Years ago, it was a utopia to be able to do the work you did in your country, with your company, in another part of the world. Now, in an increasingly digitalized world, it is possible to work from home in any country, including Spain.
Lawyers for expats in Spain have pointed out that since the Digital Nomad Visa was implemented, more and more people are opting for this country to work remotely and reside legally while enjoying its culture and discovering every corner of the peninsula.
Do you want to start a new life and don’t know how to apply for a visa? In this article you will find the answers.
Benefits for remote jobs and freelancers to work in Spain
When applying for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain for UKcitizens or anywhere in the world, benefits are obtained for those who want to work remotely in this country:
· It offers a residence permit for up to 3 years, renewable for another 2 years.
· Access to Spanish Social Security, health care and tax advantages.
· It allows family regrouping, allowing your partner and children to reside here as well.
Can UK citizens apply for a Spanish digital nomad visa?
Since Brexit, the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU. Therefore, they can apply for this visa, as they need it to reside legally in Spain beyond the 90 allowed as a tourist stay.
Difference between tourist stay and digital nomad visa
While the tourist stay only allows you to stay in Spain for up to 90 days within a period of 6 months and does not allow you to work, the digital nomad visa allows you to work remotely from Spain for at least 3 years.
Spain digital nomad visa requirements
To obtain the visa for digital nomads you will have to meet a series of requirements:
· Economic requirements: You must demonstrate monthly income equivalent to 200% of the minimum interprofessional wage (SMI) in Spain. In 2024, the SMI is €1,134, so at least €2,268 per month is required.
· Work in a foreign company that is not based in Spain, or be self-employed.
· Present a valid contract of at least 1 year old or a proof that you have been working as a freelancer abroad for more than 3 months.
· Criminal record certificate, legalized and apostilled no more than 3 months old.
· To contract a private medical insurance with full coverage in Spain, equivalent to the Spanish Social Security.
How to apply from the UK
If you are a UK citizen and want to apply for this visa, here is how you should start:
Required documents and official forms
· Official National Visa Application Form.
· Valid passport (minimum 1 year validity).
· Passport type photograph.
· Employment contract or proof of self-employment.
· Criminal record certificate.
· Private medical insurance.
· Proof of monthly income.
· Proof of university degree or work experience.
Translation and legalisation of documents
All the above mentioned documents must be legally translated by a sworn translator and apostilled, according to the Hague Convention.
Appointment at the Spanish Consulate
British citizens must apply for an appointment at the Consulate General of Spain in London, Edinburgh or Manchester. Due to the high demand for these visas, it is advisable to apply well in advance.
Application fees and timelines
The consular fee is approximately 80 €. The resolution time may vary, but is usually around 20 to 45 days from the date of filing.
How long can you stay with the digital nomad visa?
Once the visa is approved, the authorization is valid for up to 3 years, as long as you continue to meet the requirements we have mentioned. Afterwards, you can renew it for 2 more years and after those 5 years of residence, you can apply, if you wish, for long term residence in Spain.
Taxes for UK citizens in Spain
One of the main attractions of the digital nomad visa is the possibility to benefit from the special tax regime known as the Beckham Law. Under this regime:
· A flat rate of 24% is taxed on the first €600,000 of annual income for a maximum of 6 years.
· From that amount, tax is paid at 47%.
To qualify for this regime, it is necessary to submit the application within 6 months from the date of registration with the Spanish Social Security.
