Digital Nomad Visa Spain
The Spanish digital nomad visa allows individuals to live in Spain while carrying out work for an overseas employer or client. It is a popular category and one of Europe’s top programmes for remote workers.
Our team of immigration lawyers at Total Law has years of experience with the various Spanish work visas and we can help you decide if the digital nomad visa is the best path for you. You can call us today at +44 (0) 333 305 9375 or message us online for immediate advice.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) for Remote Work in Spain?
The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) allows non-European Union citizens to reside legally in Spain while carrying out their professional activity remotely for companies or clients located outside Spanish territory.
There are two categories of Digital Nomad visa which permit different activities:
- Employed – permits work for an overseas employer
- Self Employed – permits work for overseas clients while in Spain
Page Contents
- What is the Spain Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) for Remote Work?
- Main Differences Between Employed and Self-Employed Workers
- Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
- Specific Requirements for Self-Employed Workers on the Digital Nomad Visa
- Specific Requirements for Employed Workers
- Validity & Duration of Spanish Digital Nomad Visa
- Processing Time for Digital Nomad Visa Spain: How Long it Takes
- How To Apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
- Required Documents for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa
- Visa Refusals & Appeals
- Renewing or Extending a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
- Working for a Spanish Company
- What Is the Difference Between the Non-Lucrative Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa?
- What Are the Benefits of Remote Work in Spain?
- How Can Total Law Help?
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Differences Between Employed and Self-Employed Digital Nomads in Spain
Although the general requirements are similar, there are key differences between those who work as employees of a foreign company (employed workers) and those who carry out their professional activity as freelancers or through their own company (self-employed workers).
Main Differences Between Employed and Self-Employed Workers
| Consideration | Employed | Self-employed |
| Professional relationship | Employment contract | Service contract |
| Connection | Foreign company | International clients |
| Minimum seniority | 3 months of employment | 3 months of commercial relationship |
| Own company | Not applicable | A personally owned company may be used |
| Company shareholding | Not required | More than 25% if using your own company |
| Company director | Not required | Yes, if applying through your own company |
| Social Security | Generally an A1 certificate | A1 certificate or registration as self-employed in Spain |
| Main client in Spain | Not permitted | Not permitted |
Which Category Is More Suitable?
- The employed-worker category is usually the simplest option for those who have stable employment with a foreign company.
- The self-employed category, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility to entrepreneurs, consultants, and business owners who work with international clients and wish to establish themselves in Spain while maintaining their professional activity.
General Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
Both employed workers and self-employed workers must meet the following general requirements:
No criminal record
Applicants must not have a criminal record in Spain or in the countries where they have resided in recent years.
Proof of professional qualification
- A university degree or equivalent qualification; or
- Proof of at least three years of professional experience related to the activity to be carried out.
Health Insurance and Social Security
It is essential to have public or private health insurance that provides coverage throughout Spain and meets the requirements established by Spanish regulations. The policy must comply with the criteria established by the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE).
The policy must include coverage equivalent to Spain’s public healthcare system, including primary care, specialist treatment, hospitalization, and emergency medical services, without exclusions that would affect my residency eligibility.
Proof of sufficient income
For 2026, the main applicant must prove minimum income of €2,849 per month (€34,188 per year). If family members are included in the application, the minimum required income increases according to the following table:
| Main applicant – 200% SMI | First family member – 75% SMI | Second family member – 25% SMI | |||
| annual | monthly | annual | monthly | annual | monthly |
| 34,188 € | 2,849 € | 12,820 € | 1,068 € | 4,273 € | 356 € |
From the third member of the family unit onward, the required amount increases by €356 per month for each additional person. These amounts may be updated annually based on the Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMI).
Specific Requirements for Employed Workers on Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad visa for employed workers category is intended for those who maintain an employment relationship with a foreign company through an employment contract.
Employment contract
Under the employed workers route, there must be a formal employment relationship with a company located outside Spain.
Minimum seniority
The employment relationship must have lasted for at least three months prior to the application.
Established foreign company
The employing company must meet the following requirements:
- Be legally incorporated.
- Have at least one year of demonstrable activity.
- Expressly authorize remote work from Spain.
Main restriction
The worker may not be employed by a Spanish company.
Social Security
In general, an A1 certificate or equivalent document is required to prove social security contributions in the country of origin, in addition to having appropriate health insurance.
