A Guide to Obtaining a Spain Digital Nomad Visa. Dreaming of working remotely from Madrid or Malaga? Well, here’s some good news: Starting from June 2023, non-EU/EEA citizens can now apply for Spain’s new digital nomad visa. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how to go about the application process.
With the dissolution of traditional workplace boundaries, opportunities for digital nomads have multiplied. So, where would your ideal home office be? If you’re leaning towards Spain, you’re in luck: The country has introduced its digital nomad visa program, effective as of June 2023. This program enables freelancers and remote workers from outside the EU to reside and work in Spain for a period of up to five years.
Intrigued? If the idea of working remotely from Spain appeals to you, this guide will outline the requirements for the country’s digital nomad visa and provide guidance on the application process.
The Spain digital nomad visa, was introduced in January 2023.
Allowing non-EU/EEA remote workers and freelancers to live and work in Spain for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension up to five years. Here are the requirements and the application process:
Requirements for Spain’s digital nomad visa:
- Remote Work Capability: You must demonstrate that your work can be done remotely, either self-employed or for an overseas employer.
- Employer’s Stability: If you work for an employer, the company must have been in business for at least one year.
- Financial Stability: You need to show financial stability equal to 200% of the Spanish national minimum wage, which is approximately €2,280 per month or €30,840 per year. You can prove your income with bank statements, payslips, and employment contracts.
- Education or Work Experience: You need to hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a legitimate university, college, or business school, or have at least three years of relevant work experience in your current professional field.
- Clean Criminal Record: You must have a clean criminal record.
- Residency Requirement: You must not have resided in Spain during the past five years. If you’re currently in Spain without proper authorization, you’re not eligible for the digital nomad visa.
Application Process:
- Collect Necessary Documents: Gather all required documents, some of which may need to be apostilled or translated into Spanish.
- Book Appointment and Pay Fee: Schedule an appointment at your local Spanish embassy or consulate and pay the visa fee, which is typically around €80.
- Attend Appointment: Bring all necessary documentation to your appointment. Your passport will be temporarily held by the embassy or consulate while they process your application.
- Pick Up Visa: Once approved, you have one month to retrieve your visa from the embassy or consulate. If declined, you’ll be notified in writing with reasons for rejection. You have one month to submit extra documentation and appeal the decision if desired.
- Get NIF and NIE: Obtain a national identity number (NIE) and a tax number (NIF), necessary for tasks like opening a bank account.
Tax Obligations:
- Non-residents on a digital nomad visa are subject to a 24% tax rate, applicable up to €600,000 per year during the initial four years of stay. Earnings above this amount are taxed at 48%.
- Spain has double taxation agreements with many countries, meaning you may be exempt from being taxed again on foreign income if already taxed in your home country.
Digital Nomad Destinations in Spain:
- Malaga: An affordable coastal city with a sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and a fast growing expat community.
- Madrid: A bustling capital with abundant co-working spaces, networking events, and historic landmarks.
- Barcelona: A modern city with historic charm, offering co-working spaces with beachfront views and a vibrant cultural scene.
- Valencia: A relaxed city with a blossoming tech ecosystem and comfortable weather year-round.
- Palma de Mallorca: The capital of the Balearic Islands, known for picturesque landscapes and a vibrant cultural scene.
By meeting the visa requirements and following the application process, digital nomads can enjoy living and working in Spain while exploring its diverse destinations.
Remote Working in Spain website we recommend…
- Remote Working (Digital Nomad)
https://www.ageinspain.org/post/remote-working-digital-nomad-visa
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to message us or stay connected via our Facebook and Instagram pages. Cheers, Kent.
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