So, you love Spain and want to make it your main place of residence? That’s fantastic! If you’re an EU citizen (or married to one), you can take advantage of freedom of movement and reside and work in Spain without restrictions. However, for non-EU citizens, the process is a bit more complex. You’ll need to apply for a residency permit—and the right one depends largely on your individual circumstances.
Are you planning to work remotely while enjoying life under the Spanish sun? Looking to spend your retirement years here? Or maybe you want to test the waters before deciding on a more permanent move? While getting a traditional work permit as a non-EU citizen can be quite difficult due to strict requirements and bureaucracy, there are several more accessible routes to legal residency. Let’s focus on the most relevant and realistic options.
1. Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) – Live and Work Remotely from Spain
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most exciting new residency options available to remote workers and freelancers. It allows non-EU citizens to legally live in Spain while working remotely for non-Spanish companies or clients. This visa was specifically created to attract international talent who want to combine a stable income with a Mediterranean lifestyle.
Key benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa include:
• Permission to reside in Spain while working remotely
• Legal work authorization tied to non-Spanish employment or freelance clients
• Initial residence granted for up to 2-3 years, renewable afterwards
• Eligibility for the Beckham tax regime (offering reduced tax rates under certain conditions) for employed applicants
• Application can be submitted from within Spain during a regular tourist stay (no need to return to your home country)
To qualify, you’ll need to show proof of consistent remote income, a legitimate contract or client base outside Spain, and meet minimum income thresholds.
This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, remote employees, tech professionals, and digital freelancers who want the freedom to live in Spain legally without navigating the traditional work permit route. Read more about the requirements and application procedure here
2. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) – For Those Who Can Afford to Live Without Working
The Non-Lucrative Visa remains one of the most popular and accessible Spanish residency permits for those who don’t plan to work while living in Spain. It’s perfect for retirees, individuals with passive income, or anyone with enough savings to support themselves without needing to work.
What makes the NLV attractive:
• Simpler process than work permits
• No need to engage in employment or business activities, but with freedom to invest and receive passive income
• Allows you to reside in Spain legally initially for 1 year, with further renewals
However, this visa must be initially applied for from your home country at the Spanish Consulate - read more about this residency visa, its process and requirements here. While some people use the NLV as a “starter residency” with hopes of switching to a work permit later, such a switch is not automatic and can be challenging. Planning ahead—and having a backup plan—is key.
3. Student Visa – A Short-Term Gateway
The Student Visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain while pursuing full-time studies at an officially recognized institution. It’s a suitable option for younger individuals looking to study and explore Spain, with a possibility (though limited) to work part-time.
Student visas are limited in duration and directly tied to your academic program, they are also generally not counted (or only partially) towards the requirements of the permanent residency. While this is not a long-term solution, it can sometimes lead to other residency paths later on.
Other Residency Options
There are a few additional residency permits available—such as those for family reunification, humanitarian reasons, or special entrepreneurial projects—but these are highly specific and apply to fewer cases.
Need Help Deciding Which Visa Is Right for You?
Each situation is unique. Whether you’re a remote worker, a retiree, or someone simply seeking a lifestyle change, choosing the right visa route is essential.
At Malaga Expat Consulting, we’re here to guide you through the process. We’ll assess your circumstances and help you take the best steps toward securing your Spanish residency.