Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa: Live in Spain While Working Remotely
Since the launch of Spain’s Startups Law (Ley de Startups) on December 22, 2022, the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) has become one of the most popular residency options for non-EU citizens looking to live in Spain while continuing to work remotely for companies abroad.
This visa is part of Spain’s effort to attract international talent, boost innovation, and offer a modern lifestyle to remote professionals — and it’s especially appealing to freelancers, remote employees, and families seeking flexibility, sunshine, and stability in Spain.
Let’s look at what this visa offers and how you can qualify.
Who is the Digital Nomad Visa for?
The DNV is designed specifically for non-EU citizens who wish to live in Spain while working remotely for companies based outside of Spain.
You can qualify if you are:
• Employed by a non-Spanish company and working remotely
• Self-employed/freelancer with international clients (up to 20% of your total income can come from Spanish clients)
In both cases, the work must be performed remotely and supported by valid contracts or agreements, and relevant authorisations
Main Requirements
To apply for the DNV, you must meet the following key criteria:
Professional Background
• A university degree related to your current job/occupation; or a minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience
Remote Work Setup
• Proof that your job or freelance activity can be carried out remotely
• Proof of ongoing work relationships for at least 3 months before applying
• The company or client must be established for at least 1 year
Minimum Income Requirements
Your income must meet a minimum threshold based on the Spanish Minimum Salary (SMI). For 2025, these are:
• Applicant only – €2,763/month (€33,156 annually)
• Applicant + 1 dependant – €3,799/month (€45,588 annually)
• Applicant + 2 dependants – €4,145/month (€49,740 annually)
• Applicant + 3 dependants – €4,491/month (€53,892 annually)
• Each additional dependant – +€346/month (€4,152 annually)
Social Security Coverage
You must show you are covered by Social Security, either:
• Through your employer (if there's a reciprocal Social Security agreement with Spain)
• Via registration with Spanish Social Security (freelancers/self-employed)
Other Requirements
• No criminal record in the last 5 years
• Full private health insurance (unless covered by Social Security).
Application Process & Duration
You have two ways to apply:
1. From your home country through the Spanish Consulate
- You’ll receive a 1-year Digital Nomad Visa, renewable from Spain
2. From within Spain (if already in Spain legally as a tourist, for example)
- You can apply directly for Digital Nomad Residency, valid for up to 2-3 years, renewable based on your ongoing contracts and social security coverage
After 5 years of legal stay, you can apply for permanent residency in Spain (subject to meeting the requirements) — a major advantage for those looking to settle long-term.
Family Members Can Join Too!
Spouses and dependants can apply alongside the main applicant and obtain the right to work in Spain, making the DNV a flexible solution for families looking to relocate together.
Need Help With the Digital Nomad Visa?
If you think you may qualify for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa or want to understand your eligibility better — we’re here to help.
At Malaga Expat Consulting, we guide our clients through the entire application process, from document preparation to applying from Spain.
Let us help you make Spain your new home — while you continue doing what you love, remotely.
Get in touch today to schedule your consultation!