Spain is not only known for its Mediterranean lifestyle, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage—but now also as a rising hub for international remote workers. Thanks to the recently implemented Digital Nomad Visa, Spain is opening its doors to non-EU citizens who want to work remotely while enjoying life in one of Europe’s most vibrant destinations.
This visa is part of Spain’s Startup Law (Ley de Startups) and aims to position the country as a leading destination for entrepreneurial and tech-savvy talent worldwide.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU remote workers, freelancers, or employees of foreign companies to legally live and work in Spain. It is designed for individuals who primarily earn income from outside Spain and want to take advantage of the country’s lifestyle and infrastructure without breaching tax or immigration laws.
While applicants must meet certain requirements, the visa offers a flexible and attractive path to residency, especially for digital professionals.
Key Benefits
Here’s why Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa stands out among other international options:
1. Legal Residency with Work Authorization
You’ll gain a legal residence permit valid for up to 3 years, with the option to renew for an additional 2 years. During this time, you’re allowed to work remotely for foreign companies and even take on freelance projects, as long as the income from Spanish clients doesn’t exceed 20% of your total earnings.
2. Family Inclusion
Your spouse, children, and dependent relatives can join you under the same visa, making Spain an ideal location for remote-working families. Each dependent must meet specific economic support criteria, but no separate work authorization is needed for accompanying spouses who also work remotely.
3. Access to EU Travel
With the residence permit, you can enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, giving you the freedom to explore Europe while keeping Spain as your home base.
4. Path to Permanent Residency
After 5 years of legal residence, Digital Nomad Visa holders can apply for long-term residency in Spain, with almost the same rights as Spanish citizens, including healthcare and education access.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, you must:
- Be a non-EU national.
- Work remotely for a company or clients located outside Spain.
- Have at least 3 months of employment or freelance relationship with your foreign employer/client.
- Prove a minimum monthly income of around €2,600 (or higher if bringing family).
- Have private health insurance valid in Spain.
- Provide a clean criminal record from the last 5 years.
- Hold a university degree or equivalent professional experience in your field.
Applications can be submitted from abroad at a consulate or within Spain (for example, while on a tourist visa).
Why Choose Spain?
Spain offers more than just paperwork advantages. It provides a dynamic ecosystem for remote workers:
- Global coworking hubs in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia.
- Excellent internet infrastructure and competitive cost of living.
- A growing community of international digital professionals.
- Quality public and private healthcare services.
- A diverse range of climates and lifestyles—from beach towns to mountain retreats.
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is not just a permit—it’s a strategic opportunity for remote workers and freelancers to live in Europe and enhance their quality of life.
Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a tech specialist, or a remote team member, this visa opens the door to an exciting chapter in Spain.
Want help applying?
Fuster & Associates offers end-to-end legal support to ensure a smooth and compliant relocation to Spain. Visit fuster-associates.com for trusted guidance.
We want to help you navigate all the legal complexities that comes to buying or selling a house in Spain, but this article is legal information and should not be seen as legal advice.
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