Spain Digital Nomad Visa - The Complete Guide

If you're craving a slice of life that consists of vibrant and warm European summers while you're snacking on tapas and sipping on sangria, and you have the luxury or option of working remotely from anywhere in the world, then the Spain Digital Nomad Visa may just be the calling card you've been waiting for. If anything, think of this as a sign to explore the possibilities of living out some of your wildest dreams.

Spain has a specific digital nomad visa that is valid for non-EU or EEA individuals who want to work and travel remotely throughout Spain. As Spain is a diverse country with a rich blend of city culture as well as remote countryside, you can pick the kind of trip or holiday you're after. Even if you're chasing a blend of lifestyles, Spain is the perfect place to deliver it.

In comparison to western parts of Europe, Spain is extremely affordable (in more remote areas) and offers a really enticing work-life balance for those who have been pushing themselves in the big smoke. This is one of the major draw cards for those who can work remotely, as you can still excel in your career and pursue your industry dreams, even if the work isn't available in Spain itself — all while reaping the benefits of living in a beautiful part of the world.

If you're thinking about choosing Spain as your working holiday destination but need further convincing, here are our top reasons why you should work and live in Spain:

• Amazing Cuisine and Lively Culture: Even in the more remote areas of Spain, you will be spoiled with amazing food and an intense passion and lust for festivities and events. This is one of the main draw cards for people going — and falling in love with — Spain. The intensity of how the locals celebrate life is unmatched.
• Growing Expat and Nomadic Scene: The expat and nomadic digital scene is growing rapidly, ensuring you will always have an amazing place to work and connect with other like-minded individuals. Remote work can be lonely at times, so it's important to have a rich community of others on the same path.
• Easy Travel to the Rest of Europe: Accessing the rest of Europe is not only affordable, it's quick and convenient. With multiple cheap airlines flying in and out of Spain to other parts of the world, you can visit the Colosseum one weekend and sip martinis under the Eiffel Tower the next. Perfect for those with a lust for travel who want to maximise their time abroad.
• High Quality of Life: Spain — especially in the major cities — has great transportation, healthcare, career progression opportunities and infrastructure, meaning you don't have to miss out on any of the responsible parts of life while having a bunch of fun at the same time.

Visa Pathways to Live and Work in Spain

The main visa option for remote workers looking to live in Spain is the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, also referred to as the Spain Telework Visa. Introduced in the wake of the pandemic, this visa was created as the Spanish government began recognising the growing demand from remote workers wanting to live outside their country of employment. It's a win–win situation: digital professionals gain lifestyle flexibility, and Spain benefits from the economic boost.

This visa is primarily intended for individuals who are not EU or EEA citizens, with the majority of their income sourced from outside of Spain. If you're self-employed, up to 20% of your income may come from Spanish companies.

One of the key attractions of this visa is its flexibility — it's valid for up to one year, with the option to renew for up to five. So if you fall in love with Spain and can't imagine living anywhere else, you've got the freedom to stay longer.

To apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, you must have:

• Non-EU/EEA citizenship
• Proof of remote work:
  • Employment with a non-Spanish company (minimum 3 months' employment prior to applying)
  • The company must have been operational for at least 1 year
  • Or a portfolio of international clients (minimum 3 months of ongoing work), with no more than 20% of income sourced from Spanish clients
• Qualifications or professional experience:
  • Undergraduate or postgraduate degree
  • Or a minimum of 3 years' professional experience in your field
• A clean criminal record
• Valid private health insurance
• No prior Spanish tax residency in the last 5 years
• Not currently residing in Spain illegally=

Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

Applying for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa involves gathering documentation online and submitting your application through your local Spanish consulate. It's always best to consult the official Spanish government website for the most accurate and up-to-date requirements.

Documents typically required include:

• Valid passport
• Proof of income
• NIE number (must be obtained prior to application)
• National visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photographs (meeting Spain's photo requirements)
• Criminal record certificate (local/national police check)
• Proof of residence
• Proof of representative identity or power of attorney (if applicable)
• Payment of the visa fee
• Health insurance policy details
• Proof of sufficient financial means

Organising Your Visa Through Global Work & Travel

The idea of moving overseas can feel overwhelming — especially when you're juggling visa paperwork, accommodation, and work arrangements. If the thought of tackling it all alone has you hesitating, that's where we come in.

