Sunny weather, reasonable living costs, delicious food, breathtaking landscapes – Spain has it all. And with some of the best internet speeds in Europe, the Mediterranean country is one popular destination for expats and outside employees.

The recently launched digital nomad visa has made the country an even more attractive option. The scheme has been in effect since January, as part of the recently approved Startup lawwhich aims to make the country a leader in attracting investment, innovative entrepreneurship and talent.

While other EU countries such as Greece, PortugalAnd Croatia have already introduced similar schemes, the digital nomad visa of Spain introduces yet another competitive offer.

Who is eligible?

The Visa is open to non-EU/EEA nationals working remotely, either as self-employed freelancers or employees. They must mainly work for non-Spanish companies, with Spanish companies accounting for a maximum of 20% of their total income.

Prospective digital nomads must not have lived in the country in the five years prior to applying, and must not be illegally residing in Spain during the application process.

What are the requirements?

Applicants must demonstrate they have worked for their client or company for at least three months before applying – and the company they work for must have been in business for at least a year. They must also prove that they can do their job remotely.

In terms of background, potential visa holders must demonstrate either a minimum of three years of work experience or a graduate/doctoral degree from reputable universities, vocational colleges or prestigious business schools.

At least as important is the proof of financial self-sufficiency. To demonstrate that they can support themselves in Spain, visa applicants must earn 200% of the country’s minimum monthly wage. Currently this amounts to € 2,334 per month or € 28,000 per year.

Spouses and children can also join the visa holders in Spain, in which case an additional 25% for each family member will be added to the threshold income.

Finally, applicants must have a clean criminal record for the past five years, while they must have full private health insurance for the time being.

Visa duration and application process

The digital nomad visa of Spain is originally valid for 12 months, or for the length of the employment period if less than a year. It can be extended for up to five years, after which it is possible to apply for permanent residence.

Interested digital nomads can sign up through a consulate or embassy enter their home country or Spain with a tourist visa and apply within the first three months.

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Fully completed copy of the National visa application form.
• Valid passport and two passport photos.
• Proof of suitable employment (employment contract and/or letter from employer confirming the remote professional activity).
• Proof that the employer/company has been active for at least one year
• Proof of income (payslips, employment contract, bank statements).
• Evidence of qualifications (university degree, professional certificate or proof of at least three years’ experience).
• Proof of health insurance authorized to operate in Spain.
• Check certificates from the criminal record of the last five years.
• Proof of family relationship with other applicants (marriage certificate, birth certificate).

The application fee is approximately €80, although the exact amount may vary slightly depending on the country you are applying from.

It can take 15 to 45 days for the visa to be processed.