How to apply for digital nomad visa in Spain
The global community of digital nomads has grown by 131% since 2019, reaching around 35 million worldwide in 2023 and, many of them, decide to apply for digital visa in Spain, followed by Portugal.
Since it arrived in Spain in 2023, it has become one of the best ways to telecommute and reside legally in the country. It is one of the best ways to get to know a country, its food, its culture and Spain is one of the best countries to live in.
What is a digital nomad visa?
This visa was born with the idea of allowing remote workers to live and work legally in the country while continuing to carry out their professional activities for companies outside Spain.
It is a visa designed for freelancers, freelancers and employees of foreign companies who are at a time in their lives when they want to combine their professional career with the experience of getting to know different countries.
Eligibility criteria for the Spanish digital nomad visa
In order to enjoy the experience of being a digital nomad in Spain, it is essential to meet a series of requirements that ensure a smooth and safe stay.
Nationality and residency requirements
The visa is available for all nationalities who are not members of the European Union, the European Economic Area, Switzerland or are beneficiaries of European, such as the residence of a family member of a European citizen.
In addition, the applicant must demonstrate the existence of real and continuous work for at least one year in the same company.
Financial requirements
You must prove that you have sufficient income to support yourself in Spain. Generally, this translates into a monthly income of more than 2,000 euros. In order to prove this income, you can show your contract, bank statements or receipts. It must be an amount that represents 200% of the monthly minimum wage (SMI).
Required documents
- Completed application form.
- Valid passport.
- Recent photographs.
- Proof of income.
- Medical insurance
- Proof of residence abroad.
- Criminal record certificates.
Step-by-step application process
Interested in applying for this visa? Follow the steps below to get it.
The first thing you have to do is to gather all the necessary documents and complete the visa application form.
If your destination is Spain, you must make an appointment at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence to submit all the documents. There, you will have to pay the corresponding fees for this visa.
From there, you will have to wait for a response. This process can take several weeks, so don’t get overwhelmed.
Where and how to start your application
You can start the application at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. It is also possible to start the process online through the consulate’s official website.
Understanding tax implications
Spain has a special tax regime known as the “Beckham Law” for workers relocating to the country. This regime allows them to benefit from more advantageous taxation, establishing a flat tax rate of 24% for annual income of up to 600. 000 euros.
Legal rights and obligations in Spain
Once you are in Spanish territory you will have the same legal rights and obligations as any resident of the country. This includes access to public services, maintaining health insurance and respecting tax regulations.
Tips for a successful application
Do you want to be approved for a visa? This is largely up to you and you should follow some tips that will bring you closer to being a digital nomad.
Make sure you have all your documents ready and well organized at all times. The information should be clear and complete, so that the administrative officer who will see your application will have an easier time checking your visa.
Also, make sure you meet all the financial and other requirements.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Everyone can make a mistake when applying for this visa, so here are the most common ones. So these will make sure you don’t make them:
- Failure to provide all the information and documentation requested.
- Failure to provide adequate proof of income
- Mistakes when filling in the application form. Be attentive to each of the mandatory fields that appear.
Getting professional help
Doing it on your own can be tedious and somewhat difficult. That is why, at least at the beginning of this new stage, it is advisable to always be accompanied by a good immigration lawyer. A professional who will help you along the way to complete all the forms, to apply for the visa, to give you good advice and to help you avoid the mistakes we mentioned earlier.
Moreover, they will not only be your guide at the beginning. They can also be your ally during your stay in Spain, assisting with visa renewals or any other legal needs you may have.
You are about to start a new adventure. You’re just a stone’s throw away from living in one of the best countries to be a digital nomad.
