Plan to work remotely from Spain? Here's how the Digital Nomad Visa works

Spain had formally introduced its Digital Nomad Visa as part of its plan to attract international talent. Effective since June 10, 2025, the visa allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain while working remotely for employers or clients located outside the country. The scheme also provides a path for accompanying family members under specific eligibility criteria.

Who can apply?

The visa is open to foreign nationals who intend to reside in Spain while working remotely through telecommunication means. This includes employees working for foreign companies, freelancers, and self-employed professionals with international clients.

While remote work is the primary requirement, self-employed applicants are allowed to work with Spanish companies, provided the Spanish work does not exceed 20% of their overall professional activity.

Applicants must have either:

• A graduate or postgraduate degree from a recognised institution, or
• At least three years of work experience in their current professional field.

Eligible family members

The visa is not limited to individual applicants. The following dependents may also qualify:

• Spouse or unmarried partner
• Dependent children
• Dependent parents or grandparents who are part of the household

Key documentation

All applicants must submit the national visa application form, a recent passport photo, and a valid passport with at least one year of validity and two blank pages.

A criminal background check from countries of residence for the past two years is also mandatory. Indian applicants must submit a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) issued by the Regional Passport Office, apostilled by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and translated into Spanish.

Proof of current residence in the applicant’s consular district is required. If the visa is being filed by a representative, identification proof and legal authorization must be shown.

Work and financial proof

For employees:

• Proof of at least three months of employment with a foreign employer
• The employer’s certificate must confirm duration, remote work permission, and salary

For freelancers:

• Contracts with foreign clients and certificates from relevant commercial registries
• A responsible declaration confirming compliance with Spanish tax and social security obligations

All applicants must also apply for an NIE (Foreign Identification Number) before applying for the visa.

Proof of financial means is mandatory. Applicants must show income equal to 200% of Spain’s monthly minimum wage. For dependents, an additional 75% is required for the first family member and 25% for each additional one.

Health insurance from a provider authorized to operate in Spain is also required, covering the applicant and dependents.

Additional considerations

Applicants working in regulated professions must show degree equivalency or professional recognition by Spanish authorities.

Applicants affiliated with Spain’s Social Security System must present relevant documentation. For those coming from countries with bilateral agreements, a certificate of applicable legislation can substitute this requirement if teleworkers are covered temporarily in Spain.

Application process

Applications are to be submitted in person or via a duly authorized representative at BLS International Visa Application Centres. The Consular Office may request an interview or additional documents.

The decision period is typically 10 working days but may extend depending on documentation or interviews. In case of rejection, applicants may file for reconsideration or appeal before the High Court of Justice in Madrid.

Visa validity

The visa is valid for up to one year, or for the same period as the approved residency and work authorization. While a residence card is not mandatory once in Spain, applicants may apply for it if they wish.

The Digital Nomad Visa positions Spain among a growing list of countries aiming to welcome global professionals looking for location flexibility, family-friendly relocation options, and a Mediterranean lifestyle.