Spain Digital Nomad Visa - Conditions and Features

The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain is a long-term permit that allows applicants to enter and reside in the country while working remotely. This visa is specifically designed for individuals employed in the IT or digital communication sectors. Applicants must prove employment with a foreign company or demonstrate that they provide regular services to businesses outside Spain.

The visa application process takes 15–45 days, is valid for one year, and grants the holder a residence permit (residencia) for up to three years. Applicants must apply for a residence permit within the first year of living in Spain, and the status can be extended for another two years. This visa stands out from others due to its fast processing time and fewer requirements.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa, and Who Can Apply?

Spain introduced its Digital Spain 2026 Agenda in 2020 to promote the country's digital transformation. This program aims to attract talented individuals and foster technological growth. Digital nomads—professionals who work online and can live anywhere—are key to achieving these goals.

Applicants need not be IT experts; professionals such as designers, marketers, and entrepreneurs are also eligible. Key requirements include:

• A minimum monthly income of €2,646.
• A higher education degree or substantial work experience in digital fields.

The visa program encourages entrepreneurship, startups, and digital integration into public services while expanding 5G coverage. The conditions and requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa are governed by Law No. 28/2022 on Startups and Law 14/2013 on Entrepreneur Support and Internationalization.

7 Benefits of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

In 2023, Spain ranked first in the Digital Nomad Index by Visa Guide, which evaluated tax policies, housing costs, leisure options, internet connectivity, and program requirements. Some benefits include:

1. An ideal environment for remote workers: Spain offers excellent infrastructure, affordable living, access to coworking spaces, Mediterranean cuisine, and high-quality healthcare.
2. Resident status for the whole family: The visa allows digital nomads to apply for residence permits for themselves and their family members.
3. Schengen and EU travel freedom: Residents can travel freely across Schengen countries and the EU, spending up to 90 days within 180 days in each country. Spain ranks 2nd in the Passport Index, allowing visa-free access to 193 countries.
4. Access to international banking services: Nomads can open bank accounts in the EU, apply for loans, and perform transactions in multiple currencies.
5. Free healthcare services: Residents are eligible for free public healthcare, while private healthcare is available through insurance policies. Spain ranks 4th globally in healthcare quality.
6. High-quality education: Residents can enroll their children in public schools or universities with the same rights as Spanish citizens.
7. Permanent Residency (PR) and citizenship: After 5 years of residency, nomads can apply for permanent residency and subsequently for citizenship after another 5 years. Spanish citizenship allows people to live and work across the EU.

Eligibility for the Digital Nomad Visa

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be over 18 years old.
• Have a higher education degree or 3+ years of work experience.
• Work for a foreign company or as a freelancer.
• Provide proof of a minimum monthly income of €2,646.
• Ensure their income from Spanish clients doesn’t exceed 20% of total earnings.
• Submit proof of a clean criminal record in both Spain and their home country.
• Provide evidence of housing in Spain, whether rented for at least a year or owned.
• Have health insurance with coverage of €30,000.

Additional income requirements apply for family members:

• +€992/month for a spouse.
• +€331/month per child under 18.

Application Process for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Key documents include:

• A valid passport (original and copies of all pages).
• A completed visa application form (MI-T).
• Proof of employment or a signed contract with a foreign employer (minimum duration: 3 months).
• Employer authorization for remote work.
• Proof of income (bank statements, salary slips).
• A criminal record certificate.
• Health insurance with coverage of €30,000.
• Proof of housing in Spain (rental agreement or property ownership).
• Proof of qualification (university degree, professional certifications).
• A medical certificate proving no contagious diseases.
• Payment receipt for visa fees.

For family members:

• Separate visa applications.
• Proof of financial dependency and relationship (e.g., birth or marriage certificates).

Step 2: Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted:

1. At a Spanish consulate/embassy: Applicants receive a Type D visa, valid for one year.
2. Within Spain: Those already in the country on another visa type can apply directly for a residence permit valid for three years.

Step 3: Receive and Register

Upon approval:

• A visa is issued within 10 working days.
• The nomad must travel to Spain, register their address, and obtain a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).
• Apply for a residence permit within 30 days before the visa expires.

Taxation for Digital Nomads in Spain

Digital nomads in Spain are subject to taxation if they reside in the country for 183+ days annually. Spain has tax treaties with over 90 countries to avoid double taxation. Nomads can benefit from the “Beckham Law”, which offers a reduced tax rate:

• 24% on income below €600,000 annually.
• 45% for income exceeding €600,000.

This reduced tax rate applies for 6 years.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa opens doors to a modern, vibrant lifestyle, offering unparalleled professional and personal benefits. If you’re considering applying, the experts at GARANT.in are ready to assist with document preparation, legal guidance, and smooth navigation of the visa process.