🌍 Why Spain Is a Top Destination for Digital Nomads
With its sunny climate, affordable lifestyle, and excellent internet, Spain has become one of the most attractive countries for remote workers worldwide. Thanks to the Startup Law, you can now legally live and work in Spain under the new Digital Nomad Visa — whether you’re a remote employee, a freelancer, or a founder with clients abroad.
Spain’s top cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Malaga are now digital nomad hubs.
🛂 What Is the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain?
The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is a residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain while working remotely for a foreign employer or their own international clients. It’s valid for up to 3 years, renewable, and can lead to permanent residency.
✅ You can apply from your home country or directly from Spain.
📋 Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain, you must:
🖥️ Work remotely for a non-Spanish company or client
💶 Earn at least 200% of Spain’s minimum wage (approx. €2,400/month)
🎓 Have 3 years of experience or a relevant university degree
🛡️ Hold private health insurance
🧾 Submit no criminal record (last 5 years)
🏢 Your company or clients must be operating for at least 1 year
👨👩👧 You can bring your spouse and children under family reunification.
🗂️ Required Documents (Typical List)
| 📄 Document | ✍️ Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport copy | Must be valid for 1+ year |
| Proof of remote work | Work contract or freelance agreement |
| Proof of income | Bank statements or payroll |
| Experience or education | Degree or resume with 3+ years |
| Criminal background check | Apostilled |
| Private health insurance | Full coverage in Spain |
| Address in Spain (if applying from within) | Rental agreement or host letter |
📍 Can You Apply from Within Spain?
Yes! If you’re already in Spain as a tourist, you can switch to the Digital Nomad Visa from inside the country. This is often faster and avoids embassy delays.
💶 Taxes for Digital Nomads in Spain
Good news: you may qualify for the Beckham Law Regime, which taxes foreign-earned income at just 24% flat (up to €600,000/year). No need to declare worldwide income outside Spain.
🧮 Ask Borderless Lawyers to help register you for this regime during your visa process.
🏙️ Best Cities in Spain for Digital Nomads
| 🌆 City | 💡 Why Choose It |
|---|---|
| Barcelona | Beach + coworking + international vibe |
| Madrid | Business hub, fast Wi-Fi, cultural scene |
| Valencia | Affordable, sunny, startup-friendly |
| Malaga | Coastal, relaxed, growing expat scene |
| Granada / Seville | Budget-friendly with authentic culture |
| Canary Islands | Year-round sun and remote-worker tax perks |
Read our full guides by city ➜
🏡 Cost of Living in Spain for Remote Workers
| 💰 Expense | 🇪🇸 Avg Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed city centre) | €750–€1,200 |
| Coworking space | €150–€250 |
| Groceries | €200–€300 |
| Internet | €30–€50 |
| Health Insurance | €50–€90 |
Spain is 30–50% cheaper than many Western European countries for remote workers.
📆 How Long Is the Visa Valid?
-
Initial visa: up to 3 years
-
Renewable: for another 2 years
-
After 5 years → apply for permanent residency
You can also apply for citizenship after 10 years (or less if from Latin America).
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Applying without a real contract (e.g. short-term gigs)
🚫 Submitting incomplete or unapostilled documents
🚫 Not proving company or client is 1+ year old
🚫 Trying to work for Spanish clients directly
⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We offer full legal support to make your digital nomad move to Spain seamless:
✅ Pre-check your eligibility
✅ Compile and review all documentation
✅ Submit the application (in Spain or abroad)
✅ Assist with NIE registration
✅ Handle tax setup (Beckham Law, etc.)
✅ Family member visas
✅ Apartment address setup if needed
📣 Ready to Move to Spain as a Digital Nomad?
At Borderless Lawyers, we help remote professionals relocate to Spain with ease. From visa application to tax setup, we’ve got you covered.
👉 Get a free assessment today and start your new life in Spain.