Your handy guide to securing a digital nomad visa in Spain

Imagine waking up to the vibrant hues of Gaudí’s architectural wonders while discovering new favorites, from top dining spots to fascinating museums. You’re in luck! Spain introduced its digital nomad visa in January 2023 to attract entrepreneurs and international investors. Here’s how you can obtain one.

What exactly is a Spanish digital nomad visa?

If you’re an American looking to live and work in Spain, one viable option is the digital nomad visa. Launched in January 2023 under the new Startup Act, this visa offers temporary residency to foreign workers, enabling them to work remotely in Spain for up to one year. 

Who is eligible to apply for a digital nomad visa in Spain?

The Spanish digital nomad visa is available to non-EU remote workers who are employed by a company outside of Spain or are self-employed. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• You need an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a recognized institution, or at least three years of relevant work experience. 
• You must not be currently employed by any Spanish companies. 
• Your monthly income should be at least €2,140.
• You need to have a clean criminal record for the last five years. 
• You must have health insurance that is valid across Spain.
• You need to provide proof of accommodation during your stay in Spain.
• You should not have been a resident of Spain in the last five years.

What are the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa in Spain?

Prior to applying for a digital nomad visa, ensure that you fulfill the following criteria.

Financial criteria

Spanish regulations stipulate that you must earn at least 200% of the national minimum wage. This translates to approximately €2,140 per month, or €25,700 annually, to be eligible for the digital nomad visa.

Health insurance criteria

You are required to possess comprehensive health insurance that is valid in Spain for the entire duration of your visa. This policy must cover all health risks typically addressed by Spain’s public healthcare system.

Documentation related to remote work

You must provide proof of employment, such as a work contract from your employer. This should detail your job title, work responsibilities, employment duration, and the specifics of your remote work arrangement. If self-employed, you need to show that your business has been operational for at least 12 months.

Proof of accommodation

You must demonstrate that you have suitable accommodation for your stay in Spain. Acceptable documentation can include a rental contract, hotel booking, or a letter from a host confirming your residency at their property.

Additional specific requirements

All applicants for the visa must maintain a clean criminal record and provide a background check from your country of residence covering the last two years.

How to apply for a digital nomad visa for Spain

Applying for a digital nomad visa in Spain is quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Book an appointment with your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.
• Gather all required documents, including your passport, passport-sized photographs, application form, employment contract or evidence of remote work, proof of income, criminal background check, and health insurance.
• Fill out the application form.
• Pay the visa fee, usually around €80. 
• Attend your visa appointment, ensuring you bring all necessary documents with you.

As you prepare the documents for your application, keep in mind that requirements may differ based on your home country. Since regulations are not the same everywhere, double-check to avoid any issues. Contact your local Spanish embassy to confirm that you have everything in order.

Requirements for applying for the Spanish digital nomad visa

Along with the previously mentioned documents, you will also need to prepare the following items: 

• A visa application form: Carefully complete the digital nomad visa application form, ensuring to include your signature and the date. 
• A valid passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages and must be valid for a minimum of one year. If you need assistance, a passport guide can be very helpful.  
• Proof of income: You must demonstrate that you earn the minimum required salary for the visa. Acceptable documents include bank statements, tax records, or pay stubs. 
• Proof of professional qualifications: This could be a degree from an accredited institution, professional certifications, or evidence of three years of work experience in your field. 

One recent passport-sized photo: It should be printed on photo paper with a plain white background.

Advice for a successful application

Applying for a digital nomad visa can be quite the challenge. None of us travelers relish the thought of dealing with stacks of paperwork. It’s clear that staying organized will make everything go more smoothly, so be sure to double and triple-check that you have all the necessary documents.

Fortunately for everyone, the EU’s new ETIAS application process has been delayed until mid-2025.

Living the digital nomad lifestyle in Spain

Living as a digital nomad in Spain combines a rich historical culture with modern amenities. While internet access may be unreliable in rural regions, urban areas boast strong connectivity. This setup allows you to thrive in vibrant cities like Barcelona, packed with activities, while weekends can be devoted to road trips or train rides through the picturesque countryside. Additionally, the cost of living is significantly lower compared to many other European nations, meaning your savings can fuel more adventures across Europe.

What was the process behind creating this guide?

My laptop has been fired up in cafes across countless countries. Over the last 15 years, I’ve journeyed around the globe, working from the nearest café, co-working space, or Airbnb kitchen I could find. This global experience has enabled me to immerse myself in cultures far deeper than what a brief vacation could offer. Throughout my travels, Dinogo’s insightful tips have guided me in exploring new cities and regions, and I was excited to draw on all this experience as a digital nomad to craft this Dinogo guide.

Common inquiries regarding the digital nomad visa for Spain