Digital Nomad Visa in Spain: How to Obtain a Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

Introduction

Spain, known for its warm climate, rich culture, and high quality of life, has become one of the most sought-after destinations for digital nomads. In 2023, the local government introduced a special visa for remote workers—the Digital Nomad Visa. This visa allows foreigners to legally live and work in Spain while maintaining income from foreign employers or clients.

Who Are Digital Nomads?

The term refers to professionals who work remotely using modern technology. They are not tied to an office and can perform their tasks from anywhere in the world with internet access. This category includes freelancers, programmers, designers, copywriters, marketers, consultants, and other specialists whose work does not require physical presence in a workplace. Their main advantage is the freedom to choose their place of residence and a flexible work schedule.

Why Is Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa Popular?

Firstly, it is one of the fastest programs in Europe. Obtaining digital nomad status in Spain takes only one month. Secondly, it provides the opportunity to reside legally in the country. Thirdly, Spain offers a high standard of living and well-developed infrastructure for remote work. Fourthly, visa holders can travel within EU countries without additional travel documents.

Requirements for Applying for a Freelancer Visa

To obtain this visa, applicants must meet specific criteria:

1. The applicant must be of legal age.
2. They must have a stable income from remote work or freelancing. The minimum earnings should be at least 200% of Spain’s official minimum wage (approximately €2,700 per month for the primary applicant, €1,000 for a spouse, and €400 per child).
3. The applicant must be employed by a foreign company or have clients outside of Spain.
4. They must have no criminal record, which must be confirmed by a police clearance certificate.
5. They must have private health insurance covering medical expenses for remote work or register as an “Autónomo” (self-employed) in Spain and start paying social contributions to obtain state insurance.

The primary requirement is that the applicant must be a citizen of a country outside the EU. They should work online for a company registered outside of Spain or run their own business remotely.

Additionally, they must prove at least three years of experience in their field or provide an educational qualification in a relevant discipline. All documents must be apostilled and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.

Complete List of Documents Required for the Visa Application

To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, you will need:

1. A completed visa application form.
2. A passport valid for at least six months.
3. Two color photographs.
4. Proof of income (bank statements, contracts with employers or clients).
5. A criminal record certificate from the country of residence.
6. A health insurance policy covering Spain.
7. A rental contract or proof of accommodation booking.
8. A resume and portfolio (for freelancers).
9. Proof of payment of the visa fee.

In some cases, additional documents may be required. You can check the full list with our specialists.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Digital Nomad Residency in Spain

There are two ways to apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa. The first is through the consulate in your country of residence, and the second—more convenient option—is submitting the application digitally from within Spain. Regardless of the option chosen, the process requires attention to detail to avoid delays or document issues.

1. First Step: Consult with our company’s experts. A 20-minute consultation is available for free.
2. Second Step: Gather all required documents.
3. Third Step: Submit your application at the consulate or through our lawyer in Spain.
4. Fourth Step: Wait for the application review (Processing time: up to 3 months at the consulate, or 21 days if applying from within Spain).
5. Fifth Step: Submit biometric data and receive a Spanish resident card within 30 days, valid for three years.

Bringing Family Members

Visa holders can relocate to Spain with their family. Additional documents required include:

1. Marriage certificate and children’s birth certificates.
2. Proof of sufficient financial resources to support the family.
3. Health insurance policies for all family members.

Family members receive residence cards valid for the same period as the primary applicant.

Renewing the Digital Nomad Visa After Expiry

The digital nomad visa is issued for three years. If you have lived in Spain for more than half of this period, you can apply for a two-year extension. After five years of residence under this visa, you can apply for permanent residency in Spain.

Spanish Taxes for Freelancers

Spain’s tax system for freelancers has many nuances. Income tax rates range from 19% to 47%. If you are considering relocating with a Digital Nomad Visa, it is crucial to understand the special taxation conditions. Before moving to Spain and choosing a tax regime, we recommend consulting with a professional “gestor” (local tax advisor) to avoid mistakes and optimize tax expenses.

Obtaining Permanent Residency and Spanish Citizenship

After five years in Spain under a Digital Nomad Visa, workers can apply for permanent residency. They must prove stable income and a clean legal record. After ten years of residence in Spain, they can apply for citizenship.

Remember that to successfully obtain permanent residency and citizenship, you must adhere to deadlines and prepare additional documents, such as tax certificates and proof of residence. Additionally, knowledge of the Spanish language and integration into local society can significantly simplify the process.

Conclusion

The process of obtaining this type of residence is quite straightforward. Let’s summarize:

1. Consult with our experts to ensure you meet all requirements for this type of residency.
2. Gather the necessary documents.
3. Submit your application at the consulate or through our lawyer in Spain.
4. Submit biometric data and receive a Spanish residence card valid for three years.
5. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after ten years—for citizenship.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is a convenient way to legally live and work in one of the most attractive countries in Europe.