Specific Requirements for Self-Employed Workers on the Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad visa for self employed workers option is intended for freelancers, consultants, independent contractors, and business owners who provide services to international clients.
Foreign client
The applicant must have at least one international client that is a registered company with at least one year of demonstrable activity.
Prior professional agreement
The service agreement must have been in force for at least three months before the application. The client must also expressly authorize the provision of remote services from Spain.
Validity & Duration of Digital Nomad Visa
The digital nomad validity period depends on where and how you apply.
If you apply outside of Spain
If you apply outside of Spain through a Spanish consulate the Digital Nomad visa will be valid for one year, or for the same period as the residence and work authorization granted by the Spanish authorities. This is regardless of if you choose the self-employed or employed route. After this, the holder may apply for a residence permit if they wish to remain for a longer period.
The visa itself serves as proof of legal residence in Spain during its validity period. While obtaining a TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) is not always mandatory for visa holders who have applied through a consulate, many residents choose to obtain one as it can simplify administrative procedures, identification and dealings with Spanish authorities.
If you Apply from Spain
Entering as a Tourist and Switching to Digital Nomad Visa Within 90 Days
If you first enter Spain as a tourist on a Schengen visa (or visa-free/with ETIAS) you may apply for authorization within 90 days of your stay. To qualify, you must remain in Spain. The visa duration depends on the route:
- Under the Digital Nomad visa employed worker route, your stay will be valid for 2 years providing you apply with an A1 certificate.
- Under the self-employed route, your stay will typically be valid for three years
Processing Time for Digital Nomad Visa Spain: How Long it Takes
| From | From Completed Application | Before/After Completed Application |
| Applying from Outside Spain | 4 to 8 weeks with processing times varying by consulate | Applicants should prepare their application in advance, collecting documentation. You will need to apply for an NIE before making your application, which takes around 10 days. |
| Applying from Inside Spain | Typically 20 business days from the date of a completed application | You will typically need to submit your biometrics and apply for a TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) at a relevant police station and wait for a TIE once approved. Your residence authorization serves as proof, but you should not typically leave Spain for several weeks until this is granted. |
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa
Applications for the Spanish Digital Nomad visa may be submitted either through the Spanish Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence or directly in Spain if the applicant is legally present as a tourist.
Option 1: Apply Through a Spanish Consulate
- It is necessary to apply in advance for the NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) before starting the procedure. Applicants should bring a valid passport and identity document, plus original and a copy where required by the consulate.
- Gather the required documents, including proof of employment or professional activity, evidence of sufficient financial means, health insurance coverage, criminal record certificates, and any other supporting documents.
- Submit the Digital Nomad Visa application at the corresponding Spanish Consulate, where the consular office reviews the application and may request an interview or extra evidence.
Option 2: Apply through UGE from Within Spain
- Enter Spain legally, typically as a tourist, and submit the application during the permitted stay period; this temporary route does not grant legal residence for remote work on its own and is only used before filing the digital nomad application.
- Prepare and submit the application to a UGE (Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit), making sure any foreign documents are legalized or apostilled and translated where required.
- You may be asked to provide missing documents or additional information during review. If no decision is issued within this period, the application may be deemed approved by administrative silence, subject to the applicable regulations if you do not receive a response within 20 business days.
- After receiving your visa approval you must attend the relevant police station to provide biometric data and apply for the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card). It can take several weeks to book an appointment for a TIE and similar to arrive. It is generally advised to avoid international travel until the TIE has been issued.
Comparison: Applying from Abroad vs Applying Inside Spain
| Route | For | Duration (initial) | Key differences / notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply at Spanish consulate abroad | Applicants currently outside Spain or applying before entry | Up to ~12 months. | Standard visa; then convert to residence permit in Spain before expiry. of 12 month initial permission |
| Apply for residence permit inside Spain (legal stay) | Applicants already legally in Spain (e.g., on tourist visa) | Up to ~3 years initially. | Must meet legal stay criteria and document conversion process. Typically granted for 2-3 years depending on route (employed/self-employed. |
Guidelines for Bringing Family Members or Partners on the Digital Nomad Visa
As outlined in the table above, family members can be included in an application, at additional cost. They can also be added once you have arrived in Spain, and only the process changes. Similarly to the main applicant’s application, a dependant application is made either:
- Through a Spanish consulate and linked to your primary residency authorization if applying from outside Spain; or
- To the UGE-CE (Large Business and Strategic Collectives Unit) if inside Spain.
