Numerous European countries have taken the initiative to introduce Digital Nomad Visa programs, aiming to entice skilled professionals from around the world and bolster their economies. Notable examples of such countries include Georgia, Norway, Malta, and Greece. Given the substantial global interest in these programs and their demonstrated effectiveness, there has been a growing call for other nations to follow suit. Consequently, Spain has recognized this trend and is currently in the process of developing its own Digital Nomad Visa program.

Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain is designed to grant temporary residency rights to foreign individuals who work remotely in the digital sphere and are employed by non-Spanish companies operating outside of Spain. This visa allows them to reside in Spain for a period ranging from six months to two years, depending on their specific circumstances. To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet certain requirements set by the Spanish government. Here are the key details and eligibility criteria:

Eligibility Criteria:

• Foreign Employment: Applicants must be non-EEA nationals employed by a non-Spanish company or have clients outside of Spain.
• Remote Work: The applicant's work must be carried out remotely, allowing them to work from home or anywhere else with an internet connection.
• Income Requirement: Digital nomads must meet the government's minimum income requirement, which is expected to be at least twice the national minimum wage in Spain. Currently, the minimum monthly wage is €1,050, so applicants will likely need to demonstrate earnings of at least €2,100 to €3,000 per month.
• No Recent Residency: Applicants must not have held residency status in Spain within the five years preceding their application.
• Work Experience: Applicants must have been working remotely for at least one year.
• Clean Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required, and applicants must not have been previously prohibited entry to Spain.
• Health Insurance: Applicants must have valid private health insurance coverage that is valid throughout their stay in Spain.
• Accommodation: Proof of accommodation is necessary to demonstrate suitable housing arrangements during the stay in Spain.
• Employment Contract or Evidence of Remote Work: Applicants employed by a foreign company as full-time employees must provide their employment contract and evidence of working with the employing company for a minimum of three months before the application date.

Application Process:

The exact details of the application process for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain are yet to be clarified, as the legislation has recently been approved by the lower house of the Spanish Parliament. However, it is anticipated that individuals will be required to submit their Digital Nomad Visa application form to their local Spanish Consulate or Embassy to obtain permission to reside in Spain as foreign workers.

Upon obtaining the Spanish Nomad Visa, holders will enjoy visa-free travel within the European Union's Schengen Area, which comprises 26 EU member states, for the duration of their visa's validity.

Visa Duration:

Initially, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa will be valid for one year. However, successful applicants can convert their Nomad Visa into a temporary residency permit upon arrival in Spain, with a maximum validity of three years.

Once the renewable residency permit is acquired, holders of the Digital Nomad Visa can extend the validity of their temporary permits for an additional two years during the renewal process. This means that the Digital Nomad Visa can be valid for up to five years. After the fifth year, foreign remote workers may even apply for permanent residency, provided they continue to meet the requirements set by the Spanish government.

Tax Benefits:

Digital nomads residing in Spain under the Digital Nomad Visa program can benefit from significant tax breaks under the Startup Act. They are eligible to pay non-resident income tax rates (IRNR) instead of resident income tax rates (IRPF), resulting in a reduced tax rate of 15% on their personal income for a maximum period of four years. This is advantageous compared to the average tax rate of 24% that residents typically pay.

Furthermore, if digital nomads choose to bring their eligible family members, the special tax regime will also apply to their spouse and children under 25 years old. In cases where the children have disabilities, there is no age limit for eligibility.

Please note that some of the specific details and requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain may change or be subject to additional clarifications as the program becomes fully operational. It is advisable to consult official sources, such as the Spanish Consulate or Embassy, for the most up-to-date and accurate information before initiating the application process.

FAQ

Is there a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain?

Yes, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is currently being developed and is expected to be launched in 2023. The aim is to attract digital nomads and remote workers to Spain.

Can I move to Spain as a digital nomad?

Non-European Economic Area nationals will need to wait for the implementation of the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain in 2023 before they can officially move to Spain as digital nomads. In the meantime, they can explore other options, such as applying for Digital Nomad Visas offered by other countries like the Portugal D7 Visa, which would grant them similar rights.

Can I move to Spain with a remote job?

Currently, EU passport holders have the right to move to Spain with a remote job and can stay for a maximum period of six months without needing a specific visa. However, non-EEA nationals will need to wait for the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain to apply for residency and work remotely in the country.

How can I get residency in Spain?

One option to obtain residency in Spain is through the Golden Visa program, which is a residency-by-investment scheme. Under this program, individuals can qualify for renewable residency rights in Spain by making a significant investment in the country's economy, starting at a minimum of €500,000. The Golden Visa provides a pathway to residency in Spain for eligible applicants.