Digital Nomad Visa Spain: Documents Checklist
Imagine trading your office view for sunny beaches, vibrant cities, and a culture rich in tradition and innovation. Sounds irresistible, right?
That’s the promise of becoming a digital nomad in Spain: a destination that perfectly blends work and leisure. To make this dream a reality, the first step is understanding the digital nomad visa application process. If you're considering taking your remote work to the sunny balmy plains of Spain, having a clear checklist of the necessary documents can be your guiding star.
The allure of living in Spain as a digital nomad extends beyond its stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine. Spain offers an enriching culture, dynamic cities, and a chance to enjoy a slower pace of life. However, to start your Spanish adventure, understanding the visa requirements and preparing your documents accordingly is crucial. Without further ado, let's dive into everything you need to know about the digital nomad visa Spain and the documents checklist you need for a successful application.
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1. What is the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain?
Spain has embraced the digital nomad trend by offering a visa specifically tailored to attract remote workers. The digital nomad visa allows individuals who perform work remotely, typically for foreign companies, to reside in Spain. This program recognizes the changing nature of work and aims to infuse talent in various regions of the country, promoting local growth while providing digital nomads with a wealth of experiences to explore.
2. Digital Nomad Visa Spain Requirements
Before delving into the documents checklist, it's important to familiarize yourself with the digital nomad visa Spain requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa in Spain. Primarily, you'll need to:
These requirements are the foundation of your application, setting you up for success as you gather the additional documentation needed.
3. Digital Nomad Visa Spain Documents Checklist
Let's walk through the essential document checklist to ensure your application process unfolds smoothly. Missing documents can delay or even derail your application, so careful preparation is key. Some of them, will need to be apostilled/legalized and sworn translated into Spanish.
a. Valid Passport: This should be valid for at least the length of your intended stay in Spain or, at least, 1 year. If you apply within Spain, it must show the entry stamp in Spain. If you enter the EU through a different European country, an entry declaration might be required. Check with your immigration office what other prove can be accepted, this is key!
b. Proof of Employment: Documentation showing your employment status, such as a contract with a foreign company or proof of self-employment, is necessary. This proof must demonstrate the nature of your work and its remote character.
c. Employment Authorization Letter: Documentation proving you can continue working for your current employer remotely or that your freelance work is legitimate. This letter must confirm, as well, the duration of the contract and habitual payments, and be translated into Spanish.
d. Employer incorporation certificate: An official incorporation certificate proving that the company you work for has been active for, at least, 1 year is required. It must be apostilled/legalized by the government and translated into Spanish by a certified translator.
e. Proof of work experience or University Degree: Documents proving work experience of, at least, 3 years is required. A useful alternative is providing a university degree related to your current role.
f. Proof of Financial Means: You'll need bank statements and payslips or invoices from the last 3 months proving you have the financial resources to support yourself during your residency.
g. Health Insurance: Comprehensive insurance that provides coverage in Spain is mandatory.
h. Criminal Record Report: This report should be recent, ideally no more than three months old, and needs to be obtained from every country you've resided in during the past five years.
i. Application Form: Completed visa application form, which can often be downloaded from the consulate’s website.
Compiling these documents may seem daunting, but once gathered, they become a powerful asset in your digital nomad adventure, paving the way to a seamless transition into life in Spain.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to the Digital Nomad Visa Spain Application
Now that you have your digital nomad visa Spain documents checklist ready, let's explore the actual application procedure. Adhering to a structured process can prevent unexpected hiccups and ensure a smoother path to approval.
Step 1: Research and Gather Information
Before submitting your application, educate yourself on the specific requirements and processes that apply to your particular situation. This includes understanding the variations in application procedures depending on your home country and the Spanish consulate you will be dealing with.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Using the checklist we’ve outlined, begin collecting all necessary documents. Ensure each document is current, correctly translated if needed (Spanish is best), and legalized according to the requirements.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Download and thoroughly complete the visa application form. Double-check all entries for accuracy to avoid processing delays or rejections.
Step 4: Schedule a Consulate Appointment or travel to Spain under your Tourist Visa
There are two possible procedures to apply for your Digital Nomad Visa:
a. You can book an in-person appointment at a Spanish consulate in your home country. Due to potential waiting times, schedule your appointment well in advance. Prepare for this appointment by knowing the timeline, questions, and additional documentation that might be requested on the spot.
b. If you wish to apply within Spain, make sure to have tourist days available.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
With everything in order, submit your visa application according with your chosen procedure.
Step 6: Await Approval
After submission, there’s typically a waiting period while your application is processed. Use this time to prepare for your move, familiarizing yourself with Spanish culture, language, and customs to ease your transition.
❗ If you apply from the consulate, please note that your passport will be held until a decision is made, and you won’t be able to travel during this time. Depending on the consulate, it can take between 1-2 months approximately.
❗ If you apply from within Spain, the process normally takes up to 20 business days.
5. Tips for a Successful Digital Nomad Experience in Spain
Once you've secured your digital nomad visa, it’s time to make the most of your new life in Spain. Here are a few tips to help you settle in smoothly:
✅ Join Community Groups: Getting involved with local or expat communities can enhance your experience and provide support networks.
✅Embrace the Culture: Engage in cultural events, try local foods, and learn Spanish to better integrate and enjoy your surroundings.
✅Balance Work and Leisure: With Spain’s vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, be sure to carve out time for exploration and relaxation.
6. Final Words on Becoming a Digital Nomad in Spain
Spain offers more than just a place to work remotely; it provides a lifestyle enriched with history, diversity, and endless opportunities for personal growth.
By following the digital nomad visa Spain documents checklist and adhering to the application process, you’ll unlock the door to a new way of living and working.
Get ready to enjoy sun-soaked workdays and evenings filled with tapas as you embark on this exciting digital nomad journey in Spain. Embrace the change, and let the Iberian Peninsula inspire your next chapter.
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:
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?
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!