Digital Nomad Visa in Spain: All You Need to Know in 2025

It was established by Spain’s new Start-ups Law.

A Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is a type of residence permit introduced in Spain at the end of 2022. It allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live in Spain while working remotely for a foreign company or running their own business based abroad. All work must be performed exclusively online using computers, phones, and digital communication tools.

Depending on your specific situation, you must either prove that you remain covered by your home country’s social security scheme while working remotely from Spain or register as self-employed in Spain and contribute to the Spanish social security system and pay taxes. Alternatively, your employer may choose to register in Spain.

Informally known as the “Start-ups Law,” Act 28/2022 of 21 December aims to foster the growth of emerging companies in Spain. This legislation introduced the DNV as part of Spain’s broader initiative to attract international talent by simplifying immigration for remote workers and entrepreneurs. It also provides tax incentives and seeks to reduce administrative barriers.

The DNV provides a range of benefits depending on your circumstances. As noted, it allows foreign digital professionals to live legally in Spain while working for companies or clients outside the country.

Initially, the DNV is valid for three years (unless your work contract or social security coverage is shorter). It can be renewed if you continue to meet the requirements. If you apply through a Spanish Consulate, you will first receive a one-year visa, which can later be renewed as a residence permit.

You may bring family members with you from the start or reunite them later. You must demonstrate the family relationship and have sufficient financial means to support them. For adult dependents, such as grown children or elderly parents, you must prove they are financially dependent on you.

Another significant benefit of the DNV is that it allows for free travel within the Schengen Area during its validity. After five continuous and legal years of residence, you may apply for long-term residency.

Depending on your remote work status, you may be eligible for the tax scheme commonly referred to as the “Beckham Law.”

For any tax related question, we always recommend seeking individual advice with a tax lawyer.

If you’re curious about life in Spain but do not want to give up your current job or business, the DNV offers an attractive way to experience the country while continuing your professional activity in your home country.

The main difference lies in the application process. The Digital Nomad Visa must be requested through the Spanish Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. In contrast, the Digital Nomad Residence Permit is applied for from within Spain, either because the applicant is legally present as a tourist or already holds a different type of residence or temporary stay permit in Spain.

The Digital Nomad Visa allows you to enter and live in Spain for up to one year. However, if you want to stay longer, you can apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, which can extend your stay up to five years.

You can apply for a digital nomad residence permit 60 calendar days before the expiry of your digital nomad visa, should the visa holder wish to extend his or her residence in Spain. It is possible to apply earlier if needed.

The Digital Nomad Residence Permit can be granted for a maximum of 3 years, after which it may be renewed for an additional two years. However, the duration of the permit will depend on factors such as the anticipated end date of the employment relationship with the foreign company and, in cases where a social security agreement is in place, the coverage period.

Additionally, the company you work for must have been active for at least one year, you must have been employed for a minimum of three months, and your work must be fully remote.

The Digital Nomad Visa is open to a large range of professions including but not limited to, IT, marketing, design, consulting, and other digital-based industries. If you work remotely using telecommunications and telematics, you could qualify.

Applicants must provide proof of financial solvency. This may include employment contracts, invoices, payslips, bank statements, or other evidence of a steady income.

Currently, the financial threshold is set at 200% of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI) for the main applicant, 75% for the first family member, and 25% for each additional family member.

As mentioned earlier, you can apply for the DNV either through a Spanish Consulate in your country or from within Spain if you are there legally.

The Consular process usually requires booking an appointment, although in some cases, documents may be sent via courier. It’s important to be aware that appointment availability can be limited, so it’s advisable to begin the process as early as possible. Once you’ve secured an appointment, you’ll need to submit all the required documentation. If your application is approved, you’ll be asked to collect your visa within the designated timeframe and travel to Spain. After your arrival, the next step will be to apply for your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

The in-country process is done electronically, submitting all documents online to the Unit for Large Companies and Strategic Collectives (UGE-CE). Upon approval, you will receive a resolution which allows you to book an appointment at your local police station to request your TIE.

Visa applications through the Consulate should be processed within 10 days, though this may be extended if additional documents are requested.

In-country applications are reviewed within 20 working days by the UGE-CE. If more documents are needed, you have 10 working days to provide them.

Generally, applying from within Spain is faster and more straightforward, but you should assess your situation carefully to decide which route suits you best.

You must continue to meet all conditions that justified your visa approval for the entire duration of its validity.

You can only work for companies outside Spain. However, if you are self-employed, you are permitted to work with Spanish clients, provided they do not account for more than 20% of your total professional activity income.

Digital Nomad Visa holders enjoy the right to live and move freely within Spain and travel across the Schengen Area.

You can also request family reunification and apply for long-term residency after five years.

You must meet all tax and social security obligations during your stay, whether in Spain or in your home country, depending on your employment and legal arrangements.

For any tax related question, we always recommend seeking individual advice with a tax lawyer. You can get in touch with us if you need it.

Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa can look a little different depending on your country of origin. Different countries have different rules, regulations and agreements with Spain. Therefore outlined below is how to obtain a Digital Nomad Visa from specific countries with corresponding articles.

Find further details on how to get a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain for UK residents.

Find further information on the matter here.

Find further information on the matter here.

Find further information on the issue here.

One of the most significant challenges Digital Nomads face is comprehending the tax system in Spain. Navigating healthcare and social security systems can also be complex.

It is recommended that you consult a lawyer or tax advisor who is familiar with Spanish law and International Law. This is important to ensure you are complying with the terms of your visa.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa offers a unique opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most desirable destinations while working at home remotely. With a rich cultural environment, favourable tax laws and the ability to bring family members, this visa provides the flexibility to create a balanced professional and personal life in Spain. Whether you are a freelancer or an employee of a foreign company, the Digital Nomad Visa opens the door to an enriching experience.

Should you need assistance figuring out your eligibility for this opportunity, making your application for it, or have any questions, do not hesitate to contact our team of expert immigration lawyers.

This article is written in collaboration with Julia Gateman and Xenia Rigola, members of the Legal Support Team at Klev&Vera.