How to Apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

Spain has long been a dream destination for remote workers, thanks to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. But until recently, non-European freelancers and remote employees had limited options for legally working from Spain. That changed with the introduction of the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)—a game-changer for non-EU professionals looking to live and work remotely in Spain while benefiting from tax incentives.

As of 2025, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa remains one of the most attractive in Europe, offering a renewable 3-year residence permit, tax benefits, and the possibility of permanent residency after five years. Whether you’re a freelancer, self-employed professional, or remote employee for a foreign company, this visa gives you the legal right to work remotely from Spain while enjoying the perks of Mediterranean life.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa in 2025—from eligibility criteria to step-by-step instructions, tax implications, and the best strategies to avoid rejection.

What you’ll learn in this guide:
✔️ Who is eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa
✔️ Step-by-step application process (from Spain or your home country)
✔️ Required income and documents
✔️ Tax benefits and obligations in Spain
✔️ How to bring your family along
✔️ Common mistakes that lead to visa rejections—and how to avoid them

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap to successfully applying for your visa and starting your new life in Spain. Are you looking for immigration experts in Spanish Digital Nomad Visa applications? Make sure to contact us here.

2. Key Benefits of the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most attractive options for remote workers looking to live and work in Europe legally. Compared to other visa options, it offers financial advantages, ease of access to the Schengen Zone, and a clear pathway to permanent residency. Here’s why this visa stands out:

1. Work Remotely in Spain Legally

The visa allows remote workers and freelancers to legally reside in Spain while working for foreign companies. Unlike a tourist visa, which limits stays to 90 days, this permit lets you stay long-term and establish yourself in Spain.

2. Tax Benefits (Upon eligibility): 24% Flat Tax Rate

Some digital nomads who may be eligible for a special tax regime known as Beckham Law, pay only 24% tax on earnings up to €600,000 per year for the first four years—significantly lower than the regular progressive tax rates, which can go up to 47%. This makes Spain an excellent choice for remote workers seeking tax-efficient residency.

3. Travel Freely Within the Schengen Zone

With Spanish residency, digital nomads can visit 28 European countries visa-free, making it easy to travel throughout Europe while keeping Spain as a home base.

Schengen Area as of 01.01.2025 : r/europe

4. Bring Your Family

Unlike some visa programs that only allow the main applicant, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa extends to spouses, children, and even dependent parents. Family members receive residence permits, and children gain access to Spain’s public education system.

5. Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After five years of legal residence, digital nomads can apply for permanent residency (technically called long-term residence). After ten years, they may qualify for Spanish citizenship, provided they meet the residency requirements. This term is reduced to 2 years, if the applicant is holder of an Ibero-american passport.

6. Lower Cost of Living Compared to Other European Hubs

Spain is more affordable than other Western European countries like Germany, France, or the UK. Rent, food, and general living expenses are significantly lower, making it ideal for remote workers looking for a better quality of life at a reasonable cost.

7. Fast-Track Application Process

The visa application process is streamlined, with approvals typically granted within 20-45 business days, making Spain one of the fastest European countries to issue digital nomad visas.

8. No Requirement to Buy Property

Unlike the Golden Visa, which requires a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate, the Digital Nomad Visa allows applicants to rent or buy property based on personal preference. Also, the Golden Visa is being phased our on April 2nd. 2025.

9. Access to Spain’s Healthcare System

Digital nomads contributing to Spanish social security gain access to Spain’s public healthcare system, ranked among the best in Europe. Those opting out must secure private health insurance covering their stay.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is designed to attract global talent, offering an easy, tax-friendly way to live and work remotely in one of Europe’s most desirable locations.

3. Who is Eligible?

Not everyone qualifies for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa. The program is designed exclusively for remote workers and freelancers who meet specific employment, financial, and legal requirements. Below is a breakdown of the eligibility criteria to help you determine if you qualify.

Who Can Apply?

✅ Non-EU/EEA Citizens – This visa is only available to citizens outside of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a digital nomad visa to live and work remotely in Spain.

✅ Remote Employees – If you work for a company outside Spain, you must:

  • Prove that your employer has been operating for at least one year.
  • Show that you have been working with this company for at least three months before applying.
  • Obtain a letter from your employer authorizing you to work remotely from Spain.
  • Provide a Social security certificate from your country, that is accepted by Spanish Authorities. Currently, only the UK one is being accepted.

✅ Freelancers & Self-Employed Individuals – If you work for multiple clients, you must:

  • Have at least one client located outside Spain.
  • Show that no more than 20% of your total income comes from Spanish clients.
  • Prove you have been working as a freelancer for at least three months before applying.

