Applying for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is an exciting step, but one of the most confusing parts of the process is knowing which documents must be apostilled/legalized and which need an official sworn translation. Getting this right from the start can save you time, money, and avoid unnecessary delays.
Why Apostille and Translation Matter
- Apostille: This is a type of international certification that makes your documents legally valid in Spain (and other Hague Convention countries). Without it, Spanish authorities may not recognize your paperwork.
- Double Legalization: If the issuing country is not a member of the Hague Convention, a different process applies. First, the document must be legalized by that country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Then, it must be taken to the Spanish Consulate in the same country for a second legalization. Only after these two steps is the document fully legalized.
- Sworn Translation: Spain requires some main foreign documents to be in Spanish. This translation needs to be provided by sworn translators registered in the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the corresponding consulate to be accepted by immigration offices.
Documents That Typically Need Apostille
For the DNV application, these are the most common documents that need to be with an apostille or double legalizacion from your home country:
- Criminal Background Check (from your country of residence and/or nationality).
- Marriage Certificate (if you are applying with a spouse)
- Birth Certificates (if you are applying with children as dependents).
- Certificate of Incorporation of the Employer or Client (to prove the foreign company you work with is legally registered for over a year).
- University Degree (to show your professional qualifications ).
- Security coverage certificate.
⚠️ Note: Apostilles can take some time to be processed. Make sure to request ahead of time.
Documents That Require Sworn Translation
Once apostilled, most of your documents will also need to be translated into Spanish by a sworn translator in Spain. These include:
- Criminal Background Check
- Marriage Certificate
- Birth Certificates
- Company Registration Certificate
- Work Contract or Service Agreement
- Reference Letter from Employer or Clients
- Any other official documents not originally in Spanish that you plan to submit
What Usually Does Not Need Apostille/Sworn Translation
Some documents are often accepted in English or in their original form, such as:
- Passport copies
- Bank statements
- Payslips
- Spanish forms
- Self Declarations and explanations already written in Spainish language or translated with a standard translation
Pro Tip: Plan Ahead
Getting apostilles and translations can take time, especially if you’re requesting documents from different countries. We recommend starting this step as early as possible so your paperwork is ready when you apply. At MoveWise, we guide you through the entire documentation process to ensure full compliance with the consulate and Spanish authorities.
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.
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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.
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