Spain Digital Nomad Visa – Residence Permit for Remote Workers in Spain

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (International Teleworking Visa) enables non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to live in Spain while working remotely for foreign employers or clients. Ideal for remote workers, freelancers, and corporate relocations, this visa blends professional mobility with Spain’s world-class infrastructure, rich culture, and appealing quality of life. In this guide, we'll walk you through eligibility criteria, 2025 income thresholds, required documents, application steps, and how Jobbatical streamlines the process to make your relocation seamless and stress-free.

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What is the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?

The Spain Digital Nomad Visa, also referred to as the Spain Telework Visa, enables non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to legally live in Spain while performing remote work for companies or clients outside Spain. Holders can travel within the Schengen Area and may count their time toward permanent residency or citizenship.

The visa can be:

• Valid for 1 year if applied for abroad.
  
• Valid for 3 years if applied for in Spain.
  

It is renewable for up to 5 years under 2025 regulations, provided eligibility requirements are continuously met.

Benefits of a Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Obtaining a Spain Digital Nomad Visa offers advantages that go beyond legal residency. It enables both individuals and companies to embrace flexible, location-independent work arrangements while benefiting from Spain’s quality of life, tax incentives, and strategic position within the EU. Whether you’re a professional seeking cultural immersion or an employer looking to retain talent, this visa creates opportunities for growth and connection.

For Individuals

Relocating to Spain on a digital nomad visa is not only a career move but also a lifestyle upgrade. It provides the legal foundation to work remotely while enjoying Spain’s rich cultural heritage, warm climate, and diverse landscapes — from bustling cities to tranquil coastal towns. The visa supports long-term stability while keeping open the possibility of permanent settlement.

• Legal Remote Work – Work for foreign employers or clients while living in Spain.
  
• Schengen Mobility – Travel to 27 countries without additional visas.
  
• Tax Incentives – Apply for a flat 24% tax rate up to €600,000 under the Non-Resident Income Tax Regime.
  
• Family Inclusion – Bring your spouse, dependent children, or parents.
  
• Residency Pathway – Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 10 years (or 1 year for spouses of Spanish citizens).
  

For Employers & HR Teams

For businesses, the Spain Digital Nomad Visa provides a legal and compliant way to support remote work arrangements while maintaining employee engagement. It opens access to a wider talent pool without the costs and complexities of establishing a local entity, making it a strategic tool for global workforce planning.

• Talent Retention – Support key employees’ relocation to Spain to improve job satisfaction and retention.
  
• Compliance Assurance – Ensure immigration law compliance via the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration.
  
• Access to Global Talent – Employ skilled workers without establishing a local office.

Eligibility for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Applicants must meet specific professional, income, and legal criteria to qualify. Spain requires proof of employment or self-employment with mostly non-Spanish clients, minimum income levels, and valid health coverage.

Applicant Requirements

• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationality.
  
• Employment with a non-Spanish company for at least 3 months OR freelance work with a maximum of 20% of income from Spanish clients.
  
• Minimum income: €2,760/month (€33,120/year) in 2025; €3,450/month for first dependent, €920/month per additional dependent.
  
• University degree, recognized qualification, or 3+ years of relevant professional experience.
  
• Employer or client company must have been operational for at least 1 year.
  
• Clean criminal record for the last 5 years.
  
• Private health insurance covering at least €30,000 in Spain.
  
• No illegal stay in Spain in the past 5 years.

Types of Spain Digital Nomad Visa (2025)

While there is only one official visa type under the International Teleworking Visa framework, applicants can qualify under two categories:

1. Remote Employees – Fixed-term or permanent contracts with a non-Spanish employer.
   
2. Freelancers/Self-Employed – Contracts with multiple clients, with at least 80% of income from outside Spain.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements / Document Checklist

Having the correct documentation is essential for approval, as Spanish immigration authorities require precise, complete, and properly formatted submissions. Each document must meet official standards, often including legalisation (apostille) and certified translation into Spanish. Even minor discrepancies — such as mismatched dates or incomplete signatures — can lead to delays or outright rejection. Preparing your application carefully not only speeds up processing but also demonstrates compliance and professionalism. Ensuring your file is accurate from the start significantly improves your chances of a successful outcome.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

The application process for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa involves several stages, from verifying your eligibility to completing your residency registration in Spain. Careful planning and timely submission of documents are key to avoiding delays. Applicants can start the process either from their country of residence or, in certain cases, from within Spain. Each step must be completed according to Ministry regulations to ensure approval.

1. Confirm Eligibility – Ensure you meet the requirements set by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, including employment, income, and remote work criteria.
   
2. Gather Documents – Prepare all required forms and supporting documents, ensuring they are legalized (apostille) and translated into Spanish by a certified translator.
   
3. Submit Application – Apply at the Spanish Embassy/Consulate abroad or at the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE) if applying from within Spain.
   
4. Biometrics Appointment – Attend in person to provide fingerprints, photographs, and original documents for verification.
   
5. Await Approval – Processing typically takes 15–45 days, though peak periods may extend this timeline.
   
6. Enter Spain – Travel within the validity period stated on your visa.
   
7. Apply for TIE – Within 30 days of arrival, schedule an appointment to obtain your Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE).
   