✅ Sufficient Work Experience or Qualifications
To demonstrate professional credibility, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Hold a university degree or equivalent professional qualification in their field, OR
  • Show proof of at least three years of relevant work experience.

✅ Clean Criminal Record
Applicants must provide a criminal record certificate from every country they have lived in for the past five years. This document must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.

✅ Health Insurance Requirement
You must have private health insurance with full coverage in Spain unless you plan to register as self-employed and pay into the Spanish social security system.

✅ Minimum Income Requirement (2025 Update)
Spain sets minimum income thresholds to ensure applicants can support themselves without relying on public funds. As of 2025, the required income is based on the Spanish Minimum Wage (SMI):

Family Members Monthly Income Required (2025) Annual Income Required (2025)
Single applicant €2,763 €33,156
Applicant + 1 family member €3,799 €45,588
Applicant + 2 dependents €4,144 €49,728
Applicant + 3 dependents €4,490 €53,880
Applicant + 4 dependents €4,835 €58,016

Income can be proven through bank statements, employment contracts, tax returns, or pay stubs.

Who is NOT Eligible?

❌ EU/EEA Citizens – They do not need a Digital Nomad Visa and can move to Spain freely under EU laws.
❌ Individuals Seeking Local Employment in Spain – This visa does not allow employment with Spanish companies beyond 20% of total income.
❌ Short-Term Freelancers – If you have less than three months of experience with your current clients or employer, your application will likely be rejected.
❌ Applicants Without a Clear Financial Track Record – If you cannot provide proof of income, you are unlikely to qualify.

If you meet these requirements, you can move forward with your application.

4. Required Documents

To ensure a smooth application process, it is crucial to gather all required documents in advance. Missing or incorrectly prepared documents are among the most common reasons for visa denials. Below is a detailed checklist of everything you need to apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa.

✅ Essential Documents for All Applicants

  1. Visa Application Form – Completed and signed. Available from the Spanish consulate or online.
  2. Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least one year and have two blank pages.
  3. Passport-Sized Photos – Recent, in color, with a white background (as per Schengen visa photo requirements).
  4. Proof of Remote Work or Freelance Status:
    • Employees: A letter from your employer stating:
      • Your job position and salary.
      • That the company has been operating for at least one year.
      • That you have worked with them for at least three months.
      • That they authorize you to work remotely from Spain.
      • Social Security certificate
    • Freelancers/Self-Employed:
      • Client contracts showing at least one foreign client.
      • Proof that no more than 20% of income comes from Spain.
      • A letter from a client confirming your remote work arrangement.
  5. Proof of Financial Means – Documents proving you meet the income requirements:
    • Last three to six months of bank statements.
    • Tax returns or payslips.
    • Employer contracts specifying your annual salary in euros.
  6. Criminal Record Certificate – Covering the last five years, issued by the country/countries where you have lived.
    • Must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.
    • A sworn declaration of no criminal offenses may also be required.
  7. Health Insurance Policy –
    • Must provide full coverage in Spain (travel insurance is not accepted).
    • If registering as self-employed in Spain, you can opt for public healthcare coverage instead.
  8. Proof of Professional Qualification or Experience (One of the following):
    • A university degree in your field.
    • Three years of professional experience, verified by:
      • Work history reports from your country (e.g., HMRC work history report for the UK).
      • Tax returns showing self-employed status.
      • W2s/1099s (for US applicants).
  9. Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Must be translated into Spanish.
  10. NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) – Foreigner Identity Number
  • Required if applying from Spain, obtained from a police station or foreigner’s office.
  1. Proof of Accommodation in Spain
  • Lease agreement, property deed, or hotel/Airbnb booking.
  1. Visa Fee Payment Receipt
  • Fee varies by country but is typically €80.

✅ Additional Documents for Family Members

If bringing spouses, children, or dependent parents, you will need:

  • Marriage certificate (for spouses).
  • Birth certificates (for children).
  • Proof of dependency (for elderly parents).
  • All documents must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Rejection

🚫 Documents not translated into Spanish or missing apostille certification.
🚫 Employer letters without official stamps or signatures.
🚫 Insufficient proof of stable income (random bank deposits instead of proper contracts).
🚫 Applying with an employer or client who has been in business for less than one year.
🚫 Submitting incomplete criminal background checks.

Once you have gathered and verified all documents, you are ready to begin the application process.

5. Step-by-Step Application Process (2025)

Applying for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa can be done in two ways:

  1. Applying from your home country through the Spanish consulate.
  2. Applying from Spain while on a tourist visa.

Each option has pros and cons, but applying from Spain is generally faster and more convenient if you are eligible.

Option 1: Applying from Your Home Country (Spanish Consulate Route)

If you are outside Spain, you must apply at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

  • Use the document checklist in the previous section to ensure you have everything correctly prepared (including translations and apostilles).

