Complete Guide: Spain Digital Nomad Visa Application

Introduction

Spain's digital nomad visa, introduced in 2023 as part of the Startup Law (Ley de Startups), is one of the most attractive options for remote workers looking to live in Europe. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the application process.

Quick Facts

• Initial duration: 1 year (renewable up to 5 years)
• Minimum income: €2,763/month (€33,156/year) — based on IPREM
• Processing time: 20-30 days
• Tax benefits: 24% flat rate up to €600,000/year for 5 years (Beckham Law) - only for employees of foreign companies registered with Spanish Social Security

Eligibility Requirements

1

Nationality

Available to all nationalities except EU/EEA citizens (who don't need a visa due to freedom of movement within the EU)

2

Remote Work Status

Must be either:

• Employed by a company outside Spain
• Self-employed with clients outside Spain
• Owner of a company outside Spain

3

Income Requirements

Minimum monthly income:

• €2,763 for the main applicant
• €1,035 per adult dependent (75% of SMI)
• €346 per minor dependent (25% of SMI)
• Must show proof of income for at least 3 months

4

Education or Experience

Applicants must hold a university degree or have at least 3 years of professional experience in their field.

Required Documents

Essential Documents

•
Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least 1 year from application date
•
Proof of Remote Work
Employment contract or client agreements showing remote work status
•
Bank Statements
Last 3 months showing regular income above minimum requirement
•
Health Insurance
Private health insurance with coverage in Spain (minimum €30,000 coverage)
•
Criminal Record Certificate
Must be issued within 6 months before the application date, covering the past 5 years of residence, and apostilled/legalized and translated into Spanish
•
Proof of Accommodation
Rental contract or property ownership documents

Additional Documents (if applicable)

•
Marriage Certificate
If bringing a spouse (must be apostilled/legalized)
•
Birth Certificates
For children (must be apostilled/legalized)
•
Company Documents
If self-employed or business owner (registration, tax documents)

Step-by-Step Application Process

1

Already in Spain?

If you're already in Spain legally (e.g., on a tourist visa), you can apply directly for a 3-year residence permit without needing a visa from a consulate.

2

Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents and ensure they are properly translated and legalized:

• All documents must be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator
• Documents from non-EU countries must be apostilled or legalized
• Make copies of all documents

3

Schedule Appointment

Book an appointment at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence:

• Check the consulate's website for appointment scheduling
• Some consulates allow online scheduling
• Book well in advance as slots can fill up quickly

4

Submit Application

Attend your appointment and submit your application:

• Arrive early with all documents
• Be prepared for an interview
• Pay the application fee (approximately €80, plus additional fees for residence permits and NIE)

5

Wait for Approval

Processing typically takes 20-30 days:

• You may be contacted for additional documents
• Check your email regularly for updates
• You can track your application status online

6

Collect Visa and Enter Spain

Once approved:

• Collect your visa from the consulate
• Enter Spain within 90 days of visa issuance
• Apply for TIE (residence card) within 30 days of arrival

Tips for Success

Document Preparation

• Start gathering documents at least 3 months before application
• Use a professional translation service for document translation
• Keep digital copies of all documents
• Check document expiration dates (especially criminal record)

Application Process

• Book your consulate appointment as early as possible
• Prepare for potential interview questions about your remote work
• Have extra copies of all documents at your appointment
• Consider using a visa agency if you're unsure about the process

After Arrival

• Register at the local town hall (empadronamiento) within 3 months
• Open a Spanish bank account for easier financial management
• Get a Spanish phone number and SIM card
• Note: The Beckham Law tax regime is only available to employees of foreign companies registered with Spanish Social Security. Self-employed individuals are generally not eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work for Spanish companies with this visa?

No, the digital nomad visa only allows you to work for companies outside of Spain. You cannot work for Spanish companies or clients.

Can I bring my family?

Yes, you can bring your spouse and children. You'll need to show additional income of €500 per month for each dependent.

What happens after 5 years?

After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency in Spain, which allows you to work for Spanish companies.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

No, there is no language requirement for the visa. However, learning basic Spanish will help with daily life in Spain.

Can I travel within the Schengen area?

Yes, the visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

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