Live and work remotely from Spain with the Digital Nomad Visa. If you’re a freelancer, remote employee, or business owner dreaming of living in Madrid or anywhere else in Spain while keeping your international job, this guide is for you.

In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa — from eligibility and documentation to how you can settle into Madrid’s thriving coworking scene.

🌍 What is the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain?

The Digital Nomad Visa Spain is a special residency permit that allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live and work remotely from Spain while being employed by a foreign company or running their own business abroad. Introduced in early 2023 as part of Spain’s Startup Law, the visa is designed to attract international talent and remote workers.

Whether you’re working for a U.S. tech company, freelancing for clients across the globe, or running a startup, the Digital Nomad Visa offers legal residency in one of Europe’s most attractive destinations.

🧾 Requirements for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

To be eligible, you must meet several key requirements:

1. Employment or Self-Employment Status

  • Employees: Must prove a minimum 3-month contract with a foreign company that allows remote work.

  • Freelancers: Must demonstrate ongoing business relationships with at least one non-Spanish client.

2. Company Activity

  • The company must have been operational for at least one year.

  • Your work must be 100% remote and carried out using digital tools.

3. Financial Requirements

  • You must earn at least 200% of Spain’s Minimum Wage (SMI): approx. €31,752/year in 2024.

  • Additional funds are needed if you bring family members:
    +75% SMI for the first dependent, +25% for each additional one.

4. Clean Criminal Record

  • You need a background check covering the last 2 years, apostilled or legalized.

5. Health Insurance

  • Private or public insurance covering the full duration of your stay with benefits comparable to Spain’s public healthcare system.

6. Qualifications

  • A university degree or 3+ years of relevant work experience is required.

  • If your profession is regulated in Spain, your qualifications must be officially recognized.

📝 How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa Spain

The application process can be done from abroad (at a consulate) or in Spain (on a tourist visa):

Step-by-Step:

  1. Prepare Documents: Passport, job contract, income proof, criminal record certificate, insurance, etc.

  2. Apply at the Spanish consulate or online via Spain’s immigration portal.

  3. Wait for Approval: Usually takes between 1 and 3 months.

  4. Receive Visa: Valid for up to 1 year, extendable to a 3-year residence permit.

⏱️ How Long Can I Stay in Spain?

  • The initial visa is valid for 12 months.

  • After that, you can apply for a residence permit for international teleworkers, valid for up to 3 years and renewable in 2-year periods.

You can stay outside Spain for up to 6 continuous months per year without affecting your residency status.

📊 Taxes with the Digital Nomad Visa

If you live in Spain for over 183 days/year, you’re considered a tax resident.

Two scenarios:

  1. Regular Tax Regime:

    • Pay taxes on worldwide income (IRPF rates: 19%–47%).

  2. Special Regime (Beckham Law):

    • Flat 24% rate up to €600,000 for 6 years.

    • Only taxed on Spanish income.

Freelancers must also register for VAT and social security, unless covered by a bilateral agreement.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Can I Bring My Family?

Yes! The digital nomad visa allows for family reunification:

  • Spouse or registered partner.

  • Children under 18 or dependent adults.

  • Additional income must be proven to cover family living costs.

Why Choose Spain (and Madrid) for Remote Work?

Spain offers a unique lifestyle for digital nomads:

  • Affordable cost of living compared to other EU countries.

  • Excellent climate, culture, and quality of life.

  • Access to the Schengen Area.

  • Thriving expat communities and coworking spaces.

Madrid, in particular, is ideal thanks to its:

  • Fast internet and digital infrastructure.

  • Vibrant startup scene.

  • International airport connections.

  • Bilingual services and diverse communities.

Looking for a professional coworking space in the heart of Madrid? ILCOWORKING offers flexible desks, private offices, and meeting rooms perfect for digital nomads starting their journey in Spain.

🏢 ILCOWORKING: Your Office in Madrid

Settling in Madrid? Avoid the isolation of working from your Airbnb or noisy cafés.

At ILCOWORKING, you’ll enjoy:

  • 24/7 access to fully equipped spaces.

  • A central location just steps from Gran Vía.

  • Networking with other professionals and entrepreneurs.

  • Legal and administrative support through trusted partners.

Book your desk now and join a growing international community of remote professionals in Madrid.

💬 FAQs About Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

Can any nationality apply?
Yes, as long as you’re from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland and meet the requirements.

Can I switch to another type of residence later?
Yes, after your digital nomad visa expires, you can apply for long-term residence or other types of permits.

What happens if my application is rejected?
You can appeal the decision or reapply. Working with an immigration lawyer increases your chances of success.

Can I work for Spanish clients?
Only if you’re a freelancer, and it must be no more than 20% of your total activity.

✈️ Ready to Work Remotely from Madrid?

The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is a game-changer for remote workers. With professional legal support, affordable living, and dynamic coworking options like ILCOWORKING, your dream of living in Spain is more accessible than ever.