The growing digitalization of work has led many professionals to seek a more flexible lifestyle, and Spain has adapted well to this new reality. Since the approval of Law 28/2022 on the promotion of the startup ecosystem, also known as the Startup Law, the country offers a new type of permit: the digital nomad visa. This authorization allows individuals who work remotely for foreign companies to legally reside in Spain.
But how does it differ from other existing residence permits? What are its advantages and limitations compared to, for instance, the temporary residence and work permit as an employee? Let’s explain how this new permit stands out from other options available under Spain’s immigration law.
What is the digital nomad visa in Spain?
The digital nomad visa is a residence permit aimed at non-EU nationals who carry out their professional activity remotely, using digital means, for companies located outside of Spain.
This permit was introduced by Article 74 of Law 28/2022, which amends Law 14/2013 on support for entrepreneurs. Specifically, it adds a new Article 74 bis, which regulates residence for international remote workers, more commonly referred to as the digital nomad visa.
To obtain this authorization, applicants must prove that they:
- Are a non-EU national.
- Carry out remote work or professional activities using digital tools.
- Work for a company based outside Spain.
- Have had a stable employment or professional relationship with that company for at least three months.
- Have professional qualifications or work experience: a university degree, vocational training, or at least three years of relevant work experience is required.
- Have sufficient financial means: at least 200% of the Spanish Minimum Wage (SMI). In 2025, this equates to approximately €2,763 per month for the main applicant.
- Have no criminal record in the past five years and possess full health coverage in Spain through public or private insurance.
How is this visa different from other residence permits?
Below we take a closer look at the main differences between the digital nomad visa and other migration options, specifically the employee residence and work permit and the non-lucrative residence permit.
1. Permitted Activity: Can you work in Spain?
The main difference from the employee residence and work permit is that the latter requires a formal work contract with a Spanish company. In contrast, the digital nomad visa does not allow work for Spanish companies, except occasionally (up to 20% of total professional activity).
This is a fundamental distinction: the employee permit is designed to fill roles in the national labor market, whereas the digital nomad visa is intended to attract talent already employed by foreign companies who wish to live in Spain while continuing their remote work.
On the other hand, the non-lucrative residence permit allows living in Spain without engaging in any work. Although this may appear similar to the digital nomad visa in terms of applicant profiles (foreign professionals with independent resources), there is a critical limitation: remote work is not allowed. This restriction has led many digital professionals to choose the new visa, as the non-lucrative permit may be incompatible with their lifestyle.
2. Applicable Legal Framework: General Regime vs. Startup Law
Another key legal difference lies in the applicable regulatory framework. The digital nomad visa falls under Law 14/2013 on support for entrepreneurs, specifically the section on international mobility. This means that procedures are more streamlined and centralized through the Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE), with shorter deadlines and positive administrative silence if no response is issued.
By contrast, employee residence and work permits, as well as non-lucrative permits, fall under the General Immigration Regime (Royal Decree 1155/2024 of November 19), which entails longer procedures, intervention by the local Immigration Office, and stricter requirements for hiring or demonstrating social integration.
3. Application Location: From Spain or Abroad?
The digital nomad visa can be requested either from the consulate in the applicant’s home country or while legally in Spain (e.g., as a tourist), which offers a significant practical advantage.
In contrast, the non-lucrative residence permit must be applied for from the applicant’s country of origin.
4. Initial Duration
The digital nomad visa grants an initial residence authorization of three years. This can be renewed for an additional two years and, if the requirements are still met (remote work for foreign companies, sufficient income, health coverage), it opens the path to long-term residence after five continuous and legal years in Spain.
For those who obtain an employee residence and work permit or a non-lucrative residence permit, the initial duration is one year. If the employment continues or sufficient income is demonstrated, it can be renewed for two years, followed by a second two-year renewal. Upon completing five continuous years of legal residence, the foreign national may apply for long-term residence.
5. Financial Requirements
To qualify for the digital nomad residence permit, applicants must prove they have income equal to at least 200% of the Minimum Wage (SMI). In 2025, the SMI in Spain is €1,184 per month (in 14 payments), which means the applicant must prove at least €2,368 in monthly net income.
In the case of the non-lucrative residence permit, the applicant must demonstrate sufficient financial means to reside in Spain without working. These means are calculated based on the Public Multiple Effect Income Indicator (IPREM). The minimum amount required for the main applicant is 400% of the monthly IPREM, which in 2025 is approximately €2,400 per month or €28,800 per year.
Unlike the above, the employee residence and work permit does not require proof of prior financial solvency, since the economic means are assumed through the employment contract. In this case, the salary offered must meet or exceed the amount set by the applicable collective agreement or the current Minimum Wage if no agreement exists.
6. Taxation: How Are Your Earnings Taxed?
Holders of the digital nomad visa can opt for the special tax regime for inbound workers, also known as the Beckham Law, for a period of six years.
Under this regime, they are taxed at a flat rate of 24% on employment income up to €600,000. Additionally, taxation is limited to income generated within Spain, excluding foreign dividends or rental income.
By contrast:
- Non-lucrative residents are taxed as regular tax residents under the progressive personal income tax (IRPF) rates.
- Employees are taxed under the general tax regime.
In conclusion, he digital nomad visa represents a significant innovation in Spain’s immigration system, offering a specific pathway for individuals who work remotely for foreign companies. Compared to other permits such as the employee work permit or the non-lucrative residence, it stands out for its longer initial duration, possibility of applying from within Spain, and tax benefits for those who choose the impatriate regime.
However, it also demands higher income thresholds and a stable professional relationship. Choosing the right option depends on each applicant’s personal and professional circumstances. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully assess each alternative and, if necessary, seek specialized legal advice.