Step 2: Book an Appointment at the Spanish Consulate

  • Visit your local Spanish consulate’s website to schedule an appointment.
  • Processing times vary by country, so book early.

Step 3: Submit Your Application & Pay the Fee

  • Bring all original documents and copies.
  • Pay the visa application fee (usually €80, varies by country).

Step 4: Wait for Processing (15 – 45 Days)

  • Spanish consulates typically take 15 to 45 business days to process visa applications.
  • If additional documents are requested, this may extend the timeline.

Step 5: Receive Your Visa & Travel to Spain

  • Once approved, you will receive a one-year digital nomad visa.
  • You must enter Spain within 90 days of visa issuance.

Step 6: Apply for Your Residence Card (TIE) in Spain

  • Within 30 days of arriving in Spain, schedule an appointment at a foreigners’ office (Extranjería) or National Police Station to obtain your residence card (TIE – Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero).

Option 2: Applying from Spain (Recommended for Fast Processing)

If you are already in Spain on a tourist visa, you can apply directly from Spain—this method is often faster.

Step 1: Enter Spain on a Tourist Visa

  • Non-EU nationals from countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia can stay in Spain for up to 90 days visa-free.

Step 2: Obtain an NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) and Digital Certificate

  • The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is required for official procedures.
  • A Digital Certificate (Certificado Digital) is necessary for online government applications.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online via UGE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas)

  • Applications from Spain are processed by UGE-CE (Large Business Unit), a specialized office that handles fast-track visa approvals.
  • You can apply online using your Digital Certificate or hire an immigration expert to apply on your behalf.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee & Await Approval

  • Processing time is typically 20-30 business days.

Step 5: Collect Your Residency Card (TIE)

  • Once approved, you have 30 days to visit Extranjería (Foreigner’s Office) and provide fingerprints for your TIE residence card.

Comparison: Applying from Home vs. Applying from Spain

Factor Applying from Home (Consulate) Applying from Spain (Tourist Visa Route)
Processing Time 15 – 45 business days 20 – 30 business days
Initial Visa Validity 1 year 3 years
Can You Work While Waiting? No (must wait for approval) Yes (once application is submitted)
Requires Travel Before Approval? No (apply from home country) Yes (must enter Spain first)
Residency Card (TIE) Required? Yes Yes

If you are already in Spain or comfortable entering on a tourist visa, applying from within Spain is often the better choice.

Once your application is approved, the next step is understanding your tax obligations in Spain.

6. Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa & Taxes: What You MUST Know

One of the biggest advantages of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is its favorable tax treatment under the Startup Law. However, tax obligations can be complex, and failing to understand them could lead to unexpected financial burdens. Here’s what you need to know about tax residency, income tax rates, and how to avoid double taxation.

1. Do Digital Nomads Have to Pay Taxes in Spain?

It depends on how long you stay.

  • If you stay in Spain for 183 days or more in a calendar year, you will be classified as a Spanish tax resident and required to pay Spanish income tax.
  • If you stay less than 183 days per year, you remain a tax resident of your home country and do not pay income tax in Spain.

However, even if you stay less than 183 days, Spain can still consider you a tax resident if your center of economic interests is in Spain (e.g., if your family lives there, or if most of your income is derived from Spain).

2. What is the Special Tax Regime for Digital Nomads?

There is a special tax regime for digital nomads, known as the Beckham Law tax system. This allows eligible foreign remote workers to pay a flat 24% tax rate on their earnings up to €600,000 per year for the first four years of residency.

Income Bracket Tax Rate (Startup Law for Digital Nomads) Standard Tax Rate for Residents
Up to €600,000 24% flat rate 19% – 47% (progressive rate)
Above €600,000 47% 47%

This 24% flat rate is a major tax advantage compared to Spain’s normal tax system, where tax rates start at 19% and can go as high as 47%.

✅ Who qualifies for the 24% tax rate?

  • Employees (Not self-employed)
  • Individuals who have not been a tax resident in Spain for the past five years.
  • Must apply for this special tax regime within six months of obtaining the visa.

If you do not apply for the special tax regime, you will be taxed under Spain’s regular tax system, which has much higher rates.

3. Social Security & Health Contributions

Social security payments depend on your employment status:

✅ If you are employed by a foreign company:

  • You may remain under your home country’s social security system if there is a social security agreement with Spain (such as the US, UK, and most EU countries).
  • Your employer may need to register and contribute to Spanish social security if there is no agreement.

✅ If you are self-employed (autónomo):

  • You must register with Spanish social security (RETA).
  • Pay monthly social security contributions (starting at €80/month for the first year, then increasing based on income).
  • Gain access to Spain’s public healthcare system.

