Working Remotely from Spain: Conditions and Visa Choices

Working Remotely from Spain: Conditions and Visa Choices

Spain has taken a significant step in attracting remote workers from around the world by introducing a digital nomad visa. This new visa allows non-EU citizens, including UK and US citizens, to work remotely from Spain, subject to certain eligibility criteria.

Key Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa

To qualify for the digital nomad visa, applicants must meet several key requirements. These include:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Criminal Background: A clean criminal record with no refusals or sanctions related to Spain or the Schengen zone is essential.
• Income: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of about €2,763 (200% of Spain’s minimum wage) if single, with higher amounts required for dependents. This income must be regular and stable, evidenced by contracts or business activity for at least three months.
• Professional Qualifications: A university degree or equivalent professional certification, or at least three years of relevant work experience, is required.
• Remote Work: Proof that the applicant works remotely with companies outside Spain or, if self-employed, has commercial relationships mostly outside Spain (not more than 20% Spanish clients) is necessary.
• Health Insurance: Valid private health insurance authorized in Spain, covering the entire stay with no deductibles or copays, is required.
• Residence: Applicants must reside in Spain for at least 183 days per year to maintain or renew the visa.
• Documents: A valid passport with at least one year of validity left, proof of accommodation in Spain, work contracts or service agreements demonstrating remote work arrangements, and if applicable, social security coverage certificate are all necessary.

Application Process for the Digital Nomad Visa

The application process for the digital nomad visa involves several steps:

1. Prepare Application and Documents: Complete the application form, gather passport, passport-style photos, a criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated if necessary), proof of remote employment or freelance activity, proof of income, private health insurance, and proof of accommodation.
2. Submit Application: Apply at a Spanish embassy or consulate in your country of residence (for the initial one-year visa).
3. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary, but applicants will be notified of approval or additional requirements.
4. Upon Arrival in Spain: Register for a Spanish tax ID (NIE/NIF) for tax and legal residency purposes.
5. Renewal: After one year, applicants can apply for renewal if they have resided at least 183 days and continue to meet income and work criteria.

The visa allows digital nomads to live and work remotely in Spain legally, with access to the entire Schengen Area. It is initially valid for one year, but can be renewed up to a maximum of five years.

After five years, the digital nomad visa may provide access to long-term residence or even permanent residence. The estimated resolution time for the application is approximately 20 working days. Spain offers high-speed Internet, a high quality of life, and more than 300 days of sunshine in many regions.

Digital nomads in Spain must register their address at the local town hall and have private health insurance that covers them throughout Spain. If a digital nomad is traveling with family members, the income requirement increases to approximately €994 for the first dependent and €331 for each additional dependent. EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa but need NIE, registration at the town hall, and residence registration for stays over 90 days.

Spain has access to high-quality public utilities and health services. The Beckham Law in Spain allows foreigners to opt for a flat tax rate of 24% for a maximum of six years, instead of the progressive regime (which can reach up to 47%). However, the Schengen tourist visa does not allow remote work if income is generated for foreign employers or clients.

[1] Government Guidelines for Digital Nomad Visa in Spain [2] Legal Advice on Digital Nomad Visa in Spain [3] Detailed Income Thresholds for Digital Nomad Visa in Spain [4] Procedural Aspects of Digital Nomad Visa in Spain [5] Expert Analysis on Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

1. The digital nomad visa in Spain requires a minimum monthly income of about €2,763 for a single applicant, with higher amounts for dependents, demonstrating financial stability in the field of personal-finance.
2. To qualify for the digital nomad visa, one must have a university degree, professional certification, or at least three years of work experience in the realm of education-and-self-development or business.
3. In addition to professional qualifications, digital nomads must also show proof of remote work or freelance activity, making technology an essential component.
4. Fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle industries are attractive options for digital nomads, as they allow for remote work under the digital nomad visa, with companies based outside Spain.
5. Travel is an integral part of the digital nomad lifestyle, as this visa provides access to the entire Schengen Area, allowing for exploration of Europe while working remotely from different locations.

Read also: