Madrid has become a key destination for digital nomads thanks to its vibrant cultural scene, its global connectivity and the growing number of co-working spaces on offer. If you are a remote professional looking to settle in the Spanish capital, this guide will provide you with all the information you need on where to work, live and enjoy yourself while working remotely.

1. Why choose Madrid as a digital nomad?

Madrid is not only the capital of Spain, but also one of the most attractive European cities for digital nomads for the following reasons:

  • Global connections: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport with flights all over the world.
  • Fast and stable internet: Fibre optics are available almost everywhere in the city.
  • Quality coworking spaces: Wide range of collaborative workspaces.
  • Moderate cost of living: Compared to other European capitals such as London or Paris, Madrid offers a good balance between quality of life and costs.
  • Pleasant climate: Mild winters and hot summers, but with lots of green spaces.
  • Leisure and culture: A wide range of museums, theatres, concerts and events.
  • International community: Madrid is home to a growing community of expats and digital nomads.
  • Good food: Tapas, markets and restaurants with set menus at affordable prices.

2. Best neighbourhoods for digital nomads in Madrid

Depending on your lifestyle, Madrid has several areas that are ideal for digital nomads:

  • Chamberí: A traditional neighbourhood with a quiet atmosphere and excellent connectivity, with coworking options such as ILCOWORKING.
  • Malasaña: Young, with lots of cafés with Wi-Fi and a vibrant nightlife.
  • Chueca: Diverse atmosphere and lots of trendy restaurants and bars.
  • Salamanca: Elegant area with premium coworking spaces.
  • Lavapiés: Multicultural and with a bohemian lifestyle.
  • Retiro: Ideal if you like being close to green areas and having a peaceful environment.
  • La Latina: Perfect for those who enjoy tapas and an active social life.
  • Arganzuela and Delicias: Good transport links and more affordable rents.
  • Tetuán: An affordable alternative with a diverse and growing community.

3. Best cafés for working in Madrid

If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere than a coworking space, Madrid is full of cafés with good Wi-Fi:

4. Accommodation for digital nomads

Short-term rental options

  • Airbnb: Ideal for short or medium stays.
  • Spotahome: Platform specialising in long-term rentals.
  • Uniplaces: Specially designed for students and remote workers.
  • Coliving: Options such as Urban Campus and The Central House offer community and flexibility.
  • Homyspace: Temporary rentals tailored to remote workers.

Economy options

If you are looking for more affordable options, you can choose from:

  • Hostels with coworking spaces such as Bastardo Hostel.
  • Rooms in shared flats through Idealista or Badi.
  • Student residences with flexibility for digital nomads.

5. Recommended coworking space: ILCOWORKING

If you are looking for a coworking space in Madrid with a vibrant community and comprehensive services, ILCOWORKING is the ideal option. Located in the central neighbourhood of Chamberí, it offers:

  • Private offices and flexible workstations.
  • Fully equipped meeting rooms.
  • Legal and tax advice.
  • Professional and collaborative environment.
  • Access to events and networking with other professionals.

With a strategic location near the Glorieta de Bilbao, ILCOWORKING is perfect for digital nomads looking for productivity, comfort and professional connections in the heart of Madrid.

Madrid is a vibrant city full of opportunities for digital nomads. With a wide variety of coworking, accommodation, transport and social life options, it is an ideal destination for working and enjoying yourself at the same time. Discover all that Madrid has to offer and find your ideal workspace at ILCOWORKING!

FAQs for Digital Nomads in Madrid

1. How do I get a visa for digital nomads in Madrid?

Madrid is an ideal destination for digital nomads and, from 2023, Spain will offer a visa for digital nomads aimed at remote workers who wish to reside in the country. To obtain it, you must meet certain requirements:

  • Work for a foreign company or as a freelancer with international clients.
  • Demonstrate a minimum monthly income of approximately €2,520 per month.
  • Have private health insurance.
  • Not have a criminal record in the last five years.
  • Present an employment contract or evidence of stable economic activity.

