If you work in the field of information technology and are looking to experience life in Spain, the Spain Digital Nomad Visa offers a great opportunity for you.
This visa allows IT freelancers and remote professionals to legally reside in Spain and enjoy the benefits of living in this country.
Below, we provide a comprehensive guide on the conditions, required documents, and the application process for this visa.
Spain Digital Nomad Visa: A Complete Guide for IT Freelancers
Main Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Non-European Nationality: The applicant must be from a country outside the European Union.
- Work Experience: At least 3 months of remote work experience with a company or foreign client.
- Monthly Income: Minimum income of €2,763 per month for the main applicant. Additional amounts are required for each family member.
- Degree or Work Experience: Possess a valid university degree or at least 3 years of relevant work experience in the IT field.
- Health Insurance: Valid health insurance covering the entire duration of stay in Spain.
- Clean Criminal Record: Certificate of no criminal record from the country of residence for the past 5 years.
- Residency in Spain: To renew the visa, you must reside in Spain for at least 6 months out of every 12 months.
Required Documents for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa
Submitting the following documents is mandatory for your visa application:
- Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the official visa application form for each applicant.
- Passport Photos: Two recent color passport photos with a light background.
- Valid Passport: Passport valid for at least one year with two blank pages.
- Criminal Record Certificate: Issued by the country of residence in the last 5 years, valid for up to 6 months.
- Private Health Insurance: Coverage for the entire stay in Spain from a reputable company.
- Proof of Income: Including work contracts, payslips, bank statements, or freelance contracts with foreign companies.
- Degree or Work Experience: Valid university degree or minimum 3 years of related work experience in IT.
- Proof of Residency in Spain: Such as a rental contract or property deed.
- Visa Fee Payment: Payment of the visa application fee at the time of submission.
Visa Application Process
- Document Collection: Gather all the documents listed above.
- Obtain NIE Number: Apply for and obtain the Foreigners’ Identification Number (NIE) from the Spanish consulate or within Spain.
- Schedule an Appointment: Book a meeting at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.
- Submit Documents: Attend the consulate appointment and submit the required documents in person.
- Pay Visa Fee: Pay the applicable visa fee during document submission.
- Wait for Processing: The application processing time ranges from 15 to 45 business days.
- Receive Visa: Upon approval, receive your Spain Digital Nomad Visa.
Benefits of the Spain Digital Nomad Visa
- Initial One-Year Residence: With the possibility to extend up to 5 years.
- Family Reunification: Including spouse, children, and dependent parents.
- Access to the Schengen Area: Free travel to 27 Schengen member countries.
- Tax Benefits: Reduced tax rates for incomes up to €600,000 per year.
- Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for permanent residency, and after 10 years, Spanish citizenship.
Important Notes for Iranian Applicants
- Official Translation of Documents: All documents must be officially translated into Spanish and bear certified stamps.
- Foreign Currency Income: Income must originate from foreign sources and be in valid international currencies.
- Limit on Spanish Income: A maximum of 20% of income can come from Spanish companies.
- Work Experience: Having prior work experience in IT is a positive factor.
Conclusion
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa offers a great opportunity for IT freelancers seeking to experience life in Europe. With careful planning and proper documentation, you can take advantage of this opportunity and expand your professional and personal life in Spain.
