Spain digital nomad visa: every rule, explained plainly

Spain's digital nomad visa (officially the international teleworking visa or residence authorisation) lets non-EU remote workers live in Spain while working for companies or clients mostly outside Spain. Start with the requirements, then go deeper on the rule that worries you.

• What are the Spain digital nomad visa requirements in 2026?Spain's nomad visa needs: remote work for non-Spanish firms, €2,849/month income, a degree or 3 years' experience, insurance and a clean record.
• What is the income requirement for the Spain digital nomad visa in 2026?One applicant needs about €2,849 gross a month (200% of Spain's 2026 minimum wage). Add 75% for a partner and 25% per extra dependant.
• How do I apply for the Spain digital nomad visa as an American?US citizens apply at their state's Spanish consulate or online with the UGE from inside Spain. Steps, US documents (FBI, apostille, SSA) and timing.
• How long does the Spain digital nomad visa take to get approved?The UGE must decide in 20 working days (silence = approval); consulates have a shorter legal target. Document prep and appointments add the real time.
• How much does it cost to apply for the Spain digital nomad visa?Government fees (visa or UGE fee, TIE), FBI check, apostilles, sworn translations and insurance. What each covers and where to check current amounts.
• Do I need a social security certificate for the Spain digital nomad visa with a foreign employer?Employees of foreign companies show a certificate of coverage (US: SSA) or register in Spain. Self-employed register in Spain or show a certificate.
• Can I apply for Spain's digital nomad visa from inside Spain?Yes, if you are legally in Spain you can file a residence authorisation online with the UGE (up to 3 years). Compare it with the consulate visa route.
• Can freelancers get the Spain digital nomad visa, and how many clients do they need?Yes. Show client contracts, 3+ months working with them, income of €2,849+/month, and keep Spanish clients at or under 20% of your work.
• Can my spouse and kids come with me on the Spain digital nomad visa?Yes: spouse or partner, children and dependent relatives can join. Income rises 75% of SMI for the first and 25% for each extra member.
• Does the Spain digital nomad visa let me pay less tax with the Beckham law?International teleworkers can opt into Spain's special regime: 24% up to €600,000 of work income for 6 tax years. US citizens still file in the US.
• Do I need a degree for the Spain digital nomad visa, or is 3 years' experience enough?No degree needed if you can prove 3+ years of professional experience in your field. How to prove either one for the UGE or consulate.
• Should I get the Spain non-lucrative visa or the digital nomad visa?Working remotely? The digital nomad visa allows it; the non-lucrative visa is for passive income and does not authorise work. Side-by-side comparison.
• Why do Spain digital nomad visas get rejected, and can I reapply?Common refusal reasons: low income, short work history, weak employer letter, insurance with copays, missing apostilles. How to reapply or appeal.
• Do I need a lawyer for the Spain digital nomad visa?No, a lawyer is not required. Many file alone or with a flat-fee service. When a licensed immigration lawyer is worth it: complex or refused cases.
• How do I get my TIE card after arriving in Spain?Visa holders apply for the TIE within one month of entry: police appointment, form EX-17, fee 790 code 012, fingerprints. Padrón registration explained.
• What is the official website for the Spain digital nomad visa?The official sources: the UGE for applications from Spain, your Spanish consulate for visas, and the BOE for the law. How to avoid lookalike sites.
• How long can Americans stay in Spain without a visa? (The 90/180 rule)US citizens can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area. How the rolling window works and why it matters for the nomad visa.
• Can Canadians apply for the Spain digital nomad visa?Yes. Canadians meet the same rules as Americans. Apply at the Spanish consulate for your province or online from inside Spain. What changes for Canadians.
• Spain vs Portugal vs Italy digital nomad visa: which is easiest?Side by side: income (€2,849, €3,680/month, ~€28,000/year), where you apply, permit length and the trade-offs for Americans.
• How do I know a visa agency is legit and not a scam?Red flags (guaranteed approval, 'official' branding, fees to private sites) and how to verify a Spanish lawyer's bar registration before you pay anyone.