Spain Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements and How to Apply

Spain's digital nomad visa, created under its 2022 Startups Law, is one of the most popular routes into Europe for remote workers. Here is exactly how it works.

The income you need

• Main applicant: around 2,850 euros a month (about 34,200 euros a year) as of 2026, equal to 200% of the minimum wage.
• First family member: add 75% of the minimum wage.
• Each additional member: add 25% of the minimum wage.

The figure rises whenever the minimum wage does, so build in a margin and confirm the current number before you file.

Who can apply

• Non-EU nationals working remotely as an employee of a foreign company, or as a freelancer for foreign clients.
• Freelancers may earn no more than 20% of income from Spanish companies.
• The company or main client must have existed at least a year, and you must have worked with them at least 3 months.
• You need a relevant degree or 3 years of experience in your field.

Documents to prepare

• Valid passport and visa application form.
• Employment or service contracts showing the work relationship.
• Proof the company has operated for at least a year.
• Three months of bank statements or payslips.
• Private health insurance with full coverage in Spain and no co-pays.
• Criminal record certificate, apostilled and translated, covering recent countries of residence.
• Proof of your degree or experience.

How to apply

1. 1

   Choose your route

   A consulate abroad for a 1-year visa, or in-country through the UGE for a 3-year permit.
2. 2

   Gather and legalize documents

   Apostille and translate your criminal record and any official papers.
3. 3

   Submit your application

   At the consulate, or to the UGE if you are already in Spain legally.
4. 4

   Collect your card

   Apply for the TIE residence card once approved.

The in-country UGE route is usually decided in about 20 working days and gives the longer 3-year permit, which is why many applicants prefer it.

Tax and residency

• Spending more than 183 days a year in Spain makes you a Spanish tax resident.
• Eligible employees can elect the Beckham regime: a flat 24% on Spanish income up to 600,000 euros, for up to 6 years.
• The years on the visa count toward permanent residency at 5 years.

Common mistakes

• Applying with the literal doubled monthly wage instead of the higher annualized figure.
• Assuming freelancers qualify for the Beckham flat tax. Usually they do not.
• Buying health insurance with co-pays, which gets rejected.
• Letting Spanish clients exceed the 20% income limit.

Comparing options? See our digital nomad visa countries guide, the general how to get a digital nomad visa steps, or our broader guide to relocating to Spain.