Spain Digital Nomad Visa: 2025 Overview
Spain's Digital Nomad Visa (visa de nómada digital) launched in 2023 allows remote workers to live in Spain for up to 5 years while working for non-Spanish companies. Combined with Beckham Law tax benefits, it's one of Europe's most attractive options for high-earning remote workers.
Eligibility Requirements (2025 Thresholds)
Income Requirements
- ✓€2,334 per month minimum income (2025 threshold)
- ✓€28,008 annual income equivalent
- ✓Must prove income through employment contracts, freelance agreements, or business documentation
- ✓Bank statements showing consistent income for past 3-6 months
Note: Income must be from work performed remotely for companies/clients outside Spain
Employment Documentation
- ✓Employment contract showing remote work arrangement
- ✓Company letter confirming work-from-anywhere policy
- ✓For freelancers: portfolio of clients, contracts, and invoices
- ✓For business owners: company registration and tax documents
Legal Requirements
- ✓Clean criminal background check (apostilled)
- ✓Health insurance covering Spain (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- ✓University degree or 3+ years professional experience
- ✓No EU/EEA citizenship (EU citizens don't need this visa)
Application Documents
- ✓Completed application form (EX-14)
- ✓Passport valid for 12+ months
- ✓Passport photos meeting Spanish requirements
- ✓Proof of accommodation in Spain
Interactive Eligibility Checker
📋 Am I Eligible?
Answer these questions to get a preliminary assessment of your eligibility:
Do you earn at least €2,334 per month?
Can you work remotely for non-Spanish companies?
Do you have a university degree or 3+ years experience?
Are you a non-EU citizen?
Do you have clean criminal background?
💡 This is a preliminary check only. Consult with immigration professionals for definitive eligibility assessment.
Application Process & Timeline
Document Preparation (2-6 weeks)
Gather all required documents, obtain apostilles for criminal background checks, and ensure health insurance coverage meets Spanish requirements.
Tip: Start with criminal background check first - apostille process can take 2-4 weeks.
Submit Application (1 day)
Apply at Spanish consulate in your country of residence. Book appointment well in advance.
- • Submit form EX-14 with all supporting documents
- • Pay visa fee (approximately €80)
- • Provide biometric data if required
Processing & Decision (3-6 weeks)
Immigration authorities review application. You may be contacted for additional information.
TIE Card Application (within 30 days of arrival)
Once in Spain, apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) card at immigration office.
Beckham Law: Tax Benefits Explained
The Beckham Law (Ley Beckham) allows new Spanish residents to pay a flat 24% tax rate instead of progressive rates up to 47%. Named after footballer David Beckham, it's designed to attract high-earning professionals to Spain.
Beckham Law vs Standard Spanish Taxes
| Tax Aspect | Standard Tax | Beckham Law | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Tax Rate | 19-47% progressive | 24% flat rate | Up to 23% reduction for high earners |
| Worldwide Income | All global income taxed | Only Spanish-source income | Foreign investment income exempt |
| Wealth Tax | 0.2-3.5% on assets >€700k | Completely exempt | 100% wealth tax elimination |
| Duration | Permanent resident rates | Up to 6 years maximum | Time-limited advantage |
💰 Example: €80,000 Annual Income
Standard Spanish Tax
- • Progressive rates: 19% to 37%
- • Total tax: ~€22,000
- • Wealth tax applies to assets
- • All worldwide income taxed
Beckham Law Tax
- • Flat rate: 24%
- • Total tax: €19,200
- • No wealth tax
- • Only Spanish income taxed
💡 Annual savings: €2,800+ plus wealth tax exemption
How to Apply for Beckham Law Status
⏰ Critical Timing
You must apply within 6 months of becoming a Spanish tax resident. Missing this deadline means you cannot access Beckham Law benefits.
Application Steps
- Determine tax residency date: Usually when you spend 183+ days in Spain or establish primary residence
- File Form 149: Submit application to Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria)
- Provide supporting documents: Employment contracts, proof of non-resident status in past 5 years
- Wait for approval: Tax agency reviews application (typically 3-6 months)
- File annual returns using Model 151: Special tax form for Beckham Law beneficiaries
Professional advice recommended: Tax implications are complex. Consult with Spanish tax advisors who specialize in Beckham Law applications.
Renewal & Permanent Residence Path
Digital Nomad Visa Renewals
- First renewal: After 1 year, extend for up to 2 more years
- Second renewal: After 3 years total, extend for final 2 years
- Maximum duration: 5 years total on nomad visa
- Income requirements: Must continue meeting €2,334/month threshold
After 5 Years: Your Options
Permanent Residence
Apply for long-term EU resident status. Requires passing Spanish language and integration tests (A2 level Spanish).
Spanish Citizenship
After 10 years of legal residence (2 years for Latin Americans), apply for Spanish nationality and EU passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa while already in Spain?▼
Does the €2,334 monthly income requirement include taxes?▼
Can I qualify for Beckham Law with a Digital Nomad Visa?▼
How long does the Digital Nomad Visa application take?▼
Can family members join me on a Digital Nomad Visa?▼
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying While in Spain
You cannot apply for the Digital Nomad Visa from within Spain. Must apply from your country of residence.
❌ Missing Beckham Law Deadline
The 6-month deadline to apply for Beckham Law is strict. Missing it means paying standard Spanish tax rates.
⚠️ Working for Spanish Companies
Digital Nomad Visa requires working for non-Spanish entities. Working for Spanish companies violates visa terms.
❌ Insufficient Income Documentation
Must prove consistent €2,334/month income. One-off payments or irregular income may not qualify.
Professional Resources & Next Steps
Official Sources
- • One.gob.es: Official Spanish visa information
- • Agencia Tributaria: Beckham Law applications
- • Spanish Consulates: Local application requirements
- • Immigration Lawyers: Professional application support
Recommended Steps
- 1. Calculate your eligibility and potential tax savings
- 2. Consult with Spanish immigration lawyer
- 3. Start document collection process
- 4. Book consulate appointment early
- 5. Plan your move and tax residency timeline
Last verified: July 15, 2025 | Disclaimer: Visa and tax laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with official sources and qualified professionals before making decisions.