Spain's Digital Nomad Visa
The legal way for remote workers and freelancers to live and work from Spain. Our team has helped hundreds of digital nomads secure their DNV with a 98% approval rate.
What is the Digital Nomad Visa?
Spain's Digital Nomad Visa (officially the "Authorization for International Remote Work Activity") was introduced in January 2023 under the Startup Law (Ley 28/2022). It allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain while working remotely for companies or clients based outside Spain.
Unlike tourist visas or short stays, the DNV grants you full legal residency status, access to the Spanish healthcare system (after registering your TIE), and the ability to open Spanish bank accounts and sign rental contracts.
Two Ways to Apply
Spain offers two distinct routes for the Digital Nomad Visa. The right one depends on where you are when you apply — and they have different income thresholds.
Apply from outside Spain at your nearest Spanish consulate
- ✓Apply from the comfort of home
- ✓Lower income threshold
- ✗Longer processing time
- ✗Quality varies by consulate
Apply directly in Spain through the UGE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas)
- ✓Much faster processing
- ✓Consistent, centralised office
- ✓Live in Spain during process
- ✗Higher income threshold
Recommended if you can.If your nationality allows visa-free entry to Spain, or you're willing to get a Schengen tourist visa first — the UGE route is strongly advisable. Faster, more consistent, and you start your Spanish life immediately.
Not sure which route fits you?We help clients with both. Book a free consultation and we'll map out the right strategy based on where you are and your income situation.
Eligibility Requirements
- Non-EU/EEA nationality
- Work remotely for a non-Spanish employer or clients
- Minimum 1 year of employment/freelance history
- Monthly income of at least €2,646 (200% of Spain's minimum wage)
- Valid private health insurance covering Spain
- Clean criminal record (apostilled)
- No prior Spanish visa violations
Required Documents
Valid passport (6+ months remaining)
Copy of all pages
Completed national visa application form
Form EX-01
Recent passport-sized photos
2 photos, white background
Criminal record certificate
Apostilled & translated
Proof of remote work
Employment contract or client contracts
Income documentation
3+ months bank statements + payslips or invoices
Private health insurance policy
Valid in Spain, no co-payment clause
Proof of address in Spain (or intent)
Rental agreement or letter of intent
Company registration documents
If self-employed/freelancer
All foreign documents must be officially translated into Spanish by a sworn translator and apostilled under the Hague Convention. We handle all of this for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for Spanish companies on the DNV?
Yes, up to 20% of your total income can come from Spanish clients or companies. Beyond that, you'd need a different authorization.
How long does the process take?
Typically 6–10 weeks from submitting a complete application. Incomplete applications significantly extend this timeline.
Can I include my family?
Yes. Your spouse, registered partner, and dependent children can apply as family unit members alongside your main application.
Do I pay taxes in Spain on the DNV?
If you spend 183+ days in Spain in a calendar year, you become a Spanish tax resident. However, you may qualify for the Beckham Law (flat 24% tax rate on Spanish income) for the first 5 years.
Quick Facts
Ready to apply?
Book a free 45-minute consultation. We'll review your situation and give you a clear action plan.
Book Free ConsultationCheck EligibilityFull end-to-end service. Government fees extra.
Government fees extra. €500 per additional dependent regardless of package.
Standard Package
For the independent nomad beginning their journey with foundational support.
- List of required documents for the visa
- Personalized application review
- Assistance in scheduling visa and NIE appointments
- Submission of application if applying in Spain
- Unlimited email support
Standard Plus Package
For nomads who want to save on translation costs.
- Everything in the Standard Package
- Translations of all your documents into Spanish (by a sworn and accredited translator)
- Assistance in scheduling TIE appointments
Additional Services
Appointments
Assistance for NIE, TIE, and Regreso appointments and forms.
Apostilles
Get your documents from the US, Canada, and Australia apostilled.
Translations
Get your documents translated by a sworn Spanish translator.