MADRID: Spain Digital Nomad Visa Opens Doors to Remote Workers in 2025
In a move to attract global tech talent, Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa in early 2023, offering foreign remote workers a chance to live and work legally in the country for up to 1 year, with the option to renew up to 5 years. This visa is ideal for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees working remotely for non-Spanish companies.
With its vibrant cities, rich culture, and warm Mediterranean lifestyle, Spain has become a top destination for digital nomads in 2025.
Here’s a complete guide on how to apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, who is eligible, the income requirements, and key benefits.
What is Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa is a type of residence visa that allows non-EU/EEA nationals to live in Spain while working remotely for foreign companies.
It’s part of Spain’s new Startup Law, which was passed to attract international talent and boost innovation.
Eligibility Requirements for Spain Digital Nomad Visa (2025)
To be eligible, you must:
Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
The visa is only for nationals outside the European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland.
Be a remote worker or freelancer
You must:
- Work for a company located outside Spain, OR
- Be a freelancer with foreign clients.
If your client is based in Spain, it cannot account for more than 20% of your income.
Meet the income threshold
You must earn at least 200% of Spain’s minimum wage, which is €2,646 per month or about €31,752 annually in 2025.
- Income can be shown through contracts, payslips, invoices, or bank statements.
Have at least 3 months of remote work history
You must prove that you’ve been working with your employer or clients for at least 3 months prior to applying.
Education or experience
You must hold:
- A university degree, OR
- At least 3 years of professional work experience.
Clean criminal record
You’ll need a certificate of no criminal record from the past 5 years.
Health insurance
Must have private health insurance valid in Spain for the duration of your stay.
Documents Required for Spain Digital Nomad Visa
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
- ✅ Completed national visa application form (Modelo EX-01)
- ✅ Valid passport (minimum 1 year validity)
- ✅ Proof of income (contracts, bank statements, invoices)
- ✅ Remote work proof (work contract or client agreements)
- ✅ University degree or proof of 3+ years experience
- ✅ Private health insurance policy
- ✅ Clean criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated)
- ✅ Passport-size photographs
- ✅ Proof of address (temporary or hotel reservation)
📌 All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized (apostilled).
How to Apply for Spain Digital Nomad Visa (Step-by-Step)
🔹 Step 1: Choose where to apply
You can apply:
- From your home country at the Spanish cosulate
- Or from Spain if you’re already there on a tourist visa (apply within 90 days)
🔹 Step 2: Gather your documents
Ensure every document is complete, correctly translated, and apostilled.
🔹 Step 3: Submit the application
Book an appointment with the Spanish consulate (if applying from abroad) or Immigration Office (if already in Spain).
🔹 Step 4: Wait for approval
Visa processing usually takes 20 to 45 days. If approved:
- You’ll get a 1-year visa, extendable up to 5 years.
- Within 30 days of arriving in Spain, you must apply for your Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE).
Benefits of Spain Digital Nomad Visa
- 🏖️ Live in Spain legally while working remotely
- 📆 1-year visa, renewable for up to 5 years
- 👨👩👧👦 Family members can join with dependent visas
- 🌍 Travel freely within the Schengen Zone
- 🏥 Access to private healthcare and public services
- 🧘♀️ High quality of life: beaches, culture, food, and safety
- 💼 Option to switch to other long-term residency permits after 3 years
🧳 Best Cities in Spain for Digital Nomads in 2025
- Barcelona – Startup hub with great coworking spaces
- Valencia – Affordable and coastal lifestyle
- Madrid – Capital city with global connectivity
- Granada & Seville – Rich history and lower cost of living
- Las Palmas (Canary Islands) – Sunny weather year-round
Final Thoughts
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most attractive options in Europe for remote workers in 2025. With low cost of living, rich culture, tech-friendly cities, and visa renewability, it’s ideal for digital professionals seeking both career growth and quality of life.
Start your visa process early, and prepare your documents carefully. Spain is ready to welcome you!
READ MORE: Best Remote Work Visas in 2025 for South Asian Nomads
FAQs: Spain Digital Nomad Visa 2025
1. Can I bring my family on this visa?
Yes, your spouse and children can join as dependents if you meet income and insurance requirements.
2. Can I apply from inside Spain?
Yes, you can apply from Spain if you are legally present (e.g., on a tourist visa).
3. Do I need to pay taxes in Spain?
If you stay more than 183 days/year, you become a tax resident and must pay Spanish taxes. However, you may qualify for reduced taxation under Spain’s Startup Law (IRNR regime).
4. Is the visa extendable?
Yes, the initial visa is valid for 1 year, and you can renew it for up to 5 years.
5. Can I switch to a permanent residence later?
Yes, after 5 years of legal stay, you may apply for long-term EU residency or Spanish permanent residency.
