Spain Digital Nomad Visa 2025: Guide for U.S. Remote Workers

How to Qualify for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa in 2025: A Clear Guide for U.S. Citizens Working Remotely

If you're a U.S. citizen working remotely and considering a move to Spain, the Spain Digital Nomad Visa offers a legal, streamlined way to live and work in one of Europe’s most vibrant destinations. Whether you’re employed by a U.S. company or operate your own freelance business with international clients, this digital nomad visa was designed for professionals like you.

Below, we cover everything about eligibility, required documents, the application process, tax implications, and insider advice to make your application process smoother and boost your digital nomad visa Spain success.

What Is Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?

The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain is a residency permit introduced under Spain’s “Startup Act.” It allows non‑EU nationals to legally live in Spain for up to five years while working remotely for companies or clients based outside of Spain. This visa differs from the non‑lucrative visa because it explicitly permits professional activity.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the Spain digital nomad visa, applicants must show that they have been working remotely for at least three months for foreign employers or clients.

Eligibility checklist:

• Non‑EU/EEA/Swiss citizen (U.S. citizens qualify)

• Employed by a company or freelancing—with clients—outside Spain

• Employment relationship/expertise ongoing for minimum 3 months, with supporting contract or agreement

• Up to 20% of freelance income may come from Spanish clients if registered as self-employed

• Clean criminal record (last five years)

• Legal status: not overstaying in Spain

• Health insurance valid in Spain or enrollment in Spanish Social Security

• Financial means to support yourself and family:

  • €2,646/month for main applicant

  • +75% (€1,984.50) for spouse

  • +25% (€661.50) per child

Requirements may vary slightly depending on the consulate or region, so always confirm locally

What Documents Will You Need?

As part of your Spain Digital Nomad Visa application, gather these essential documents:

• Employment or freelance agreements at least three months old

• Statement from employer/clients confirming remote work

• FBI background check + apostille

• Proof of income (bank statements, invoices, tax returns)

• University degree or proof of 3+ years of work experience

• Valid passport

• Health insurance policy valid in Spain

• Visa application form or digital submission confirmation

Our team at Global Felicity Group can help you procure FBI checks, apostilles, certified translations, and ship documents—so you can concentrate on planning your life in Spain.

Where and How to Apply

You can apply for the Spain digital nomad visa via two main routes:

1. From outside Spain — through your local Spanish consulate. Approval grants a one‑year visa; after arrival, convert it to a three‑year residence permit, with potential two‑year renewals.

2. From within Spain — enter on a tourist visa and apply online via Spain’s Unidad de Grandes Empresas (UGE). Approval offers a three‑year residence permit; renewals are granted every two years. Official processing time is 20 working days, though real-world delays are common

How Are Digital Nomads Taxed in Spain?

Visa holders can opt into Spain’s Non‑Resident Tax Regime, known as the Beckham Law, entitling them to:

• Flat 24% income tax on up to €600,000 per year, valid for five years

• Exemption from global taxation

• Requires registration with Spanish Social Security and obtaining an NIE and NIF

If you’re in Spain more than 183 days per year, you’ll become a tax resident—so planning ahead is key.

FAQs

Can I work for Spanish companies?
Yes—if you're freelance, but income from Spanish clients must not exceed 20% of your total work

Can freelancers apply?
Absolutely—just ensure you’ve had foreign clients for at least three months.

Can I bring my spouse and children?
Yes. Include dependents in your application and show extra financial resources.

Is Spanish required?
No—but it will help immensely with daily life, administration, and appointments.

Will I become a tax resident?
If you stay over 183 days per year, yes. However, the Beckham Law offers favorable tax treatment for your first five years.

Already in Spain?
You can apply digitally before your tourist visa (90 days) expires.

Ready to Apply? Let Us Help You Prepare.

Moving across borders can be exciting—but gathering international documents, navigating legal steps, and meeting deadlines can be challenging.

Global Felicity Group specializes in helping U.S. remote professionals secure the Spain Digital Nomad Visa by assisting with:

• FBI background checks and apostilles

• Certified Spanish translations

• Courier shipping with tracking and care

• Coordination with Spanish consulates or digital platforms

Your work is remote—so is ours. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on your Spanish future.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your digital nomad journey.

Written by Global Felicity Group
Clarity, compliance, and confidence—for your global lifestyle in Spain.

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