Spain Digital Nomad Visa (Startups Law)
Spain's nomad visa lets you live in Spain while working for foreign clients — with a special tax regime for the first 6 years.
Who this guide is for
- Remote workers and freelancers who want to live in Spain
- Entrepreneurs and founders operating non-Spanish businesses
- Non-EU nationals considering a European base with a Mediterranean lifestyle
The practical problem
Spain's Digital Nomad Visa was introduced under the Startup Act and is available to non-EU nationals with verifiable remote work income from non-Spanish sources. The application process involves Spanish consulates with varying requirements and has a special tax regime (Beckham Law) that may significantly reduce tax for high earners in the first 6 years.
Your options
Spain Digital Nomad Visa (1-year initial, renewable to 5 years)
For remote workers earning predominantly from non-Spanish clients/employers. Income requirement: approximately 200% of Spanish minimum wage (~€2,646/month in 2024). Eligible for Beckham Law special tax regime.
Documents typically needed
- Passport (valid 1+ year)
- Proof of employment or freelance activity
- Bank statements showing minimum income (last 3–6 months)
- Criminal background check (apostilled)
- Health insurance valid in Spain
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
- Completed visa application form
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying without accommodation proof
- Not having the criminal background check apostilled
- Confusing the freelancer visa with the nomad visa (different requirements)
How Nomadic Go helps
Nomadic Go assists with Spain Digital Nomad Visa applications including document preparation, consulate submission, and NIE (Spanish tax ID) coordination.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Beckham Law for Spain?
The Beckham Law (Ley Beckham) is a special tax regime for new Spanish residents, capping income tax at 24% on income up to EUR 600,000. It is available to nomad visa holders who have not been Spanish tax residents in the previous 5 years. Consult a Spanish tax advisor. Nomadic Go does not provide tax advice.
How long does the Spain Digital Nomad Visa application take?
Spanish consulate processing times vary by country of application: typically 4-12 weeks. After arrival, the NIE and residency card processes add additional time. Allow 3-6 months from application to full Spanish residency.
Can I include my family in a Spain Digital Nomad Visa application?
Family members (spouse and children) can join through family reunification. Dependants apply separately. Your income evidence must show you can support the household financially.
What is the minimum income requirement for Spain Digital Nomad Visa in 2024?
Approximately 200% of Spain's minimum wage per month: roughly EUR 2,646/month in 2024. Dependants add additional requirements. These figures adjust annually with minimum wage changes.
Do I need a Spanish company or employment contract to apply?
No Spanish company is required. You need evidence of employment or freelance contracts with non-Spanish companies or clients. At least 80% of your income should come from non-Spanish sources for the first year.
Can Russian or Belarusian nationals apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
As of mid-2026, Spain has not formally suspended Digital Nomad Visa processing for Russian or Belarusian passport holders, but applications are subject to enhanced scrutiny and extended processing times. Applicants from these nationalities must provide thorough documentation — clean criminal record (apostilled), stable lawful income, proof of lawful residence outside Russia/Belarus, and valid health insurance. Outcomes are less predictable than for other nationalities and consulate policies may change based on EU Common Foreign and Security Policy developments — subject to change. Contact our support team for the latest status before purchasing.