As well as proving the required income to support yourself which is €34,188 or 200% of the Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMI) in Spain, you will need to earn additional amounts to bring family members.
| Income Requirements for Additional Family Members | Current Amount/Additional Amount | Current Total |
| Amount required for main applicant | €34,188 | €34,188 (Main applicant) |
| Amount required to support first family member | €12,820 | €47,008 (2 people) |
| Amount required to add second family member | €4,273 | €51,281 (3 people) |
| Amount required to add third family member | €4,273 | €55,554 (4 people) |
| Amount required to add fourth family member | €4,273 | €59,827 (5 people) |
*From the third member of the family unit onward, the required amount increases by €356 per month for each additional person.
Required Documents for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa
When applying for a Digital Nomad visa you will need to submit supporting documentation that shows your eligibility and proves your general circumstances. While exact requirements may vary depending on your situation, you will usually need to submit the following:
- Your valid passport plus a copy
- Proof of your health insurance policy
- A health certificate showing that you have no major conditions that may affect public health
- A criminal record certificate
- A copy of your employment contract covering the last three months or proof of independent contracts showing at least three months of earnings at around €2,400 each month
- An authorisation from your employers that specifically permits you to carry out remote work from Spain
- Details of ongoing or future commissions and contracts if you are self-employed
- Evidence that the company you work for has been incorporated for at least one year (if you are an employee)
- Proof of feasibility, showing that your work is suitable for a remote arrangement
If you wish to bring family members as dependents you will need to provide copies of their passports, proof of your relationship, and evidence that you are able to financially support them. Each family member will need their own health insurance policy.
Can You Work for a Spanish Company as a Contractor or Employee on a Digital Nomad visa?
Self-employed route
You are legally allowed to do work for and invoice Spanish companies if you are self-employed under the Digital Nomad visa.
However, 80% of your work activity must be undertaken for your foreign company. The remaining 20% of business can be from the Spanish market.
Employed by foreign business
You are not permitted to work for a Spanish business and must perform your work exclusively for your foreign employer. You cannot take additional work in Spain on the side.
Digital Nomad Visa vs Non-Lucrative Visa Spain
Both the Digital Nomad Visa and the Non-Lucrative Visa allow foreign nationals to live in Spain, but they are designed for different purposes.
| Digital Nomad Visa | Non-Lucrative Visa |
| Intended for remote working in Spain as an employee or contractor of an overseas employer | Intended for those with income generated through passive means, such as pensions, investments and savings |
| Income from remote work or overseas employer | Passive income |
| Permitted to undertake remote work as an employee or contractor for a foreign employer; or a registered freelancer/business owner. | Work not permitted |
| Ideal for remote workers with foreign contracts or employers | Ideal for retirees |
| Employment route – you cannot work for a Spanish company or perform additional work for a Spanish company on the side Self Employed route – Up to 20% of your income can come from Spanish clients/contracts. 80% must come from overseas. | You cannot work full time, part time or for an overseas employer. Any paid role or role that pays “in-kind” benefits or replaces a paid job is not allowed. Volunteering is allowed if it meets the requirements. |
Renewing or Extending a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
You can stay in Spain for up to 5 years on a Digital Nomad visa. This consists of the initial application, residence permit exchange (if you applied outside Spain), and subsequent renewals. After 5 years, you should apply for a Long Term Residency Permit.
When renewing your Digital Nomad visa after 3 years, you must apply online. You can do so up to 60 days before the expiry of your TIE. You can renew up to 90 days after expiry and generally be treated as a late renewal rather than an illegal overstay, but best practice is to apply before the TIE expires.
- If you applied outside of Spain and are given a 1 year initial Digital Nomad visa, you can exchange it for a residence permit for up to 3 years in total. You can renew once for up to a period of 2 years meaning 5 years in total.
- If you applied from inside Spain (as a tourist) you are immediately granted a 3 year residence permit and don’t need to convert the initial visa. Likewise, you can renew this for 2 years, again totalling 5 years.
Renewals applications are made to the Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos (UGE).
