Do I need a degree for the Spain digital nomad visa, or is 3 years' experience enough?
Updated · Spain nomad visa guide · Not legal advice
You need one or the other: a university degree (or recognised vocational/business-school qualification) related to your work, or at least 3 years of professional experience in the field you will work in remotely. Experience is proven with reference letters from employers or clients, contracts and a CV.
| Route | Evidence | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| University degree | Diploma (apostilled, sworn translation) | Field should relate to your current work |
| Vocational / business school | Certificate of the qualification | Ask if your qualification is accepted |
| 3+ years' experience | Employer reference letters with dates and role, contracts, CV | Letters should state start/end dates and duties |
Making the experience route bulletproof
- Get letters on company letterhead with your title, duties and exact dates.
- For freelance years, use client contracts and invoices spanning the period.
- Make sure the experience matches the job you will do from Spain.
Quick answers
- Do I need a degree for the Spain digital nomad visa?
- No, 3 years of relevant professional experience is an accepted alternative.
- Can I prove experience instead of a degree?
- Yes, with reference letters, contracts and a CV that together cover at least 3 years.
- Can a recent graduate apply?
- Yes, a degree satisfies the qualification rule, but you still need at least 3 months with your current employer or clients and the income.
What to do next
The free check asks about your degree or experience and lists exactly what to collect.
Check my qualificationSources
- UGE (Ministerio de Inclusión): Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit
- UGE: digital nomad FAQ (Spanish, PDF)
- BOE: Law 14/2013 (consolidated text, arts. 74 bis and 74 ter)
Checked: . Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.