4. How to Avoid Double Taxation

Spain has double taxation agreements with over 90 countries, including:

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada, Australia, New Zealand
  • Most European countries

These agreements prevent you from paying taxes on the same income twice. If you are already paying taxes in your home country, you can usually deduct that amount from your Spanish tax bill.

Key Takeaways on Taxes for Digital Nomads in Spain

✅ You become a tax resident if you stay more than 183 days per year.
✅ Apply for the special 24% flat tax rate to save money (Upon eligibility, only valid for the first four years).
✅ Social security rules depend on your work situation—employees may stay under their home country’s system, while freelancers must contribute in Spain.
✅ Double taxation agreements prevent being taxed twice on the same income.

7. What Happens After You Get the Visa?

Once your Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is approved, there are a few important steps to complete before you can fully settle into your new life in Spain. Here’s what you need to do after arriving in the country.

1. Enter Spain and Register Your Address (Empadronamiento)

Within 30 days of arrival, you must register your address with your local town hall (Ayuntamiento). This process, called Empadronamiento, is necessary for obtaining your residency card (TIE) and accessing public services.

Steps to register your address:

  1. Visit your local Ayuntamiento (town hall).
  2. Bring:
    • Your passport and visa.
    • A rental contract, property deed, or utility bill in your name.
    • If staying with a friend or family member, they need to sign a form confirming your residence.
  3. Receive your Certificado de Empadronamiento, proving your registered address.

2. Apply for Your Residency Card (TIE – Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)

The TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) is your official residence permit in Spain. You must apply for it within 30 days of entering the country.

How to apply for the TIE:

  1. Book an appointment at your nearest Extranjería (Foreigner’s Office) or National Police Station via the official website.
  2. Bring:
    • Passport + visa.
    • NIE number (if obtained earlier).
    • Certificado de Empadronamiento (proof of address).
    • A passport-sized photo.
    • Completed EX-17 form (TIE application).
    • Payment receipt for the TIE fee (€15-€20).
  3. Provide fingerprints and submit your application.
  4. Return in 30-45 days to collect your TIE card.

Once you have your TIE, you are officially a resident in Spain under the Digital Nomad Visa.

3. Open a Spanish Bank Account

While it’s not legally required, having a Spanish bank account makes life easier—especially for paying rent, bills, and taxes. Some landlords and service providers only accept Spanish bank transfers.

Best banks for digital nomads:
✅ Traditional banks: BBVA, Santander, CaixaBank.
✅ Online banks with easy setup: Revolut, N26, Wise.

To open an account, you will usually need:

  • Your passport.
  • NIE number.
  • Proof of address (empadronamiento).
  • Your TIE card (some banks allow you to open an account before you receive your TIE).

4. Sign Up for Healthcare (If Required)

If you registered as self-employed (autónomo), you automatically gain access to Spain’s public healthcare system.

If you’re employed by a foreign company and not paying Spanish social security, you’ll need to maintain private health insurance.

✅ If you already have a qualifying private health plan, no further action is needed.
✅ If you want to switch to public healthcare, register with Seguridad Social and get assigned a local health center.

5. Join Spain’s Tax System (If Staying Long-Term)

If you will live in Spain for more than 183 days per year, you must:

  • Register with Agencia Tributaria (Spanish Tax Office).
  • Apply for Form 149 to benefit from the 24% flat tax rate (Upon eligibility)
  • File annual tax returns as a tax resident.

This ensures that you comply with Spanish tax laws and avoid penalties.

6. Explore Your Residency & Citizenship Options

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year (if obtained via consulate) or three years (if obtained from Spain). Here’s what happens next:

✅ Renewing Your Digital Nomad Visa

  • After one or three years, you can renew your visa for two more years.
  • You must still meet the income requirements and prove continued remote work.

✅ Applying for Permanent Residency (After 5 Years)

  • If you have legally resided in Spain for five consecutive years, you may apply for permanent residency.
  • This allows you to stay in Spain without needing visa renewals.

✅ Applying for Spanish Citizenship (After 10 Years)

  • After ten years of residency, you may qualify for Spanish citizenship.
  • Some Latin American, Filipino, Andorran, and Sephardic Jewish applicants may apply after just two years.

7. Enjoy Life in Spain as a Digital Nomad

Once you’ve settled all administrative tasks, you can focus on enjoying your new life in Spain. Whether you’re working from a café in Barcelona, relaxing on the beaches of Valencia, or exploring the mountains in Granada, Spain offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and a fantastic expat community.

Next Steps

Now that you have your visa and residency, what’s next? Understanding the renewal process, long-term residency options, and potential pathways to citizenship can help you plan your future in Spain.

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