8. Register Locally – Complete your padrón registration at the local town hall to finalize your residency.

Where to Apply for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Choosing the right application location is essential for a smooth process. Depending on your situation, you may apply from your country of residence, through an authorized visa center, or directly within Spain if you already meet the requirements for in-country processing. Each option has its own procedures and timelines, so it’s important to confirm the correct authority before scheduling an appointment. Submitting your application at the appropriate location helps prevent delays and ensures compliance with Spanish immigration regulations.

• Spanish Embassy or Consulate – In your country of residence.
  
• Visa Centers – BLS International or VFS Global (where applicable).
  
• UGE Office in Spain – For in-country applications.

Appointment Details for Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Appointments are a mandatory step in both the visa and residency card (TIE) application processes. Due to high demand, slots can fill quickly, so early booking is strongly recommended. During your appointment, you will present original and photocopied documents for verification and, in most cases, provide biometric data. Being fully prepared for this step can significantly speed up the overall timeline.

• Mandatory for both visa and TIE applications.
  
• Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance due to high demand.
  
• Bring all original and photocopied documents.
  
• Biometrics required unless previously submitted.

Financial Requirements for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa

To qualify for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must demonstrate sufficient and stable income. This ensures you can support yourself — and any dependents — without relying on Spanish public funds. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, employment contracts, or invoices for self-employed applicants. It’s also wise to maintain a financial buffer to cover living costs during your first months in Spain.

• Minimum Income: €2,760/month for a single applicant; €3,450/month for first dependent, €920/month for each additional dependent.
  
• Proof of Income: Bank statements, employment contracts, or invoices.
  
• Additional Funds: Recommended buffer to cover living expenses during the initial months.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa Fees (2025)

Applying for the visa involves several costs that vary depending on your nationality and specific circumstances. In addition to the visa and residency card fees, you should also budget for translations, legalisations, and potential service fees charged by visa centers. Understanding these costs in advance allows you to plan your finances more effectively and avoid unexpected expenses during the process.

• Visa Application Fee: €80–€190 (depending on nationality).
  
• TIE Card Fee: €16.08 per applicant.
  
• Additional Costs: Translations, legalisations, visa center service fees.

Health Insurance for Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Private health insurance is a non-negotiable requirement for this visa type. Your policy must offer comprehensive coverage within Spain, be valid for the full visa duration, and have no exclusions that could affect visa approval. Choosing the right provider ensures you meet legal requirements while having peace of mind during your stay. Always confirm that your insurer is authorized to operate in Spain.

• Cover at least €30,000 in Spain.
  
• Be valid for the full visa duration.
  
• Have no co-payments or coverage exclusions for visa purposes.
  
• Be issued by an authorized provider in Spain.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Rejections

Even qualified applicants can face rejections if key requirements are overlooked. The most common issues include incomplete documentation, insufficient income proof, or inadequate health insurance. Timing is also crucial — missing the 90-day in-country application deadline can invalidate your eligibility. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid costly and time-consuming setbacks.

• Submitting incomplete or incorrectly translated documents.
  
• Failing to meet minimum income thresholds.
  
• Health insurance that does not meet coverage requirements.
  
• Applying with a Spanish-based employer as main income source.
  
• Missing the in-country application deadline (90-day limit).
  
  

Processing Time for Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Processing times vary depending on application location, season, and completeness of your file. While the visa decision is often issued within 15–45 days, peak periods can extend the process to several months. The TIE card typically requires additional time after arrival in Spain. Applying well ahead of your planned relocation date is the best way to avoid last-minute stress.

• Visa Decision: 15–45 days; up to 4 months in peak seasons.
  
• TIE Issuance: 20–45 days after application in Spain.
  
• Recommended to apply at least 6–8 weeks before planned relocation.

How Jobbatical Streamlines Your Spain Digital Nomad Visa Application

Navigating Spain’s visa process can be complex, but Jobbatical simplifies each step with expert guidance. From assessing your eligibility to ensuring all documents meet official requirements, our team provides personalized support for both individuals and corporate clients. By handling the entire process — including post-arrival steps — we help you save time and reduce the risk of errors.

• Eligibility Check – Confirm compliance with 2025 regulations.
  
• Document Preparation – Custom checklists, translations, and legalisations.
  
• Application Management – Submission via embassies, consulates, or UGE.
  
• Post-Arrival Support – TIE appointment booking, padrón registration assistance.

Why Choose Jobbatical for Your Spain Digital Nomad Visa?

Selecting the right partner for your visa application can make the difference between a smooth approval and months of unnecessary delays. Jobbatical combines specialized immigration expertise with technology-driven progress tracking, ensuring you’re informed every step of the way. With our global reach and end-to-end service, we help you relocate with confidence and ease.

• Specialized Immigration Expertise – In-depth knowledge of Spain’s telework visa rules.
  
• Tech-Driven Tracking – Stay informed on every step of your application.
  
• Comprehensive Service – From eligibility checks to residency card issuance.
  
• Global Reach – Support for applicants from any country.