At Global Work & Travel, we assist with Spain Digital Nomad Visas and tailored experiences across Spain. From organising logistics to handling bookings, we take the admin off your plate — so you can focus on the exciting part: making a move.

The Best Places to Live in Spain

Valencia: If you're looking for a vibrant city by the sea, Valencia is hard to beat. It offers a rich artistic culture, lush green spaces, and a strong sense of community. Affordable and walkable, with a growing remote work scene, it strikes a perfect balance between lifestyle and livability.

Barcelona: Barcelona offers a little of everything — stunning architecture, deep cultural history, buzzing nightlife, and a booming tech scene. It's ideal for creatives, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads alike. With a lively expat community and a city that never sleeps, it's easy to feel at home here.

Madrid: If career progression is a priority, Madrid delivers. Spain's capital city offers endless business opportunities, world-class museums, a vibrant social scene, and excellent infrastructure. It's also great for families and young professionals seeking a polished urban lifestyle.

Seville: Often described as one of Spain's hidden gems, Seville captures the heart of Spanish tradition — flamenco, historic architecture, and local cuisine. It's affordable, warm year-round, and perfect for those looking for a slower pace and a more authentic Spanish experience.

Málaga: On the rise in recent years, Málaga has quickly become a favourite among digital nomads. It offers a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle without the price tag of other coastal cities. With improved infrastructure and plenty of cultural offerings, it's an easy, affordable, and beautiful place to call home.

Booking Experiences Through Global Work & Travel

Experiencing Spain with Global Work & Travel isn’t just about relocating — it’s about unlocking a curated travel experience built around adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments. We don’t just help you move; we help you live — through handpicked experiences you can book along the way. 

Our top picks of experiences in Spain: 

• Teach English in Barcelona: Immerse yourself in Catalan culture while gaining teaching experience. 
• Au Pair in Spain: Live with a local family, care for children, and experience authentic Spanish life. 
• Learn Spanish in Valencia or Barcelona: Boost your language skills with immersive courses in dynamic cities., including Valencia and Barcelona. 
• Combine Surfing & Spanish: Hit the waves and the books with a unique surf and language program.
• Digital Nomad Barcelona Program: Get set up for remote work life in Barcelona with structured support. Explore the Program.
• Enjoy Tapas, Medinas & Sunsets in Spain, Portugal & Morocco: Embark on an adventure exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the Spain digital nomad visa? This visa is specifically for non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely. You'll need to either be employed by a non-Spanish company (for at least 3 months) or be self-employed with international clients. If you're freelancing, just make sure no more than 20% of your income comes from Spanish businesses.

2. How long can I stay in Spain on a digital nomad visa? The visa is initially valid for up to one year, but it can be extended for up to five years. It's a great option if you fall in love with the Spanish lifestyle and want to stick around longer.

3. What documents do I need to be able to apply? You'll need a valid passport, proof of income, an NIE number, a visa application form, recent passport photos, a criminal record check, proof of residence, health insurance, and documentation showing your financial means. It's always a good idea to check the latest list with your local Spanish consulate.

4. Is Spain a good place for digital nomads? Absolutely. Spain offers great weather, a relatively low cost of living (especially outside the major cities), strong infrastructure, and a growing community of remote workers. Whether you're after beach life, culture, or a slower pace — there's a city or town to suit your vibe.

5. Can Global Work & Travel help me move to Spain? Yes, we can help you organise a digital nomad experience in Spain. Our Digital Nomad Barcelona trip is designed for remote workers looking to live and work abroad, with support for travel logistics, accommodation, and cultural integration to help you settle in and make the most of your time overseas.

Final Thoughts

The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is a clear win for those looking to enjoy a slice of Mediterranean life while continuing to grow in their career. As one of the most liveable countries in Europe, Spain offers incredible diversity and a rich cultural backdrop — from food and history to architecture and lifestyle. It's a vibrant destination with something to suit every pace and preference.

We rate Spain as one of our top picks for nomadic work and travel. With a relatively low cost of living, you can make the most of your income while enjoying everything the country has to offer. Plus, its location makes it easy and affordable to travel across the rest of Europe — a major bonus for those keen to explore more of the world without burning through time or money.

If you want to learn about the working holiday visa’s for other countries, we have extensive guides for countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Korea, Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong, Estonia, Netherlands, Portugal, Peru, Greece, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, New Zealand, Ecuador, Brazil and more coming.