The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain is a solution for remote workers who aim to reside temporarily in the country while continuing their work for a company based outside of Spain. This visa offers a unique opportunity for non-European Economic Area (EEA) citizens to immerse themselves in the cultural and social benefits of Spain while pursuing a nomadic lifestyle.
If you are a remote worker in Spain and have questions about the digital nomad visa, Navarra Associate’s team of professionals can provide you with the guidance you require.
Who qualifies for a digital nomad visa in Spain?
To be eligible for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet several criteria, ensuring they align with the program’s intent to attract remote workers while protecting local job markets.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Nationality and Employment Requirements:
- Be non-Spanish and non-EEA citizens.
- Be employed by a non-Spanish company or have clients outside of Spain, with a contract to present.
- Income Restrictions:
- Have a global income with no more than 20% earned from Spanish companies. This means the majority of your income must come from sources outside of Spain, ensuring that digital nomads support their lifestyle primarily from international work.
- Residence and Work History:
- Not have held residency status in Spain in the past five years prior to the application.
- Have been working remotely for at least three months for the same company, with written evidence from the company.
- Provide proof of a real and continuous activity for at least one year from the company.
- Financial and Legal Requirements:
- Prove financial means of at least 28,000 euros for the applicant and 9,000 euros for each family member.
- Hold a clean criminal record and not have a previous prohibition of entry to Spain.
- Insurance and Accommodation:
- Have valid private health insurance coverage throughout Spain.
- Provide proof of accommodation for their stay in Spain.
These requirements ensure that applicants are well-prepared for their stay in Spain, supporting themselves independently while contributing to the multicultural and vibrant economy without competing directly with the local workforce.
How can I apply for digital nomad visa?
The application process for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa involves submitting an application form to a local Spanish Consulate or Embassy. If you apply for a visa at the Spanish Consulate in your home country you will receive a one year visa which can then be upgraded to a three-year residence permit. If you choose to apply after arriving for Spain with a tourist visa, you will be entitled to apply directly for a three-year residence permit. Upon approval, the visa holder will be allowed visa-free travel within the Schengen Area of the European Union.
Renewable residency permits may extend the validity for an additional two years, for a total of five years of residency in Spain. While applying for a nomad visa prior to traveling to Spain is an option, it is a much simpler process to apply after arriving to your Spanish destination.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain the Digital Nomad Visa?
The timeline for getting a digital nomad visa can be surprisingly swift. Generally speaking, you can expect a decision on your application in approximately 20 days or even sooner. A noteworthy aspect of this process is the concept of “positive administrative silence.” What does this mean for you? If you don’t receive a formal decision within those 20 days, you can assume that your application is approved.
However, securing the visa is just part of the journey. Once approved, there’s another step: acquiring your physical residence card. This requires a visit to a local police station in Spain, where you’ll need to provide your fingerprints. After completing this straightforward task, you should anticipate roughly a one-month wait before your residence card is ready for collection.
In summary, while the initial visa decision is relatively quick at around 20 days, the complete process, including obtaining your residence card, can extend to about a month and a half.
If your application for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is not successful, don’t worry — you have options.
- File an Appeal: You can challenge the decision through an appeal. The countdown begins the day after you receive the notification of your visa rejection. This means if you’re informed on March 1st, the clock starts ticking on March 2nd.
- Act Quickly: You have a 30-day window to submit your appeal. It’s crucial to adhere strictly to this timeline to ensure your case is considered.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather any necessary documents that can strengthen your case. This might include additional proof of eligibility or documentation that addresses the reasons for your initial rejection.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consider consulting with an immigration attorney. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and help you prepare a strong appeal.
By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of having your application reconsidered and potentially approved.
How long is the digital nomad visa good for in Spain?
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa will be a temporary solution for remote workers who wish to reside in Spain. Upon initial approval, the visa will be valid for a period of one year. After that they have the opportunity to convert their Digital Nomad Visa into a longer-term temporary residency permit, with a maximum validity of three years.
Those who have obtained a renewable residency permit, will have the ability to extend the validity of their temporary permit for an additional two years upon renewal, allowing for a total of five years of residency in Spain.
After the fifth year, foreign remote workers may be eligible for permanent residency, provided they continue to meet the requirements set by the Spanish government. Additionally, the years spent on the initial 3-year digital nomad visa, along with its subsequent renewals, contribute towards both Spanish nationality and long-term residency. This means that as you work remotely in Spain, you’re not only building your career but also laying the groundwork for a more permanent life in the country.
By fulfilling the conditions and maintaining your status as a digital nomad, you are on a clear path to both long-term residency and potentially acquiring Spanish nationality. This dual benefit makes Spain an appealing choice for remote professionals looking to establish deeper roots in Europe.
How to Be Classified as a Non-Resident for Tax Purposes in Spain with the Digital Nomad Visa?
If you wish to be classified as a non-resident for tax purposes under Spain’s digital nomad visa, follow this distinct process:
- Separate Application Required: This isn’t just an extension of your residency application. You’ll need to start a unique process specific to tax status.
- Coordinate with the Spanish Tax Agency: This formal request must be submitted directly to the Spanish Tax Agency, ensuring you separate your tax affairs from your residency status.
- Act Within Six Months: Timing is crucial. You must file this application within six months after your residency permit has been granted.
By adhering to these steps, you can efficiently manage your tax obligations while enjoying the benefits of your digital nomad lifestyle in Spain.
What are the tax benefits for remote workers in Spain?
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa offers tax benefits, such as a reduced non-resident income tax rate of 24% on income up to 600,000€ and a lowered required period of non-residence for tax purposes of 5 years. The special tax regime can be applied for six months after obtaining the residency permit and can be enjoyed for five years. Digital nomads are considered non-residents for tax purposes, thus exempting them from paying wealth tax and completing informative models of their patrimony.
Cost of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa
If you’re considering applying for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, it’s important to know the associated costs. The application begins with a fee of €73.26 for your initial submission. When it’s time to renew, the cost slightly increases to €78.67. (Prices are subject to change)
These fees ensure you can live and work remotely in sunny Spain, making it an attractive choice for digital nomads seeking a picturesque backdrop for their work-life balance.
For those seeking assistance in obtaining a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, Navarra Associate offers professional guidance throughout the application process. Our team of experienced attorneys can ensure that all necessary documents and requirements are met, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Contact Navarra Associate today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards realizing your dream of residing and working in Spain as a digital nomad.
+34 166 08 08 99 (Send us a WhatsApp message, and we will reply as soon as possible)
Service Price*
€ 1800 for the applicant
€ 800 for each family member
* Estimated service price, total amount will depend on the particular case and additional services required.
VAT is not included in the price.