The Digital Nomad Visa, Spain: A Legal Guide for Remote Workers

The Digital Nomad Visa, Spain: A Legal Guide for Remote Workers

Introduction

Spain is calling – and now, you can answer without giving up your career….Thanks to Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, remote workers now have access to a long-term residence visa in Spain, in one of Europe’s most desirable destinations – without becoming tax exiles or battling short-stay visa limits. Whether you’re a software developer, consultant or creative, this legal pathway offers sun, tapas, and Wi-Fi in equal measure.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, including eligibility, application steps, tax benefits, and legal tips.

Table of Contents

What Is Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?

Introduced as part of Spain’s Startups Law in 2023, the Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU nationals to legally live and work remotely in Spain for up to five years. It’s designed for professionals who work for foreign employers or have their own businesses located outside of Spain.  Unlike tourist or short-term visas, it provides residency rights, potential tax advantages, and access to local services – all while enjoying the Costa del Sol lifestyle.

Who Is Eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa?

To apply, you must fulfil the following criteria:

  • Be a non-EU national
  • Work remotely for a non-Spanish company or clients outside of Spain (maximum 20% of income can be from Spanish sources)
  • Prove remote work experience of at least 3 months and 1 year in your current field
  • Have a university degree or 3+ years of equivalent work experience
  • Show income stability, with a minimum monthly income around €2,500 (more for family members)
  • Have a clean criminal record in the past 5 years
  • Secure private health insurance for Spain

Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa

  • Initial 1-year visa, renewable up to 5 years via residency permit
  • Fast-tracked residency process through Spain’s Entrepreneur Law
  • Live anywhere in Spain – from Málaga and Marbella to Madrid and Barcelona
  • Family reunification – bring your spouse and children
  • Tax incentives via the Beckham-style regime (see below)

Interested in combining a beachfront lifestyle with tax efficiency? PCC Wealth can help you explore financial planning options tailored for expats.

What Documents Do You Need?

To apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to provide the following documentation:

  • Passport (valid)
  • Proof of remote work (contract/employer letter or client agreements)
  • Proof of income (bank statements, payslips, or invoices)
  • Criminal background check (translated and apostilled)
  • Proof of qualifications (degree or experience)
  • Private health insurance policy (full cover in Spain)
  • Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental agreement or invitation letter)

You can apply from your home country (via the Spanish consulate) or from within Spain if you’re already here legally.

Application Process & Timeline

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Double-check translations, apostilles, and certified copies.  PCC Legal can assist with this step to ensure your paperwork is airtight.

Step 2: Submit Application

Apply through your local consulate or online via Spain’s UGE platform. If already in Spain, apply directly to the immigration office.

Step 3: Approval & Residence Card

You’ll typically receive a resolution within 20–30 working days. Once approved, apply for your TIE (foreigners’ ID card). 

Step 4: Renewal

After the first year, you can transition to a 3-year residency permit and later renew again. After 5 years of legal residency, you may qualify for long-term residency.

Tax Considerations: The Beckham Law Option

Digital nomads can opt into Spain’s updated Beckham Law – now extended to remote workers – which allows you to:

  • Be taxed as a non-resident
  • Pay 24% flat tax on Spanish-sourced income up to €600,000
  • Enjoy exemptions on foreign income for up to 6 years

To qualify, you must apply within 6 months of registering with Spanish Social Security.  If you need help deciding if the Beckham regime is right for you? Speak to PCC Wealth for expert tax guidance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  •  Missing apostilles or official translations – causes delays or rejections
  • Unclear income documentation – your proof must be watertight
  • Not applying from the correct location – rules differ if applying inside Spain
  • Health insurance gaps – make sure coverage includes all required categories

Get legal peace of mind with PPC Legal, who can handle your visa application from start to finish.

Living in Spain as a Digital Nomad

Once approved, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of legal residency listed below:

  • Open a local bank account
  • Enrol children in school
  • Access healthcare (private only, unless eligible for public cover)
  • Explore business opportunities and network locally

Want to protect your lifestyle? PCC Insurance offers policies tailored to digital nomads and expats in Spain.

FAQs About Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

  • Can I work as a freelancer under Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, as long as your clients are primarily outside Spain (max 20% of income from Spanish clients).

  • Can I switch to a different visa or residency type later?

Yes, you can transition to other residency permits, including permanent residence after 5 years.

  • Can my family work in Spain if they join me?

Spouses may apply for work authorisation separately under family reunification rules.

  • Do I need a local address before applying?

Yes, proof of accommodation is required (temporary or long-term).

Ready to Apply?

The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain opens the door to a life of flexibility, sunshine, and opportunity. But success depends on getting your application right the first time. With multilingual support, expert knowledge of Spanish immigration law, and local presence on the Costa del Sol, PCC Legal is your trusted partner.

Get in touch with our immigration team today to start your move to Spain.

Going Above And Beyond For You

At PCC Legal, we strive to exceed your expectations.

Our core values are reflected in our dedication to Excellence, Transparency, Service, and Efficiency. 

Ready to learn more about who we are or need our assistance? Get in touch with us today.

Excellence

Service

Transparency

Efficiency

We’ve Moved Offices on 1st August 2025!

Private Client Consultancy is excited to announce that we have moved to a brand-new office space, designed to better serve our clients and reflect our continued growth.

Effective Date: Friday, 1st August 2025
New Address: Urb Jazmin De Miraflores, C. Jazmín, 2, Mijas Costa 29649, Malaga, Spain
Our phone numbers and email addresses remain unchanged.

All in-person meetings scheduled from 1st August onwards will take place at our new location. Please update your records accordingly.

We look forward to welcoming you to our new space!