This initial visa lasts for one year, with the possibility of extension for up to five years. You can apply for it at the Consulate of Spain in your country or from Madrid if you are a tourist. It also allows you to bring your immediate family. If you are an EU citizen, you only need the NIE and to register in Madrid. For more information, visit the official website of the Spanish Government.

2. Where can I find temporary accommodation for digital nomads in Madrid?

If you are a digital nomad arriving in Madrid, you will need flexible accommodation options. Some recommended platforms include:

  • Airbnb: Ideal for short-term rentals.
  • Spotahome: Perfect for stays of more than a month without the need to visit the property.
  • Uniplaces: Designed for students and remote workers.
  • Urban Campus and The Central House: Coliving with shared workspaces.
  • Residences and hostels with coworking spaces such as Bastardo Hostel or The Hat.

If you prefer something more stable, you can look for rooms in shared flats through Idealista, Badi or RoomGo. The key is to choose a well-connected neighbourhood, such as Chamberí, Malasaña or Arganzuela. Madrid offers many options tailored to digital nomads!

3. What are the best banks for digital nomads in Madrid?

Opening a bank account in Madrid as a digital nomad can make your life easier. Some of the best options include:

  • N26: A digital bank with no fees, ideal for managing online payments and international transfers.
  • Revolut: Another digital alternative with currency exchange and no hidden fees.
  • BBVA: A traditional bank with online account options and no direct debit requirements.
  • Santander: Offers financial products for foreigners with temporary residence.

If you are from the EU, opening an account is relatively simple with your NIE and an address in Spain. For non-residents, digital banks such as N26 or Revolut are the best option.

4. How do I get an NIE as a digital nomad in Madrid?

The Foreigners Identification Number (NIE) is necessary to rent flats, open a bank account or subscribe to services in Spain. You can obtain it in two ways:

  1. From your country of origin: At the Spanish Consulate before travelling.
  2. In Madrid: By making an appointment at the Foreigners Office and presenting:
    • Original passport and copy.
    • Completed EX-15 form.
    • Proof of the reason for the application (remote working or renting a property).
    • Payment of the corresponding fee (form 790, code 012).

The NIE is key for any legal procedure in Madrid, so it is recommended that you apply for it in the first few days after your arrival.

5. How can I register as a self-employed person in Madrid if I am a digital nomad?

If you want to invoice services in Spain as a digital nomad, you can register as a self-employed worker with the Social Security and the Tax Office. Main steps:

  1. Obtain the NIE if you don’t have one.
  2. Register with the Tax Office using form 036 or 037.
  3. Register with the Social Security in the Special Scheme for Self-Employed Workers (RETA).
  4. Open a Spanish bank account if you need to set up direct debits.
  5. Take out private insurance if you don’t have access to the public health system.

Self-employed workers must pay a monthly Social Security contribution, which starts at €80 per month for new flat-rate registrants. In addition, they must file quarterly VAT and income tax returns.

If you don’t want to deal with this alone, it is advisable to have a manager or advisor to help you with the bureaucracy.

6. What are the best events for digital nomads in Madrid?

Madrid has a growing community of digital nomads. Some event options are:

  • Meetup: Talks and networking about freelancing and startups.
  • Internations: Meetings for expats.
  • Nomad List: Community of digital nomads with events in Madrid.
  • Events in coworking spaces such as ILCOWORKING and Impact Hub.

These communities are key for networking and finding job opportunities in Madrid.

7. What are the best apps for digital nomads in Madrid?

To make your life in Madrid easier, consider these essential apps:

  • Moovit or Citymapper: Public transport and optimised routes.
  • Badi or Idealista: Accommodation search.
  • Glovo and Uber Eats: Food delivery.
  • Verse or Revolut: Payments and transfers with no fees.
  • Duolingo or Babbel: Learn Spanish.

Madrid is a vibrant city for digital nomads. These tools can help you enjoy and work comfortably in the Spanish capital.

