Key Takeaways
- Spain introduces a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to reside and work in the country for up to five years.
- The visa is part of Spain’s Startup Act, addressing economic impacts and rural depopulation post-pandemic.
- Around 30 towns join the National Network of Welcoming Villages, aiming to attract and assist digital nomads settling in Spain.
Spanish Digital Nomad Visa Announcement
Madrid, Spain–The Spanish government has announced the introduction of a digital nomad visa designed to attract remote workers to the country. This new visa, planned to be launched this month, allows digital nomads to live and work in Spain for up to five years.
The new visa is part of a recently passed law by the Spanish Parliament called the ‘Startup Act (Ley de Startups),’ which reacted to the economic impact on the country and the significant reduction of population in rural areas since the pandemic.
National Network of Welcoming Villages
Around 30 towns and villages across Spain have decided to join the Red Nacional de Pueblos Acogedores para el Teletrabajo (National Network of Welcoming Villages for Remote workers). This program connects tourists with local hosts who will help guide them and get settled to encourage digital nomads to visit.
“The visa aims to attract and retain international and national talents by helping remote workers and digital nomads set up in Spain,” said Spain’s Economic Affairs Minister Nadia Calviño in the report.
Although subject to change, to be eligible, one must meet the following criteria:
- Be a national of a country outside the EEA or EU (and Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway)
- Have a foreign employer (outside Spain).
- Have a minimum income of $2,680 per month (dependents can apply)
- Show proof of residency in Spain
- Show proof of qualification to work in the field (college degree or work experience)
- Have a minimum income of $2,680 per month (dependents can apply)
- Remote workers have to pay a 15 percent tax on their income during the first four years of their stay
Presently, citizens of the EU and the EAA can live in Spain and work as digital nomads for up to three months with no restrictions, after which they must register their stay at a local registration hall to extend their stay period (non-EU citizens were not allowed to work remotely, and had to find a job in Spain).
Spain’s Appeal to Digital Nomads
Spain is projected to be a popular destination among the digital nomad community due to its rich history and culture, unique architecture, beautiful landscapes, warm weather, and some of the best internet speeds in the EU.
What We Think
Spain’s implementation of the digital nomad visa aligns with global trends in remote work, enticing talents to contribute to the country’s economy and revitalizing rural areas.
The relaxed eligibility criteria and extended stay period signal an openness to welcoming international talents.
As a country renowned for its history, culture, and appealing landscapes, Spain’s initiative might position it favorably among the digital nomad community, further boosting its economy and cultural exchange. The implementation of this visa marks a progressive step in adapting to evolving work trends and promoting diversity within its workforce.
