How to Apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (Step-by-Step Process)

🛂 Want to Work Remotely from Spain? Here’s How to Apply.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is one of Europe’s most attractive immigration options for remote workers. But the application process can be confusing — especially with deadlines, apostilles, and translations involved.

This guide walks you through the full application process, whether you’re applying from abroad or already in Spain as a tourist.

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🔁 Two Ways to Apply

✅ Both options are valid and lead to the same 3-year residence permit.

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📍 Step-by-Step: Apply from Abroad

This is the traditional route, done through the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

• Valid passport

• Remote work contract or freelance agreements

• Proof of income (min. €2,400/month)

• Degree or proof of 3 years’ experience

• Apostilled criminal background check

• Private health insurance

• Proof your employer/client is over 1 year old

• Application form + consulate fee

📑 All documents must be translated into Spanish and some apostilled.

Step 2: Make an Appointment with Your Consulate

• Search the official consulate website for your country

• Book the “Digital Nomad Visa” or “Startup Law Visa” option

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Hand in all documents

• Pay consular fee (usually €80–€150)

• Some consulates may conduct a short interview

Step 4: Wait for Approval

• Processing time: up to 30 working days

• If approved: collect visa → travel to Spain → register residence

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🇪🇸 Step-by-Step: Apply from Within Spain

If you’re already in Spain as a tourist (e.g. from the US, Canada, Australia), you can apply without leaving.

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Same as above — but now you need to include:

• Proof of legal entry into Spain (e.g. passport stamp)

• Empadronamiento (local registration — optional but helpful)

Step 2: Submit Online via the Spain Immigration Portal

• Create a digital certificate (certificado digital)

• Submit via “Mercurio” platform (administrative residence permits section)

Step 3: Receive Approval or Request for More Info

• Typical processing: 20 working days

• If approved: receive residence permit valid for 3 years

• If denied or incomplete: you’ll be given 10 days to fix it

Step 4: Get Your TIE (Foreign Resident ID Card)

Once approved:

• Apply for your TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)

• Fingerprinting appointment

• Receive your residence card in 30 days

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⏱️ How Long Does the Process Take?

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💸 Application Fees

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🧠 Tips to Improve Your Approval Chances

✅ Use consistent income documentation (e.g. same bank account, same employer)
✅ Translate all documents into official Spanish (by sworn translator)
✅ Use apostilles for background checks and diplomas
✅ Apply early — don’t wait until your tourist stay is about to expire
✅ Use a lawyer to avoid delays or denials

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❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Submitting freelance gigs without proof of income
🚫 Missing apostilles or certified translations
🚫 Employer without 1-year operating history
🚫 Forgetting to apply for a digital certificate when applying from Spain
🚫 Booking the wrong appointment at consulates (tourist or student instead of nomad)

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⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help

We offer full legal assistance for both in-country and consular applications, including:

✅ Pre-check of eligibility
✅ Preparing and reviewing documents
✅ Legal translations & apostilles
✅ Submitting your application online or via consulate
✅ Tax & Beckham Law setup
✅ TIE card assistance + NIE registration

📦 All handled from one place — no legal Spanish needed from your side.

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📣 Ready to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa?

With the right preparation and legal support, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa opens the door to a long-term European lifestyle — beach, city, or island.

👉 Contact Borderless Lawyers today to start your application and avoid costly delays.