Continuing to Meet the Initial Eligibility Requirements
You must meet the initial Digital Nomad visa eligibility conditions, meaning you must still:
- Prove your work meets or exceeds the remote work income requirements
- Prove you have an adequate medical insurance policy
- Retain a clean criminal record. A new background check can be required
- Obtain a new or renewed certificate of registration (Empadronamiento) from your local Spanish municipality, obtained within 3 months of applying.
Additional Renewal Requirements
Additionally, you must typically provide the following documents when renewing a Digital Nomad visa:
- Bank statements from a Spanish bank account showing where your income is received
- Proof of residence in Spain
- Tax compliance filings or records
- Proof of Spanish Social Security registration
Visa Refusals and Appeals
A visa refusal can be stressful and derail your plans in Spain. The best defence against refusals is a thorough and fully comprehensive application.
Avoiding Visa Refusals
Our Spanish immigration lawyers take the time to understand your situation in full, examine your eligibility, gather correct documentation, file properly and put forward the best possible version of your case for review.
There are multiple reasons to hire an immigration lawyer in Spain, but most people apply for the peace of mind, to significantly reduce the chance of a refusal and to save time and often money when it needs to be right the first time.
One of the most common mistakes is taking out insurance policies that do not meet the specific requirements for this type of residence. Many policies are rejected, even if coverage exceeds €1,000,000, when the policy is not a comprehensive one. Coverage for emergencies is insufficient.
What Happens If Your Spain Digital Nomad Visa Is Refused?
A refusal does not necessarily mean you are ineligible for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa. In many cases, delays and refusals arise because supporting documents are missing, incomplete, incorrectly translated, insufficiently legalised, or do not clearly demonstrate that the eligibility requirements have been met.
Before refusing an application, the Spanish authorities may request additional information or documentation. If this occurs, you will usually be given a deadline to respond. Failure to provide the requested information within the specified timeframe can result in the application being refused.
Common reasons for refusal include failing to meet the minimum income requirement, inadequate private health insurance, insufficient evidence of a qualifying remote working relationship, incomplete application forms, missing supporting documents, or inconsistencies within the application.
Visa refusals are normally notified in writing and should explain the reasons for the decision.
Appealing a Visa Refusal
If your application is refused, you may be able to challenge the decision or submit a fresh application addressing the issues identified by the authorities. Applicants should seek legal advice as soon as possible after receiving a refusal notice.
Applicants may submit an appeal for reconsideration within one month of the day following notification of the refusal. If the refusal is upheld, or where applicable, it may also be possible to pursue a judicial appeal through the Spanish courts within the relevant statutory deadlines.
A judicial appeal is generally brought before the High Court of Justice of Madrid and must be lodged within the applicable legal time limits.
Does the Digital Nomad Visa Restrict Who I Can Work For?
The digital nomad visa generally offers a pretty lenient approach towards the qualifying work and clients, as long as everything is legal and pays enough for you to support yourself. However, as the name implies, this visa caters towards those who work from a distance, hence, whose employers or clients are mostly abroad.
As a freelancer, you may wonder what this means if you have offers from local clients as well. As a rule of thumb, you will need a digital nomad visa if your work is mostly geared towards international customers as local independent work would fall under the self-employed work permission instead.
However, this is not fully black and white and you should usually be fine to accept some work from local clients as long as about 80% of your revenue is earned for overseas work.
What Are the Benefits of Remote Work in Spain?
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa offers attractive benefits for remote workers and their families, making it an appealing route for those looking to live and work in Europe.
- Family can be included in an application
- Processing can be as little as 20 working days
- Switching from a Tourist visa while in Spain is permitted
- Can lead to permanent residency in Spain
- Grants visa-free travel within the Schengen area
- Dependant children can attend public schools for free
How Can Total Law Help?
At Total Law, we provide advice to employed workers, freelancers, and business owners interested in applying for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain.
We analyze each case individually, verify compliance with the legal requirements, review contracts and corporate documentation, and manage the entire procedure to maximize the chances of success.
Contact us to receive a personalized assessment of your situation and discover the best route to obtain your Digital Nomad Visa in Spain.
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By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.
Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Spain digital nomad visa allows for free movement within the European Union but you should keep in mind that you need to meet residential requirements to stay eligible for a permanent residential permit in the future. In general, you should not leave Spain for more than a year in total within your five-year residential requirement period.
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