The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain allows non-EU nationals to live legally in Spain while working remotely for foreign companies or as digital professionals. Regulated under Law 14/2013, it is one of the most attractive immigration options for international remote workers.
What Is the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain?
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is a residence authorization for non-EU citizens who carry out their professional activity remotely using digital means.
It is designed for:
- Employees of foreign companies
- Freelancers and digital professionals
- Remote workers with international clients
The visa allows applicants to reside in Spain while maintaining their professional activity abroad.
Where Can the Digital Nomad Visa Be Applied For?
There are two possible ways to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain:
- Applying from abroad: The application can be submitted at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over the applicant's place of residence, before traveling to Spain.
- Applying from Spain: If the applicant is legally present in Spain (for example, under a tourist stay), the application may be submitted directly before the Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos (UGE-CE). Legal stay must be maintained throughout the process.
Employment and Financial Requirements
Applicants must prove the following:
- A real employment or professional relationship with a company or clients located outside Spain
- Express authorization from the employer allowing remote work from Spain
- Sufficient professional experience or seniority
- Minimum income of at least 200% of the Spanish Minimum Interprofessional Salary (SMI) for the applicant; 75% of the SMI for the first regrouped family member and 25% for each additional member
Supporting documents typically include employment or service contracts, employer authorization letters, payslips or invoices, and bank statements showing regular income.
Can Digital Nomads Work for Spanish Companies?
The Digital Nomad Visa includes specific limitations on working with Spanish entities:
- As an employee: Working for Spanish companies is not permitted.
- As a freelancer: Services may be provided to Spanish clients up to 20% of total professional activity, provided that at least 80% of income comes from foreign sources.
These rules ensure that the main purpose of the visa — remote work for foreign companies — is respected.
Advantages of the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa
- Legal residence in Spain while working remotely
- Possibility to apply from Spain or abroad
- Access to long-term residence options
- Attractive lifestyle, safety, and connectivity