Spain's new digital nomad visa: key facts
Published
Spain plans to launch a brand new digital nomad visa to capitalize on the explosion in remote work opportunities accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Startup Law recently passed by the Spanish Parliament allows people who work remotely for foreign companies to live in the country without needing a full work visa. It is hoped this will boost talent and investment in Spain and improve the country's reputation as a... global economic center .
This article explains the most important information that potential applicants need to know before applying for the new one universe need to know. It explains who can apply, how long the visa is valid for and other important facts about the imminent introduction of the permit.
Requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa in Spain
At present, the proposed new visa is not yet fully embedded in the country's legal framework. However, one of the known main requirements for the digital nomad visa is that it is open to foreign workers employed by non-Spanish companies.
The new permit for remote workers will join the ranks of Arrange Spanish visas that the country already offers. It also comes just before the start of the new EU-wide ETIAS-Vismubefreiung for tourists in May 2023.
Who can get a digital nomad visa in Spain?
The new Spanish remote worker visa was created for foreign workers from countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA). People with EU passports or from Schengen countries can work in the country for less than 6 months a year without having to be officially registered.
For those arriving from non-EU countries, the new digital nomad visa allows you to apply if you are either employed by non-Spanish companies and have an income of less than 20% coming from Spanish companies.
The new visa will also simplify the process of applying for a residence permit upon arrival. It is currently required to apply for a permit to local municipalities within 30 days of arrival in Spain.
The digital nomad visa is a perfect option for people who work remotely as a freelancer or entrepreneur with multiple clients. It also benefits people who are employed full-time by foreign companies and have the opportunity to work from home or abroad.
How to apply for the Spanish digital nomad visa
It is not yet entirely clear how the digital nomad visa can be obtained as the Spanish Parliament is still considering the legislation.
However, as the proposed permit is a national visa for Spain, it is likely that applicants will need to visit a local consulate or a Spanish one Message to register and obtain permission to work in the country.
How long is a digital nomad visa valid in Spain?
The new Spanish digital nomad visa is expected to be valid for one year after approval. In addition, under the current proposals, the visa can be extended for a further 2 years if the necessary requirements are still met.
Can I use a Spanish tourist visa to work remotely?
Most countries, including Spain, do not allow foreigners to work within their borders on a tourist visa. This is why the new digital nomad visa is being introduced.
Before the introduction of the digital nomad visa, it was possible to obtain a non-lucrative visa to stay in Spain. However, this limits the economic activity of workers and does not allow them to find jobs in the country.
It is of course essential to only travel to Spain with the correct visa for specific circumstances. Otherwise, the authorities could refuse to issue permits for future trips to Spain.
The proposed digital nomad visa in Spain offers remote workers and entrepreneurs an exciting new way to experience life in the country while earning a regular income. It also simplifies many of the formalities required to live and work in Spain for a few months or up to a year.
