Relocating to Spain: The Digital Nomad Visa for Global Professionals and Entrepreneurs 

For internationally mobile professionals seeking a Mediterranean base without sacrificing business connectivity, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa presents an elegant solution. 

With the Spanish Golden Visa program no longer available, this new route has become the most strategic pathway for non-EU citizens — including UK nationals — to enjoy long-term residence in Spain while maintaining global business interests. The visa offers a unique balance: the freedom to live and work remotely under the Iberian sun, combined with access to Spain’s sophisticated infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems. 

Officially known as the Visado para Teletrabajo de Carácter Internacional, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa was designed to attract high-calibre international talent and independent professionals. It grants non-EU citizens the right to live in Spain while continuing to work remotely for companies or clients abroad. 

The visa can initially be granted for one year and renewed for up to five, providing a potential route to permanent residency. Holders may also qualify for Spain’s special expat tax regime — often referred to as the “Beckham Law” — which allows a flat 24% income tax rate on earnings up to €600,000 annually for the first five years, subject to eligibility. 

Who qualifies? 

Eligible applicants typically include: 

• Non-EU/EEA nationals with an active employment or consulting contract permitting remote work from Spain. 

• Business owners or freelancers whose enterprise has been operational for at least 12 months. 

• Individuals with a university degree or a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience. 

Applicants must also demonstrate a stable income stream — approximately €31,152 per year for the primary applicant, €11,907 for a spouse or first dependent, and €3,969 for each additional family member. 

The process requires a curated portfolio of documentation, all duly translated into Spanish and, where applicable, legalised with an apostille. Depending on your location, applications are processed by the Spanish Consulates in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh. 

Essential documents include: 

• Completed national visa form and valid passport 

• Employment or freelance contracts confirming remote work status 

• Company incorporation or operational proof (minimum one year) 

• Proof of income (bank statements, payslips, or audited accounts) 

• Private health insurance providing comprehensive coverage in Spain 

• Clean criminal record certificates for the past five years 

• Degree certificate or evidence of professional experience 

• Certified Spanish translations and apostilles for all official documents 

Applicants relocating with family members must also provide authenticated marriage and birth certificates. 

Applying from within Spain 

For those already in Spain under a legal stay — such as on a tourist visa — it is possible to apply directly through the immigration authorities (UGE-CE). 

This route converts your status into a residence authorisation for international remote work, initially valid for three years and renewable for two more. The process is typically efficient, with decisions issued within 20 working days. In the absence of a response, approval is deemed granted by administrative silence — a distinct advantage under Spanish immigration law. 

Upon approval, applicants must register their fingerprints and collect a TIE card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) — the formal Spanish residence credential. 

Why HNWIs are turning to the Digital Nomad Visa 

Beyond the practicalities, the Digital Nomad Visa represents a strategic relocation opportunity. Spain offers world-class international schools, Michelin-starred dining, exceptional property options, and access to the EU’s Schengen zone — all while maintaining a relatively favourable tax regime for expatriates. 

Whether viewed as a lifestyle investment, a tax-efficient residency strategy, or a pathway to European permanence, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa enables discerning professionals and entrepreneurs to integrate into one of Europe’s most desirable destinations — with flexibility, security, and prestige. 

Find out more about gunnercooke’s specialist Spanish Desk here or contact Antonio here.

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