Spain's Digital Nomad Visa 2025

Your complete guide to living and working remotely in Spain with the new Digital Nomad Visa

Spain Digital Nomad Visa At a Glance

Min. Income

€2,646/month

Validity

1 year (renewable)

Residence

Live anywhere in Spain

Tax Benefits

Beckham Law eligible

What is Spain's Digital Nomad Visa?

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa, officially launched in 2023, allows remote workers and freelancers from outside the EU to live and work in Spain for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to five years.

Key Benefits

  • Live anywhere in Spain and travel freely within Schengen area
  • Work for companies outside Spain while living in Spain
  • Potential tax benefits under the Beckham Law (24% flat tax rate)
  • Path to permanent residency after five years
  • Family reunification options for spouse and children

Application Process Step by Step

1

Prepare Your Documents

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (6+ months remaining)
  • University diploma or professional certificates
  • Criminal background check (apostilled)
  • Health insurance certificate
  • Bank statements (last 3 months)
  • Employment contract or client contracts
2

Submit Application

Submit your application at the Spanish consulate in your home country or country of legal residence:

  • Schedule an appointment online at the Spanish consulate
  • Bring original documents and certified copies
  • Pay the application fee (approximately €80)
  • Processing time: 20-90 days depending on consulate
3

Arrive in Spain & Complete Registration

Once your visa is approved, you have 3 months to enter Spain and complete these steps:

  • Register your address (empadronamiento) at the local town hall
  • Apply for your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) within 30 days
  • Open a Spanish bank account
  • Register with the tax authorities (Hacienda) if planning to stay 183+ days

Living in Spain as a Digital Nomad

Best Cities for Digital Nomads

  • Barcelona - Tech hub with great coworking spaces
  • Madrid - Business center with excellent infrastructure
  • Valencia - Affordable with great weather
  • Seville - Lower cost of living, rich culture
  • Bilbao - Rising tech scene in the Basque Country

Cost of Living

Rent (1-bed apartment)€800-1,500
Monthly expenses€1,200-2,000
Coworking space€150-300
Internet (fiber 1GB)€30-50

Community & Networking

  • Digital Nomad communities in major cities
  • Tech meetups and networking events
  • Coworking spaces with international crowds
  • Language exchange programs
  • Expat Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats

Tax Considerations & the Beckham Law

The Beckham Law: 24% Flat Tax (up to €600,000)

Digital nomads may qualify for Spain's Beckham Law, which taxes Spanish-sourced income at a flat 24% up to €600,000 per year (47% on any amount above that), for up to 6 tax years, compared to progressive resident rates up to 47%.

Beckham Law Benefits:

  • 24% flat tax rate vs. progressive rates up to 47%
  • Only Spanish-sourced income is taxed
  • Foreign income generally exempt
  • Available for 6 tax years

Eligibility Requirements:

  • First-time Spanish tax resident
  • Not a Spanish tax resident in previous 10 years
  • Must apply within 6 months of becoming tax resident
  • Work activities performed in Spain

Important: Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Always consult with a qualified Spanish tax advisor to understand your specific situation and obligations.

Renewal & Path to Permanent Residency

Visa Renewal

1

Initial Renewal (Year 2)

Apply 60 days before expiration. Must prove continued employment and income requirements.

2

Subsequent Renewals

Can be renewed for up to 2 years at a time, maximum 5 years total.

3

Required Documents

Updated contracts, bank statements, health insurance, and clean criminal record.

Permanent Residency

After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for permanent residency (long-term resident status).

Requirements:

  • 5 years of continuous legal residence
  • Basic Spanish language proficiency (A2 level)
  • Knowledge of Spanish culture and constitution
  • Sufficient income and clean criminal record

Citizenship Path: After 10 years of legal residence, you may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship, which allows dual nationality for many countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work for Spanish companies with a Digital Nomad Visa?
You can work for Spanish companies, but only up to 20% of your total work time and income. The majority (80%+) of your work must be for companies or clients outside of Spain.
Do I need to pay taxes in Spain?
Yes, if you spend more than 183 days a year in Spain, you become a tax resident. However, the Digital Nomad Visa offers access to the "Beckham Law," a special tax regime with a flat 24% tax rate for up to 6 years.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, you can include your spouse and children (under 18, or older if dependent) in your application. You will need to show additional financial means: 75% of minimum wage for the first dependent and 25% for each additional one.
How long does the visa last?
The initial visa is valid for 1 year. Once in Spain, you can apply for a residence permit valid for 3 years, renewable for another 2 years. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency.
Can I travel through Europe?
Yes, as a Spanish resident, you can travel visa-free throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
What is the minimum income requirement?
You must prove an income of at least 200% of the Spanish Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI). As of 2025, this is approximately €2,646 per month or €31,752 per year.