Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

Digital Nomad Visa

5/1/20254 min read

Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most popular yet complex residency permits offered by Spanish regulations. Before starting the application process, it is important to fully understand the Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements set by Spanish authorities to qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa.

This article aims to provide an in-depth look at these requirements to help you better understand this excellent residency and work permit. Should you need more information,

Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements Summary

  • Professional competence: Diploma or 3 years of professional experience.

  • Criminal record: No criminal record in the countries where you have resided in the last 5 years.

  • Social Security: Meet the requirements regarding Social Security.

  • Contract: Have a contract with a company that has been operating for at least one year before the application, detailing the relevant conditions of the professional relationship.

  • Collaboration: Evidence of collaboration with the company for at least 3 months before the application.

  • Income: Monthly income of at least €2,646.

  • Administrative fee: Pay the administrative fee 790 038

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Professional Competence

To attract qualified foreign labor, authorities require documents that prove professional competence through either of the following two routes:

  1. University Diploma: A university degree related to the activity to be carried out as a Digital Nomad. Sometimes an explanatory letter is useful.

  2. Professional Experience: Documentation demonstrating 3 years of experience in the sector. Employment contracts, recommendation letters, or company certificates can be used.

Absence of Criminal Record

A criminal record certificate from the countries where you have resided in the last 2 years is required, along with a declaration that you have no criminal record in the last 5 years. For example, a U.S. citizen will need a federal document issued by the FBI.

Social Security Requirement

This requirement varies according to the applicant’s situation

  • Employee: If the company’s country has a Social Security agreement with Spain, a Certificate of Coverage may be requested. Alternatively, the foreign company can register with the Spanish Social Security and enroll the worker, though this is uncommon

  • Self-Employed: A declaration committing to register as self-employed upon receiving a favorable resolution is required. Self-employed individuals in Spain must pay a monthly fee based on their income and file quarterly VAT and income tax returns.

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Contract and Authorization Letter with Non-Spanish Company

The requirement is to work remotely with a non-Spanish company that has existed for at least one year before the application. Necessary documents include a work contract, an authorization letter from the company, and a certificate of the company’s establishment.

Evidence of Collaboration with the Company for at Least 3 Months Before the Application

It is essential to demonstrate a work relationship of at least 3 months with the non-Spanish company through payslips, invoices, and bank statements.

Meeting the Minimum Economic Threshold

The minimum required income is based on the professional Minimum Wage (SMI). The specific amounts are:

  • Single applicant: €31,752/year.

  • Applicant + 1 family member: €43,659/year.

  • Applicant + 2 family members: €47,628/year.

  • For each additional family member: €3,969 more.

Payment of the Administrative Fee

The administrative fee 790 038 (€73.26 per applicant) must be paid. If the application is made from abroad, the consular fee corresponding to the Spanish Consulate must be paid.

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Required Documents for the Application

The necessary documents can vary, but generally include:

  • MI-T or National Visa application form.

  • Complete passport.

  • Criminal record certificate.

  • Declaration of absence of criminal records.

  • Social Security obligations document.

  • Evidence of professional competence.

  • Updated CV.

  • Authorization letter from the non-Spanish company.

  • Contract with the non-Spanish company.

  • Certificate of establishment of the non-Spanish company.

  • Documents proving the work relationship of at least 3 months with the non-Spanish company (payslips or invoices and bank statements).

  • Proof of payment of the administrative fee.

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FAQ

Q: Is it possible to use savings or other income sources to supplement professional activity income?

A: Yes, but only to a limited extent. Generally, no more than 15% of the required amount should come from savings or other non-labor income.

Q: When should I register as self-employed with Spanish Social Security?

A: As soon as possible. Delaying registration could result in the withdrawal of the digital nomad authorization. It is advisable to register promptly and ensure any delay is justified.

Q: Can I apply for the Digital Nomad Visa as a business owner?

A: Yes, you can apply either as an individual billing your own company or through your company billing another non-Spanish company. Both methods are common and effective.

Q: Is it better to apply for this permit from Spain or through the Spanish Consulate abroad?

A: If possible, it is recommended to apply from Spain because the processing authority in Spain is very transparent about the requirements, and the Digital Nomad Visa is granted for 3 years instead of 1 year.