Thinking of working remotely from sunny Spain? The Digital Nomad Visa makes it possible for non-EU citizens to live and work legally in Spain while enjoying its vibrant culture, pleasant climate, and affordable lifestyle. This guide explains everything you need to know in 2025—from eligibility to the application process and required documents.
Spain isn’t just for remote workers—it’s also a top destination for retirees. If you're considering retiring here, don’t miss our in-depth guide on living expenses: Spain Cost of Living for Retirees: Monthly Breakdown.
📌 What Is Spain's Digital Nomad Visa?
Spain's Digital Nomad Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA nationals who work remotely for foreign companies or clients. It allows eligible professionals to reside in Spain for up to 12 months initially, with extensions available. It also grants access to the EU's Schengen Area for travel.
✅ Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a non-EU/EEA citizen
- Work remotely for a non-Spanish company or clients (as an employee or freelancer)
- Have at least 3 months of work history with your employer or clients
- Prove a stable monthly income of at least €2,500–€3,000
- Hold a university degree or demonstrate at least 3 years of relevant work experience
Choosing the right city in Spain is key to your lifestyle as a digital nomad. For a detailed cost comparison between top cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, check out our full breakdown: Cost of Living in Madrid vs Barcelona vs Valencia (2025).
📄 Required Documents
Gather the following documents before applying:
- Valid passport
- Proof of employment or freelance contracts
- Proof of income (bank statements, invoices, payslips)
- University degree or work experience proof
- Criminal background check (issued within the last 3 months)
- Private health insurance valid in Spain
- Address in Spain (rental agreement or hotel booking)
To apply for the digital nomad visa, you'll need a Spanish bank account for proof of financial means. Learn how to open one easily, avoid hidden fees, and choose between local and digital banks in our full guide: Banking in Spain for Expats.
U.S. citizens are among the most common applicants for this visa. If you're relocating from the United States, be sure to read our complete relocation checklist: Moving to Spain from USA: Checklist & Costs.
📝 Application Process
There are two ways to apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa in 2025:
🔹 Apply from Abroad:
- Submit your application at a Spanish consulate in your home country
- Receive a 1-year visa
- Apply for a residence permit after arrival in Spain
🔹 Apply from Spain:
- Enter Spain as a tourist
- Apply for the visa within 90 days of arrival
- Get a 3-year residence permit directly
Wondering how citizens from countries like the UK, Canada, or Australia can apply? Check our detailed relocation guide tailored to your country of origin: Moving to Spain from UK/Canada/Australia.
💼 Taxes & Benefits
Digital Nomads may qualify for a reduced tax rate of 24% on income up to €600,000 under Spain’s special tax regime. You can also benefit from access to local services, banking, and long-term housing opportunities.
If you plan to work as a freelancer while living in Spain under the digital nomad visa, it’s essential to understand the local tax obligations. Check out our full guide on freelancing in Spain to learn how to register legally, pay VAT, and optimize your deductions.
👨👩👧 Can I Bring My Family?
Yes. The Digital Nomad Visa allows you to bring your spouse and dependent children. You’ll need to show higher income to support them—typically 75% more for the spouse and 25% per child.
📅 How Long Is It Valid?
The visa is valid for:
- Up to 1 year if applied from abroad
- Up to 3 years if applied from within Spain
You can renew it for 2 additional years, leading to permanent residency eligibility after 5 years of legal stay.
💡 Final Tips
- Start gathering documents early—translations and apostilles may be required
- Use a gestor or immigration lawyer to speed up the process
- Check for recent updates as Spanish immigration rules evolve frequently
Once you’ve secured your digital nomad visa, don’t forget to plan ahead for your tax obligations. From NHR benefits to residency-based taxation, our in-depth article on Spain Taxes for Expats covers everything you need to know about how to manage your finances legally and efficiently in 2025.
If you’re not planning to work while living in Spain, another popular option is the Non‑Lucrative Visa, ideal for retirees and individuals with passive income. Explore if it’s a better fit for your lifestyle.
🎯 Conclusion
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa is a game-changer for remote workers looking to enjoy life in one of Europe’s most beautiful and livable countries. With the right documents and preparation, you could be sipping café con leche in a sunny plaza while working from your laptop sooner than you think.
Not sure where to settle once your visa is approved? Take a look at our in-depth overview of the best places to live in Spain for digital nomads and retirees, with insights on cities that offer great internet, lifestyle, and community support. mistakes to avoid when moving to Spain
Comparison of Popular Spanish Residency Visas (2025)
Spain offers several visa options for expats depending on your purpose of stay. Here's a quick comparison of the most relevant ones:
Visa Type | Best For | Work Permission | Minimum Income | Main Requirement |
---|---|---|---|---|
Digital Nomad Visa | Remote workers & freelancers | ✅ Yes (remote work only) | Approx. €2,520/month (200% of minimum wage) | Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts |
Non-Lucrative Visa | Retirees & passive income earners | ❌ No | Approx. €2,400/month | Stable passive income (pension, savings, rental income) |
Entrepreneur (D2) Visa | Startups & business owners | ✅ Yes | Variable | Business plan approved by Spanish authorities |
Job Seeker Visa | Non-EU citizens seeking employment | ✅ Once job is secured | Proof of funds for 6 months | Graduate degree or higher education qualification |
📽️ Watch This Before Applying
If you want more guidance, here’s a helpful video that breaks down the Spain Digital Nomad Visa in 2025 step by step:
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