8. What are the best health insurance options for digital nomads in Madrid?

If you are a digital nomad in Madrid, it is important to have adequate health insurance. Some recommended options include:

  • Sanitas: Plans with coverage in private hospitals and 24/7 assistance.
  • Adeslas: Wide network of medical centres and specialised clinics.
  • Cigna Global: International insurance with coverage in multiple countries.
  • AXA: Flexible plans for expats and remote workers.

If you plan to stay in Spain for a long time, you can also opt for public social security if you register as self-employed. Madrid has excellent hospitals and health centres, both public and private.

10. How can digital nomads get around Madrid?

Madrid has an excellent public transport network. Main options:

  • Metro de Madrid: The fastest way to get around the city.
  • EMT buses: Extensive coverage, even at night.
  • Bicimad: Electric bicycle service.
  • Taxis and VTC (Uber, Cabify, Bolt): Alternatives for comfortable journeys.

The monthly transport pass costs around €55 and covers the metro, buses and suburban trains.

11. Where can you network in Madrid if you are a digital nomad?

If you want to meet other professionals and expand your network, some recommended events and places are:

  • Meetups of digital nomads on platforms such as Meetup.
  • Coworking events at ILCOWORKING, Impact Hub or Utopicus.
  • Technology and entrepreneurship fairs and conferences, such as South Summit Madrid.
  • Facebook and Telegram communities for expats and freelancers in Madrid.

12. What taxes do digital nomads have to pay in Madrid?

If you work in Madrid, it is important to know your tax obligations:

  • Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR): If you spend less than 183 days in Spain.
  • Personal Income Tax (IRPF): If you are a tax resident.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax): If you invoice from Spain.

If you have any doubts, it is advisable to consult a tax advisor.

13. What are the best cafés with WiFi for working in Madrid?

Some ideal cafés for digital nomads include:

14. Is Madrid a safe city for digital nomads?

Yes, Madrid is one of the safest cities in Europe. Some safety tips include:

  • Avoid distractions on the metro or in tourist spots, where there may be pickpockets.
  • Use transport apps at night instead of walking alone in unfamiliar areas.
  • Take only what you need with you when you go out, especially in crowded areas.

In general, Madrid is a very safe place to work and live.

15. What are the best areas to stay in Madrid as a digital nomad?

Some of the best areas to live in include:

  • Chamberí: Quiet, well connected and with many co-working spaces.
  • Malasaña: Youthful and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Chueca: Cosmopolitan and with an active nightlife.
  • Retiro neighbourhood: Ideal for those looking for tranquillity and green spaces.

16. How much does it cost to live in Madrid as a digital nomad?

Approximate costs include:

  • Accommodation: From €700 to €1,500/month.
  • Food: €250 – €400/month if you cook at home.
  • Transport: €55/month with a transport pass.
  • Coworking spaces: Between €100 and €300/month.

A budget of €1,500 – €2,500 per month is recommended for a comfortable lifestyle.

17. How can I get clients as a digital nomad in Madrid?

Some strategies include:

  • Networking in coworking spaces and at events.
  • Using platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr and Malt.
  • Collaborations with local companies.
  • Content creation on social networks.

18. What is the best time to live in Madrid as a digital nomad?

The best times are:

  • Spring (March-June): Ideal weather and lots of events.
  • Autumn (September-November): Pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.

Summer can be hot, but many places have air conditioning.

19. How can you learn Spanish quickly if you are a digital nomad in Madrid?

Options for learning Spanish include:

  • Classes at academies such as Tandem Madrid or Ail Madrid.
  • Apps such as Duolingo and Babbel.
  • Language exchanges in bars such as J&J Books and Coffee.

20. Where can you do sports in Madrid if you are a digital nomad?

Some options include:

  • Low-cost gyms like Basic-Fit or McFIT.
  • Exercise in the open air in Retiro Park.
  • Yoga and Pilates classes in specialised studios.
  • Sports clubs for running, crossfit and climbing.

21. What are the best cultural activities in Madrid for digital nomads?

Madrid is a city with a wide range of cultural activities on offer. Some recommended activities include:

  • Visit museums such as the Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza.
  • Explore Madrid de los Austrias, a neighbourhood with historic architecture.
  • Attend music and theatre events in venues such as the Teatro Real and the WiZink Center.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine in markets such as San Miguel or San Antón.
  • Take urban art tours through Lavapiés and Malasaña.

