How to Apply for the Digital Nomad (TELEWORK) Visa in Spain

How to Apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa as an American: Loose Guide to Get Started

Sights set beyond America? I don't blame you. Enter the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain—a golden ticket for remote workers dreaming of Spanish sunsets, stunning cities & a whole new world of cultural experiences. Here’s a loose guide on how to get it done (Disclaimer: I’m not a lawyer, and this is not legal advice, just a few things to think about if you'd like to start making a plan. If you'd like professional advice, click here). I've also included some affiliate links for companies I personally worked with and vouch for! Thank you in advance if you also choose to trust in them and their services, and for letting them know I sent you! Ready? ¡Vamos!

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Step 1: Eligibility Check

The visa is for non-EU remote workers—basically, Americans wanting to live in Spain without giving up their remote job. To qualify, you’ll need:

- Remote Work: Either work for a non-Spanish company or be self-employed with non-Spanish clients.

- Income: Make at least €2,334/month or €28,000 annually. Higher amounts are required if bringing family. You’ll need bank statements, contracts, or tax returns to prove it.

- Clean Criminal Record: No skeletons in the closet, or at least not for the past five years.

Step 2: Get Your NIE

The Foreigner Identity Number (NIE) is your Spanish ID for everything official, kinda like your social security number. You can apply for this through a Spanish consulate before submitting your visa application. Spanish consulates in the U.S. are located in Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, San Francisco, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. This can be a difficult process, I used an online service who went to the appointments & filed the paperwork for me. I paid about $300 for this service, as this can get tricky and expensive when done incorrectly. For additional help with obtaining your NIE and other paperwork, I highly recommend this group.

Step 3: Collect All the Essentials

Prepare these must-haves:

- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed, click here to view it.

- Passport: Must be valid for at least one year, plus a photocopy.

- Employment Docs: Provide proof of employment or client contracts outside Spain, plus a letter confirming remote work.

- Financial Proof: Bank statements, contracts, or payslips that meet the income threshold.

- Health Insurance: Get private insurance that’s accepted in Spain and covers emergencies. I work with a lovely woman here in Spain who assists with private health insurance, please tell her Zoe Scott sent you! Click here to inquire with her about plans & fees.

- FBI Background Check: Recent (within 6 months), apostilled, and translated into Spanish. MUST BE LEGALLY TRANSLATED!

- Qualifications: A degree or proof of at least three years of experience in your work field.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

You have two options:

- Apply from the U.S.: Visit your nearest Spanish consulate. Be ready to bring original documents or mail them with tracking. Recommended option.

- Apply in Spain: If you’re already in Spain on a tourist visa, you can apply directly through the immigration office

Note: I didn't apply for this specific visa but seriously regret applying for my visa in Spain instead of doing it in America. I am currently still waiting for the results of my visa process after 6 months. Last year it took 8 months to resolve (with the student visa). Thankfully, if your Digital Nomad visa is not approved or denied within 20 days from applying here in Spain, your visa is automatically approved. Like many issues in bureaucracy, things take a VERY long time to process. My biggest piece of advice for any visa: get it done before you come here. You'll save a lot more time, tears and money.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

Spain loves a good siesta, so give the process a bit of time. Usually, it takes around 10-20 business days, but you may be asked for extra info. Keep your email handy and check often.

Step 6: Celebrate! (And Pick Up Your Visa)

Once approved, head to the consulate to pick up your visa within a month. Then, you’re all set to work remotely with a view of the Sagrada Familia or a cozy corner café in Madrid.

After You Arrive in Spain

Congratulations, you're a digital nomad in Spain! The visa is valid for one year, with options for renewal up to five years. For the most accurate info, always consult with an immigration attorney or the official government website for updates.

**Disclaimer**: I’m not a lawyer, so this guide is not legal advice. Always check official sources or seek professional help for the latest information.

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