💻 Work Remotely in Spain? Choose the Right Visa
Spain now offers two residence options for non-EU citizens working independently:
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The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) – new, remote-focused, tax-advantaged
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The Self-Employed Visa (Cuenta Propia) – traditional freelance route
So, which is better for your situation?
This guide breaks down the differences, pros, cons, and ideal use cases for each visa type.
📋 Quick Overview
| Feature | Digital Nomad Visa | Self-Employed Visa |
|---|---|---|
| 🔄 Name in Spanish | Visado para teletrabajo de carácter internacional | Residencia temporal por cuenta propia |
| 👩💻 Work Type | Remote work for non-Spanish companies | Freelance or business activity in Spain |
| 🕒 Processing Time | 20–30 days | 1–3 months |
| 💰 Income Required | ~€2,500/month | ~€9,500/year + business viability |
| 💼 Business Plan Needed | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| 🏥 Insurance | Private coverage (or public once in Spain) | Private coverage (until public) |
| 👨👩👧 Family Included | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| 🧾 Tax Regime | Beckham Law (optional) | Autónomo taxes (full Spanish tax) |
🎯 Who Should Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa?
✅ Ideal for:
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Remote employees of foreign companies
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Contractors with clients outside Spain
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Tech workers, developers, creatives working globally
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Individuals wanting lower taxes under the Beckham Law
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People seeking fast-track approval and no business plan burden
Key requirements:
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Income from non-Spanish sources (max 20% Spanish clients)
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Minimum €2,500/month or equivalent annual income
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Company incorporation or work contract older than 3 months
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Clean criminal record, valid health insurance
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Proof of qualifications or experience
🛂 Apply from Spain or abroad via UGE-CE.
🧑💼 Who Should Apply for the Self-Employed Visa?
✅ Ideal for:
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Freelancers with Spanish clients
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People offering local services in Spain (therapists, tutors, consultants)
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Entrepreneurs launching small businesses
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Digital workers with a mix of clients (Spain + abroad)
Key requirements:
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Detailed business plan
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Proof of income or client contracts
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Relevant professional qualifications
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Projected expenses and earnings
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Apply via Spanish consulate (before arriving)
📌 Slower than DNV, but more flexible for business activities in Spain.
💸 Tax Differences – DNV vs Autónomo
| Item | Digital Nomad Visa | Self-Employed Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Income tax | 24% flat on income up to €600K (Beckham Law) | IRPF scale: 19–47% |
| VAT (IVA) | Not applicable if invoicing from abroad | Must charge & submit VAT in Spain |
| Social security | ~€300/month (after 60-day exemption) | ~€80–300/month as autónomo |
| Tax filing | Personal income (no company) | Full autónomo returns quarterly + yearly |
🧠 The DNV is simpler, but autónomo gives full Spanish business access.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying for DNV while already working for Spanish clients
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Using the self-employed route when your activity is 100% remote for foreign clients (risk of rejection)
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Assuming you don’t need to register for tax/social security in either route
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Submitting business plans that aren’t viable or realistic (self-employed)
➡️ See Article 10 for common rejection reasons and how to avoid them.
🧠 Summary – Which Should You Choose?
| Your Situation | Best Option |
|---|---|
| You work for a foreign employer | Digital Nomad Visa |
| You invoice non-Spanish clients remotely | Digital Nomad Visa |
| You work for Spanish clients or locally | Self-Employed Visa |
| You want to open a physical business | Self-Employed Visa |
| You want quick approval and flat tax | Digital Nomad Visa |
| You don’t meet DNV income requirements | Self-Employed Visa |
👨⚖️ Borderless Lawyers Makes It Easy
We:
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Help you choose the best visa type based on your clients and income
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Draft business plans for autónomo applications
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Submit fast-track DNV files to UGE-CE
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Handle Beckham Law registration for digital nomads
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Offer ongoing legal + tax support for your freelance or remote activity
📞 Start Your Application Today
📅 Book a consultation to get started with the right Spanish visa for your work style and goals.