Spanish Residence Permit for a Digital Nomad - Artyom's Case Study from Moscow

Artyom L. is an IT entrepreneur from Moscow working in the field of web development and digital marketing. He runs an online agency with team members located in different countries, operating without a centralized office. Over the past two years, Artyom has been actively traveling across Europe and Southeast Asia while continuing to work remotely. Recently, however, he decided to find a permanent home and settle in a stable EU jurisdiction. Artyom chose Spain as the ideal country for both living and working.

Client’s Objective

Artyom’s primary goal was to obtain a Spanish residence permit as a digital nomad. This status offered several advantages:

• Legal residence in a European country;
• The ability to travel freely within the Schengen Area;
• A comfortable lifestyle by the sea with a mild climate;
• A tax system with potential benefits;
• Developed infrastructure for IT and tech professionals.

Why the Digital Nomad Visa?

The Digital Nomad Visa (residence permit for remote workers and freelancers) was the perfect fit for Artyom. This type of legalization allows individuals to legally work remotely for foreign companies while living in Spain. Key aspects of the process include:

• Proof of a remote income of at least €2,800 per month (as of 2025);
• No requirement to open a business in Spain or hire local staff;
• A relatively transparent and timely legalization process;
• A 2-year residence permit with the option for renewal.

Why Apply from Georgia?

In January 2025, at the time of application, Artyom was residing in Tbilisi. On the advice of GARANT.in experts, he applied through the Spanish consulate in Georgia. This expedited the visa process and allowed him to avoid returning to Russia. In addition, the Spanish consulate in Tbilisi offered a convenient appointment and communication system, which significantly simplified the application process.

Document Preparation and Application Process

GARANT.in specialists held an online consultation with Artyom to discuss his business structure, income sources, and relocation plans. It was confirmed that the Digital Nomad Visa was the most suitable option.

Document Preparation

All required documents were gathered and verified:

• Proof of remote income (contracts, bank statements, accountant’s letters);
• Company registration outside Spain;
• Motivation letter;
• Health insurance valid in Spain;
• Apostilled and translated police clearance certificate;
• Long-term rental agreement in Valencia (minimum one year);
• Resume and evidence of professional qualifications.

Application Submission

GARANT.in’s legal team arranged the submission of Artyom’s application to the Spanish consulate in Tbilisi. All documents were translated, notarized, and assembled according to official requirements.

Visa Approval and Arrival in Spain

Three weeks later, Artyom received his visa approval. He flew to Spain and activated the visa, initiating the process of obtaining the tarjeta de identidad de extranjero (TIE) — the foreigner’s identity card.

Resident Card Process

Immediately after arriving in Valencia, Artyom applied for his TIE. The process involved:

• Scheduling an appointment at the local police station;
• Preparing photographs, visa copies, rental contract, and proof of address;
• Submitting biometric data;
• Receiving a temporary receipt (resguardo);
• After approximately 30 days, collecting the plastic resident card valid for two years.

Results and Benefits

Artyom now lives and works in Valencia — a city with a warm climate, affordable housing, and high quality of life. He has obtained legal status with the possibility of extension up to five years and the right to apply for family reunification in the near future.

His new status allows him to travel freely within the Schengen Area and also opens the possibility of applying for tax benefits, depending on eligibility at the time of application.

“Working with GARANT.in was very convenient — everything went according to plan, with no surprises. I especially appreciated the clear strategy and support with complex documentation and translations. Now I live in Valencia, work remotely, and feel free. Thanks to the whole team!”

The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain – An Ideal Choice for Remote Professionals

If you work online and are looking to obtain a new migration status in Europe, Spain offers a clear and legal path to relocation. The GARANT.in team will support you every step of the way — from the first consultation to receiving your resident card!