2025 Nomad visa in Spain
What Is the Nomad Visa in Spain?
Spain’s Nomad Visa is a residence permit designed for digital professionals who earn their income remotely. It allows you to live in Spain legally while working for foreign clients or companies, enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle without the need for a Spanish employment contract.
Who Qualifies for the Nomad Visa?.
Eligible Nationalities
The visa is open to non-EU citizens , including Latin American professionals who often enjoy streamlined processes thanks to bilateral agreements.
Remote Work Requirements
Applicants must show stable income from abroad, such as:
- An employment contract with a foreign company (minimum 6 months’ relationship).
- Freelance contracts with international clients.
- Ownership of a digital business generating recurring revenue.
John has been working remotely for a U.S.-based software company for three years. Tired of Buenos Aires’ fast pace, he decides to relocate to
Benefits of the Spanish Nomad Visa
Residency Rights and Duration.
The visa grants an initial 1-year residence permit , renewable up to 3 years, with the possibility of applying for long-term EU residency after 5 years.
Tax Advantages.
Remote workers can apply for Spain’s Impatriate Regime (Beckham Law), paying a flat 24% tax rate on Spanish-sourced income, with foreign income often exempt.
For John Doe, this means he can keep paying a reduced, predictable tax rate while enjoying Spain’s public services.
How to Apply for the Nomad Visa
Document Checklist.
- Valid passport.
- Employment contract or freelance agreements.
- Proof of income (generally €27,000+ annually).
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated).
- Proof of accommodation in Spain.
Step-by-Step Application Process.
- Collect and legalize documents (translations, apostilles).
- Submit application at a Spanish consulate (or directly in Spain if eligible).
- Wait for approval (6–12 weeks).
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled and translated).
- Upon arrival, apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) at the local police station.
Costs and Fees
- Visa fee: approx. €80–€100.
- TIE card: ~€10.
- Translations/apostilles: €50–€150 per document.
- Private health insurance: ~€40–€70/month.
For John Doe, the total cost of paperwork and insurance was about €600, excluding legal assistance.
Common Pitfalls and FAQs
Processing Times
Expect 2–3 months on average, though delays can occur with incomplete paperwork.
Audits and Inspections.
Spain’s tax authority (Agencia Tributaria) can audit businesses — especially e-commerce sellers with cross-border transactions, where errors are common.
Renewal and Family Reunification.
Spouses and children can be added to the application if the applicant proves sufficient income.
John Doe’s partner joined him in Tenerife under family reunification, thanks to his stable salary.
Tips from Strong Abogados
We recommend:
- Preparing documents early and ensuring all translations are official.
- Keeping financial proof (bank statements, contracts) ready.
- Consulting a lawyer for tax strategy (especially if you plan to apply for Beckham Law).
FAQs
- Can I work for Spanish clients with a Nomad Visa?
No — the visa is designed for work with foreign clients or companies. - What is the minimum income requirement?
Around €2,300–€2,700/month, depending on family size. - Can I switch to another visa later?
Yes, you may transition to other residence permits if your circumstances change. - Is Tenerife a good destination for digital nomads?
Absolutely — affordable living, year-round sunshine, coworking spaces, and strong expat communities make it one of Spain’s top spots.
Conclusion
The Nomad Visa in Spain is a golden opportunity for professionals like John Doe — a programmer from Argentina who traded Buenos Aires for Tenerife. With its tax perks, residency rights, and lifestyle benefits, it’s the perfect visa for anyone seeking freedom, stability, and the European way of life.
Strong Abogados can guide you step-by-step through the application, ensuring your relocation to Spain is smooth and stress-free.
Author Note
Pura Strong is Spain’s leading expert in anti-money laundering (AML), a certified SEPBLAC specialist, and President of the Anti-Crime Certification Institution. She is an author, media commentator, and fearless advocate known for denouncing corruption — and surviving it.
