Your Gateway to Remote Work in Paradise
The rise of remote work has led to a global movement of professionals seeking the perfect balance between career and lifestyle. With its sunny climate, rich culture, and affordable living costs, Spain has become a top destination for digital nomads. To capitalise on this trend, Spain introduced the Digital Nomad Visa in 2023, making it easier for remote workers to live and work legally within the country.
The cost of the digital nomad visa in Spain can vary from one lawyer to another. Make sure you shop around and work with the professional that you feel the most comfortable.
According to the Spanish Ministry of Tourism, over 2.4 million remote workers visited Spain in 2023 alone. With the new digital nomad visa, Spain aims to attract even more, especially as the number of digital nomads worldwide is expected to reach 35 million by 2025 (Global Workplace Analytics).
The Digitial Nomad visa is the alternative to the Golden visa and non-lucrative visa. Always get expert guidance when you apply for the digital nomad visa or any other type of Spanish visa. Filling out the application form can be tricky and doing it alone is not advisable.
What is the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa?
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens to reside in Spain while working remotely for a non-Spanish company. This visa is aimed at individuals who can work independently and make their income outside of Spain, making it ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees of foreign companies. The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa can be granted for up to one year, possibly extending for up to five years.
Key Benefits:
No need for sponsorship: Unlike traditional work visas, the digital nomad visa does not require a local employer to sponsor the applicant.
Tax benefits: Those on this visa can benefit from Spain’s Beckham Law, allowing certain foreign residents to be taxed at a flat rate of 24% instead of the progressive rates that can go up to 47%.
For more information, visit the Spanish Ministry of Interior.
The Requirements
To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Proof of income: Earn a minimum monthly income of €2,334. This can be from freelancing, remote employment, or business ownership.
Non-EU/EEA nationality: The visa is specifically for non-European citizens.
No criminal record: Applicants must provide a clean criminal record certificate from their country of residence.
Health insurance: Valid health insurance is mandatory for the duration of the stay in Spain.
Proof of remote work: Applicants must demonstrate that they can work remotely as self-employed individuals or employed by a non-Spanish company.
According to the International Labour Organization, the number of remote workers is increasing by 11% annually, and Spain is keen to capture this growing market.
Moving from California to Madrid
Sarah’s Journey from San Francisco to Madrid Sarah is a software developer from San Francisco who works remotely for a tech company based in New York. With a passion for travel, she applied for a Spanish digital nomad visa to enjoy Europe while continuing her job. Here’s how she did it:
Steps Taken:
Research & Planning: Sarah first checked the Spanish Consulate in Los Angeles for the visa requirements.
Income Verification: She gathered bank statements and pay slips, proving her monthly income exceeded €2,334.
Application Submission: After gathering all required documents, Sarah submitted her application online and booked an appointment at the consulate.
Visa Approval: Sarah received her digital nomad visa within 45 days, allowing her to live in Madrid for 12 months.
Tax Planning: To maximise her income, she registered for the Beckham Law tax scheme, ensuring her earnings were taxed at a flat rate of 24%.
Now settled in Madrid, Sarah enjoys the city’s vibrant lifestyle, lower living costs compared to California, and the ability to explore Europe during her weekends. She plans to extend her visa and stay in Spain for the long term.
Sarah should consider reviewing the differences between US and Spanish income tax to see where she will pay the most tax if she does not use the Beckham law.
Moving from London to Marbella
Tom’s Transition from London Finance to Marbella Sun Tom worked in finance in London but wanted a change of pace. As a freelance consultant, he saw the opportunity to move to Marbella, offering him better weather, a lower cost of living, and access to beautiful beaches. Here’s how he made the move:
Steps Taken:
Evaluate Visa Options: Tom confirmed that his freelance income met the threshold for the digital nomad visa.
Secure Health Insurance: He opted for a comprehensive health insurance policy from a local provider, which was required for the visa.
Submit Necessary Documents: With all documentation in place, Tom applied at the Spanish Embassy in London and was approved in just over a month.
Tax and Legal Consultation: Understanding the complexities of international taxation, Tom consulted a tax advisor in Marbella to avoid double taxation between the UK and Spain and ensure compliance.
Relocation and Integration: Upon arrival, Tom enrolled in Spanish language classes and registered with the local expat community, making his transition smooth and enjoyable.
With his digital nomad visa, Tom now lives in Marbella, working remotely with clients in the UK. He finds the local lifestyle much more relaxed and affordable than London without compromising his career.
Paul may still need to file a UK self-assessment as a non-resident if he has income-generating assets or sells assets while living in Spain.
Legal and Tax References
The Law on Startups and Digital Nomads (Law 28/2022) – For details on eligibility and the application process, refer to the BOE.
Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria) – Information on tax schemes for non-residents, including the Beckham Law, is available on the official website.
Spain’s Immigration Law – For general immigration policies, visit Spain Immigration.
5 Common Questions About the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa
What is the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa? The visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live in Spain while working remotely for a foreign company. It is valid for one year, with the possibility of extensions up to five years.
How much income do I need to qualify? Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €2,334. Proof can include payslips, contracts, and bank statements.
Can I bring my family with me on this visa? Yes, digital nomads can include their spouses and children under certain conditions. Additional income thresholds may apply.
How long does the application process take? Typically, the visa takes around 30-45 days to process, but this may vary based on the consulate or embassy where you apply.
What are the tax benefits of the digital nomad visa? Digital nomads can benefit from Spain’s Beckham Law, which allows a flat tax rate of 24% on income up to €600,000 for eligible foreign residents.
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is an excellent opportunity for remote workers seeking a new lifestyle without compromising their careers. With its streamlined application process and appealing tax benefits, it’s no wonder Spain is fast becoming the go-to destination for digital nomads. If you’re looking to make a move, start planning today and embrace the possibilities of working remotely in one of the most beautiful countries in the world!