, the food—it all makes the work-life balance so much better. While it does come with some challenges, like dealing with visas or time zones, the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

If you're dreaming of working remotely in Spain, take advantage of all the resources available, plan carefully, and don’t hesitate to take the leap. There are plenty of opportunities out there—you just need the right tools and mindset to make it happen. Platforms like FlexJobs and Remote OK can be great allies in your journey to find remote work that allows you to live your dream life in Spain.

DISCOVER IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE FOR A SPANISH WORK VISA!

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