With the growing trend of remote work, Spain has introduced the digital nomad visa, offering an opportunity for those who wish to live in the country while working remotely for foreign companies. This visa, introduced in 2022 as part of the Startup Law, aims to attract international talent and promote investment in the digital sector. In this article, we will explain how the visa works, its requirements, and the steps to apply.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa?
This visa is aimed at foreigners who wish to reside in Spain while working remotely for a company or employer based outside Spanish territory, or as self-employed individuals. The work must be conducted exclusively using telecommunications and information technology systems.
It is designed to attract highly qualified professionals, particularly in the tech and digital fields, who can contribute to the country’s economy without relying directly on a local employment contract.
Requirements to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa
To be eligible for this visa, several requirements must be met:
- Remote worker: You must be employed by a non-Spanish company or have a service contract with international clients. Your main activity cannot be related to companies in Spain, although collaboration with local companies is allowed as long as it does not exceed 20% of your total income.
- Freelancer or remote employee: You can apply whether you are a freelancer offering services to multiple companies or working remotely for a single foreign company. In both cases, you must provide evidence of the employment or contractual relationship with those companies.
- Proof of financial stability: You must prove that you have sufficient income to support yourself during your stay in Spain. The Immigration Regulations stipulate that applicants must have an income equivalent to 200% of the IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income), which is approximately 2,400 euros per month in 2024.
- Health insurance: It is mandatory to have private health insurance that covers you during your stay in Spain. The Spanish social security system is not automatically available to holders of this visa, so you must prove that you have adequate coverage for any medical emergencies. Additionally, a certificate of social security coverage from your country of origin is required, confirming that the applicant is covered during their stay in Spain. This requirement does not replace private health insurance but rather complements it.
- Criminal background check: The applicant must provide a criminal background certificate from their country of origin and any country where they have resided in the past five years.
Is it possible to apply for residency directly from Spain?
Yes, those who are already in Spain under a prior stay or another residence permit can submit their application directly from within the country. This simplifies the process for those who have already started their life in Spain and wish to regularize their status as digital nomads.
Documentation required for the Digital Nomad Visa application
To apply for the digital nomad visa, you will need to submit the following documentation:
- Completed application form.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- A valid passport with at least one year of validity.
- A criminal background certificate from the country where you have resided for the last five years, properly apostilled.
- Proof of residence in the consular jurisdiction. The visa applicant must provide evidence of legal residence in the country where the application is submitted.
- Work contract or documentation proving your employment relationship with foreign companies as a remote worker. If you are self-employed, you must present proof of your registration with RETA (self-employed workers’ regime).
- Proof of financial stability, either through pay slips, bank statements, or other documents demonstrating your monthly income.
- Payment of the visa fee.
- Private health insurance with coverage in Spain.
- Documentation proving your academic qualifications or professional experience.
Digital Nomad Visa application process
The process for applying for the digital nomad visa involves several key steps:
- Prepare the documentation: Collect all the necessary documents. Make sure everything is up-to-date and in order, as any mistakes could delay or invalidate your application.
- Submit the application at the Spanish consulate: If you are outside Spain, you must visit the Spanish consulate in your country of residence to submit the documents. You will also need to pay the consular fees, which vary by country.
- Wait for the decision: Once submitted, the consulate has 10 business days to process your application. If no response is received within this time, it is understood that the application has been denied.
- Obtain the visa: If your application is approved, you will receive a visa valid for an initial period of one year. Once in Spain, you can apply for renewal before it expires, provided you continue to meet the requirements.
- Foreigner Identification Card (TIE): Upon arrival in Spain, you must apply for your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) within 30 days of entering the country. This card identifies you as a legal resident in Spain and enables you to perform important tasks like opening a bank account or renting a home.
Renewal and tax benefits
The digital nomad visa is initially granted for 12 months, but it can be renewed for an additional two years as long as you continue to meet the established requirements. Furthermore, visa holders can benefit from certain tax advantages.
Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
In addition to allowing you to live in Spain, this visa offers several advantages:
- Residence permit for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal.
- Access to tax benefits: According to the Law 11/2021 on Measures to Prevent and Combat Tax Fraud, those who choose to reside in Spain under this visa can take advantage of the special tax regime for expatriates, also known as the “Beckham Law,” which allows them to be taxed at a reduced rate of 24% on the first 600,000 euros of annual income for up to six years.
- Mobility within the Schengen Area during the validity period of the visa.
- Possibility of bringing family (spouse and minor children) under certain conditions. The digital nomad visa also allows applicants to include immediate family members in the application. This means that your spouse and minor children can accompany you during your stay in Spain, provided you can demonstrate sufficient income to cover the expenses of all family members.
In summary, the digital nomad visa in Spain is an excellent option for those who wish to work remotely in one of the most attractive countries in Europe, enjoying its tax benefits and quality of life. However, it is important to know the requirements and follow the correct procedure to obtain the visa without complications. In case of doubts, it is always advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer to ensure a successful process.