Are you dreaming of working remotely while soaking up the Mediterranean sun? Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) allows non-EU remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to live and work legally in Spain for up to five years.
Whether you're freelancing from a café in Madrid or managing projects from a villa in Valencia, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa could be your fast track to remote work freedom in Europe.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa in 5 clear steps, plus post-approval tips and expert help to ensure success.
Step 1: Get Your Core Documents Ready
Start early, these essential documents often take the longest to process:
✅ Criminal record certificate (with apostille and sworn Spanish translation)
✅ Remote work contract or freelance agreements
✅ Company registration certificate (apostilled and translated)
✅ Proof of qualifications: university degree OR 3+ years of relevant work experience
✅ Employer letter authorizing remote work from Spain
✅ Social security certificate (for employees)
Pro Tip: Apostille and sworn translation services often take some time: start early!
Step 2: Collect Your Financial and Identity Proofs
Prove your financial stability and identity:
✅ Last 3 months of bank statements and payslips/invoices
✅ Updated CV (with standard Spanish translation)
✅ Full passport scan + entry stamp (or legal entry proof)
✅ Private health insurance from a Spanish provider (Alternatively: A1 Certificate for social security coverage in some countries)
Minimum income requirement: €2,780/month main applicant + €1.036/month first dependant + €350/month extra dependants
Step 3: Complete the Required Application Forms
Fill out and submit these official forms:
📄 MI-T Form: Residency permit application
📄 Declaration of No Criminal Record (signed)
📄 Social Security Registration Form (for self-employed applicants)
📄 Modelo 790 - Code 038: Fee payment form
Pro Tip: Always double-check the latest forms on the official Spanish immigration website or consult a visa specialist.
Step 4: Include Your Family Members (If Applicable)
Bringing your partner, kids, or even dependent parents? You can include them in your application. Here’s what’s needed for each dependent:
✅ Passport + proof of entry
✅ Criminal record certificate (only for those 18+)
✅ Marriage or birth certificate (apostilled & translated)
✅ Private health insurance in Spain
✅ Proof of extra income to support dependents
Important: All relationship documents must be apostilled and sworn translated into Spanish.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Wait for Approval
You’re ready to apply! Depending on where you apply from, the process varies:
If applying from within Spain:
- Submit via Spain’s online immigration platform
- Get a 3-year visa
- Processing time is approx. 20 working days
If applying from abroad:
- Apply at your local Spanish consulate
- You’ll receive a 1-year visa
- Processing time is approx. 10 working days
After Approval: What's Next?
Once approved:
✅Register your address (Empadronamiento)
✅Get your TIE card (Foreigner Identity Card)
✅Register your address (empadronamiento)
✅ Set up Spanish tax and social security registration
✅ Consult a tax advisor to understand your obligations
Application costs
Expect to spend €750 to €1,500 in total for the visa process, depending on your location and specific needs. Here's a breakdown of common expenses:
- Visa application fee: €70
- Foreign identity card fee: €70–€100 (payable once in Italy)
- Document-related costs:
- Certified translations
- Apostilles/legalizations
- Background checks
- Health insurance: International coverage required
Optional: work with a Relocation Expert
While it’s entirely possible to handle the process on your own, many applicants choose to work with a relocation agency or visa consultant to reduce stress and avoid costly mistakes.
Expect to pay between €1,500 and €2,000 for full-service assistance.
A reliable service typically includes:
- Personalized eligibility checks
- Document preparation & review
- Clear explanatory notes for consular officers
- Appointment booking support
- Step-by-step guidance through the residence permit process
Pro Tips to avoid common Mistakes
❌ Don’t apply with the bare minimum. Meeting the requirement is not the same as proving your case clearly. Add context, add supporting
evidence, and add structure.
❌ Underestimate the translation and apostille process at your own risk. Delays here can hold up your entire application.
✅ Start early. Some document may require time, expecially the social security coverage certificate.
✅ Be proactive and thorough. Include explanatory notes, check local consulate instructions carefully, and prepare for the strictest
interpretation of every requirement.
How MoveWise Can Assist You
Applying for a DNV Spain can feel overwhelming, but MoveWise is here to simplify the process. Our mission is to make your application journey smooth and stress-free with a range of expert services:
- Tailored Support: We adapt our services to fit your unique situation, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Optimized Scheduling: We streamline your application timeline to ensure everything progresses on schedule.
- End-to-End Support: From preparing documents to final submission, we take care of every detail of your application.
- Tax Guidance: Our specialists provide clarity on the tax obligations and options associated with your DNV.
- Thorough Documentation: We ensure every document is correctly prepared and meets all official requirements.
- 100% money back guarantee: If your application is not approved, we offer a full money-back guarantee as a testament to our commitment.
The Digital Nomad visa for Spain offers a fantastic opportunity to live abroad while working remothely, granting you the freedom to explore and enjoy the country’s vibrant culture and relaxed lifestyle.
Ready to embark on your next adventure?
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While the requirements for obtaining a Digital Nomad visa for Spain are straightforward, preparing the necessary documents and navigating the
application process can be challenging. Mistakes or incomplete paperwork could put your application at risk. If you have any doubts or questions about the Digital Nomad Visa process, BOOK TODAY a 100% Free Consultation.
We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Hasta pronto!
