Deborah Cater
Spain continues to attract remote workers from across the globe with its Digital Nomad Visa. However, strict documentation requirements make the process complex, especially for self-employed applicants.
The visa, which launched in 2023, allows non-EU nationals to live and work remotely from Spain for up to three years. It has quickly become one of the most sought-after schemes of its kind in Europe.
According to independent estimates, Spain may now host over 125,000 digital nomads, making it the top destination in Europe for remote professionals. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not published full figures for 2024, analysts note that American and British nationals make up a large share of applicants. Figures from Nomad List show that 46% of digital nomads globally are from the United States, while 7% are from the UK.
But as the popularity of the visa grows, so too does the scrutiny.
Maria Muñoz Gomez from Help at Hand Spain, a consultancy assisting remote workers with visa applications, said: “I have dealt mainly with British and American clients that have applied for the Digital Nomad Visa. The UGE-CE – the government office dealing with this visa – has tightened their requirements. So, it’s not as easy for everyone, for sure.”
Tougher rules for self-employed applicants
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires entrepreneurs and freelancers to meet strict conditions. Self-employed applicants must show:
- Full ownership of their business
- Contracts with international clients, ensuring that no more than 20% of income comes from Spanish companies
- Evidence of a stable income, such as tax returns and bank statements
- Income which is at least double the minimum wage in Spain
Applicants must also meet educational or professional criteria. These include:
- Holding an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a recognised institution, or
- Having at least three years of relevant professional experience
“These rules are in place to ensure that digital nomads have the necessary qualifications or experience to sustain their remote work,” Maria added.
However, it is proving exceedingly difficult for UK citizens to be awarded the Digital Nomad Visa unless they are employees. Citizens of other third nation countries, such as the USA and Australia are also finding it hard to satisfy the Spanish authorities as to proof of income through their home countries’ Social Security certificate.
Visa benefits remain
Despite the tougher checks, the visa continues to appeal thanks to its pathway to residency. The initial visa is valid for up to three years, with the option to renew for a further two. After five years, holders can apply for permanent residency.
Jen Cameron, a Chartered Accountant employed in the UK, has a Digital Nomad Visa. She says, “It is a great way of remaining in Spain beyond the 90-day period for third nationals who work remotely. As an employee of a UK company, I’m not negatively impacting Spanish jobs. However, it is complex and expensive to achieve the visa.”