Should I get the Spain non-lucrative visa or the digital nomad visa?
Updated · Spain nomad visa guide · Not legal advice
If you will keep working remotely, choose the digital nomad visa: it is designed for remote work for non-Spanish companies, while the non-lucrative visa (NLV) is for people living on savings or passive income and does not authorise work. The NLV's financial requirement is tied to Spain's IPREM index, so check the current amount on your consulate's page.
| Item | Digital nomad visa | Non-lucrative visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Remote work for companies/clients mostly outside Spain | Living in Spain without working |
| Can you work? | Yes, remotely (Spanish clients ≤ 20% if self-employed) | No |
| Money test | 200% of the SMI (about €2,849/month) | Multiple of IPREM: check the consulate's page |
| Where to apply | Consulate or UGE from inside Spain | Consulate |
| Tax regime option | Beckham law may apply | Not the teleworker route |
When the NLV still makes sense
If you are retired or living on investments and do not plan to work, the NLV fits. If you might work even part time for clients, the NLV is the wrong tool.
Quick answers
- Can I work remotely on a non-lucrative visa?
- The NLV does not authorise work. Remote workers should use the digital nomad visa.
- Which is easier?
- It depends on your income source. Steady remote income: digital nomad visa. Savings or passive income: NLV.
- Which leads to permanent residence?
- Legal residence in Spain under either generally counts toward long-term residence after 5 years; check the rules for your case.
What to do next
Run the free check to see if you meet the digital nomad visa rules today.
Check my eligibilitySources
- UGE (Ministerio de Inclusión): Large Companies and Strategic Groups Unit
- BOE: Law 14/2013 (consolidated text, arts. 74 bis and 74 ter)
- Embassy of Spain in Washington: consulates and jurisdictions
Checked: . Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.