In this article we are going to explain all the details that the law includes and what are the official requirements and the procedure to apply for the Digital nomad visa.
This law has incorporated a new type of visa for foreigners who work remotely and want to reside in Spain. The law defines this type of workers as international remote workers. Therefore, they are all non-European nationals who work remotely with electronic tools and their sources of income come from outside Spain. There are two types of digital nomads, those who work as employees for non-Spanish companies and those who are self-employed.
The Startup Law (Ley 28/2022, de fomento del ecosistema de las empresas emergentes) has been finally published. Last Thursday, December 22, 2022 was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE). On Friday, December 23rd it came into force, which means that all the new features that the law incorporates are already being applied.
Main requirements for Spain digital nomad visa
Below you will find the main requirements to find out if you can apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa:
- Be a qualified professional: to be a graduate, postgraduate, have a professional training diploma or have professional experience of at least 3 years in the job position.
- Work or provide services for a company or companies located outside Spain.
- Provide a job contract with the company of at least 1 year’s duration.
- Proof that the work activity can be performed remotely.
- Provide documentation showing that the employment relationship has existed for the last 3 months.
- Not having a criminal record in Spain or in the countries where you have resided during the last 2 years.
- To take out private medical insurance with a Spanish insurance company.
- Proof of minimum annual income from remote work (monthly 2.763€/ yearly 33.152€). This is essential to meet the Minimum income for Spain Digital Nomad Visa.
There are also specific requirements depending on whether you are employed or self-employed:
- If you are an employee:
- The company you work for must have at least 1 year of seniority.
- The company must sign an authorization to allow you to work remotely.
- If you are self-employed:
- You must provide services for at least one company.
- You can have a maximum of 20% of your income coming from Spanish companies.
These requirements are part of the broader framework established by the Startup Act in Spain, aimed at attracting Non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to live and work remotely in the country. Ensure that you gather all necessary documentation before visiting the Spanish consulate to apply for your Spanish residency permit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Nomad Visa
Can family members accompany me on the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, family members can apply as dependents. They must provide proof of relationship and demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves while residing in Spain.
What is the duration of the Spain Digital Nomad Visa and can it be renewed?
If applied from your home country, the visa duration is up to 1 year. However, if you apply while in Spain, the initial visa duration can be up to 3 years with options to renew twice more without needing to return to your home country.
How can I apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa and what is the processing time?
Applications can be submitted either at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your home country or directly within Spain. The visa approval process is fast-tracked, with a response typically provided within 20 working days.
Are there additional requirements for employees and self-employed applicants under the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes. Employees must work for a company with at least 1 year of seniority and have authorization to work remotely. Self-employed applicants must provide services to at least one company and ensure that no more than 20% of their income comes from Spanish companies.
Do the years of residence as a digital nomad count for later applying for Spanish nationality?
Yes, but minimize absences from the country. Depending on your nationality, you can apply for a Spanish passport after 2 or 10 years of residence.
Can my family members apply for the same visa as dependents?
Yes, they can apply as dependents. You must prove family relationship and financial means (890€ for the first member, 300€ for each additional).
Where can I apply for the Spanish digital nomad visa?
You can apply at the Spanish Embassy/Consulate in your country or directly in Spain if you are in a regular situation.
How long does it take to get the visa approval?
Approval takes 20 working days. If there’s no response after that, it’s approved by positive administrative silence.
How long does the visa last?
If applied from your country, it’s valid for a maximum of 1 year. If applied in Spain, it lasts 3 years and can be renewed for 2 more.
Hopefully this guide has helped you to see if you meet the requirements. Do not hesitate to ask us to help you in the process of applying for the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain.
Who wouldn’t like to be able to work remotely and live in our wonderful country! If you are thinking about moving to Spain, you are late to contact us!