Madrid offers unique experiences to immerse yourself in Spanish culture while working remotely.

22. What are the best places for outdoor sports in Madrid?

If you like to keep active, Madrid has many outdoor options:

  • Parque del Retiro: Ideal for running, yoga and team sports.
  • Casa de Campo: Natural space for cycling and hiking.
  • Madrid Río: Perfect for skating and outdoor exercise.
  • Dehesa de la Villa: A lesser-known park but ideal for tranquillity and sport.

In addition, there are running and functional training groups that organise free sessions.

23. How do I manage invoicing as a digital nomad in Madrid?

If you work as a freelancer in Madrid, it is essential to organise your invoicing well:

  • Use platforms like Holded, FacturaDirecta or Quipu to generate digital invoices.
  • If you are self-employed, submit form 303 (VAT) and form 130 (income tax) every quarter.
  • Consider hiring an online manager like Declarando or Ayuda T Pymes to avoid tax problems.
  • If you invoice abroad, use tools like PayPal, Wise or Stripe to manage international payments.

Managing your income well will allow you to avoid penalties and optimise your tax burden.

24. How can I find communities of digital nomads in Madrid?

Connecting with other digital nomads can make your experience more enriching. Some ways to find communities include:

  • Joining Facebook groups like ‘Digital Nomads Madrid’.
  • Participating in coworking events in spaces like ILCOWORKING or Impact Hub.
  • Attend Internations meetings to meet expats.
  • Search Meetup for freelancer and entrepreneur meetups.
  • Use Slack or Discord in international communities like NomadList.

Building a network of contacts will help you grow professionally and meet like-minded people.

25. What advantages does Madrid have for digital nomads compared to other cities?

Madrid has several advantages over other European cities:

  • Cost of living more affordable than London or Paris.
  • Pleasant climate with mild winters and many sunny days.
  • Great connectivity with flights to Europe and Latin America.
  • High-speed internet in most areas.
  • Varied culture and leisure, from museums to vibrant nightlife.

If you are looking for a place with a balance between work and quality of life, Madrid is an excellent option.

26. What are the best coworking spaces with accommodation in Madrid?

If you are looking for a coliving experience with coworking, some options include:

This type of accommodation is ideal if you want a balance between privacy and community life.

27. What are the best technology and start-up events in Madrid?

If you work in the digital sector, some recommended events include:

  • South Summit: One of the biggest start-up events in Europe.
  • Madrid Tech Show: Event on the cloud, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
  • Hackathons and meetups organised on Google for Startups campuses.
  • OpenExpo Europe: Conference on innovation and open source.

These events are key for networking and finding out about the latest technological trends.

28. What are the best places to make video calls in Madrid?

If you need a quiet place for virtual meetings, try these places:

  • Private booths in coworking spaces like ILCOWORKING or Impact Hub.
  • Public libraries like the Eugenio Trías Library in El Retiro.
  • Meeting rooms at WeWork or Utopicus with a stable connection.
  • Cafés with reserved areas like The Shed Co.

Madrid offers many options for those who need a professional space for video calls.

29. How can I get discounts on transport and activities in Madrid?

To save money in Madrid, consider these options:

  • Monthly transport pass for €55 with unlimited access to metro, bus and suburban trains.
  • Madrid City Pass tourist card, with discounts on museums and attractions.
  • Offers on activities on websites such as Fever or Groupon.
  • Discounts for residents at theme parks and shows.

Madrid has multiple ways to enjoy the city at a lower cost.

30. How can I manage working hours with the time difference in Madrid?

If you work with international clients, it is key to manage time zones:

  • Use tools like World Time Buddy to coordinate meetings.
  • Adapt your working day with flexible hours in coworking spaces.
  • Take advantage of Spain’s time zone to close projects with America and Asia.
  • Plan your schedule with Google Calendar and synchronise with different time zones.

Madrid is an ideal city for hassle-free remote working.