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
- Bring your family (spouse and children under 18)
Important Note
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa requires you to work primarily for companies or clients outside of Spain. You can only dedicate up to 20% of your working time to Spanish clients or companies.
Eligibility Requirements
Personal Requirements
- Be a non-EU citizen over 18 years old
- Hold a university degree or professional certification (minimum 3 years experience)
- Have a clean criminal record from your home country
- Not have lived in Spain for more than 90 days in the 6 months before applying
- Have comprehensive health insurance
Financial Requirements
- Minimum monthly income: €2,646 (4x Spanish minimum wage)
- Prove 3 months of consistent income or bank statements
- Additional €662 per dependent (spouse/child)
- Income must come primarily from non-Spanish sources
Work Requirements
- Work remotely for companies outside Spain (minimum 80% of income)
- Or work as a freelancer/contractor with international clients
- Maximum 20% of work/income can be from Spanish sources
- Provide employment contract or client contracts
Quick Eligibility Check
Think you qualify? Here's a quick checklist to verify:
Application Process Step by Step
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
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
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
Cost of Living
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 Rate
Digital nomads may qualify for Spain's Beckham Law, offering a 24% flat tax rate on Spanish-sourced income for the first 6 years, compared to the progressive tax rates of 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
Initial Renewal (Year 2)
Apply 60 days before expiration. Must prove continued employment and income requirements.
Subsequent Renewals
Can be renewed for up to 2 years at a time, maximum 5 years total.
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?
If you spend more than 183 days in Spain in a calendar year, you become a Spanish tax resident and must declare your worldwide income. However, you may qualify for the Beckham Law, which offers significant tax advantages.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children under 18. They'll need to apply for dependent visas and you'll need to show additional income (€662 per dependent) and provide proof of family relationships.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You have the right to appeal the decision within one month. Common rejection reasons include insufficient income proof, incomplete documentation, or not meeting the remote work requirements. You can reapply after addressing the issues.
Can I travel within the EU with this visa?
Yes, the Digital Nomad Visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area for short trips (up to 90 days in any 180-day period in other Schengen countries), but your primary residence must be in Spain.
Ready to Start Your Spanish Adventure?
Join thousands of digital nomads who've made Spain their new home. Start planning your application today and discover the perfect work-life balance in one of Europe's most vibrant countries.