Spain Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements & Application 2026In this guide
Overview
Spain's digital nomad visa — officially the international teleworking visa — was introduced as part of the 2023 Startup Act (Ley de Startups). It allows non-EU remote workers and freelancers to live in Spain while working for companies or clients located mostly outside the country. It can be applied for either from a Spanish consulate abroad (granting up to one year) or from within Spain (granting a residence permit of up to three years, renewable).
Who qualifies
You'll generally qualify if you are a non-EU/EEA national who is either employed by a non-Spanish company or a freelancer whose clients are mostly outside Spain. A common condition is that no more than around 20% of your income comes from Spanish companies. Many consulates also want evidence that you've worked with your employer or clients for at least three months, and that the company has been operating for at least a year.
Income requirements
The income threshold is linked to Spain's minimum wage (SMI). For 2026 the requirement is roughly 200% of the SMI, which works out to approximately €2,760 per month (around €33,000 per year). You'll need more if you bring family members — typically an additional percentage of the SMI for a spouse and each dependant.
Documents needed
Typical requirements include:
- Valid passport and application forms;
- Employment or freelance contract showing remote work;
- Proof that your employer/clients are based outside Spain;
- Proof of income and bank statements;
- Private health insurance valid in Spain with full coverage (no co-payments) — see our expat health insurance guide;
- Clean criminal record certificate, apostilled;
- Qualifications or three years of professional experience in your field.
How to apply
You can apply two ways:
- From abroad at a Spanish consulate, which issues a one-year visa you later convert to a residence card; or
- From within Spain as a tourist, applying to the UGE (the large-company and startup unit), which can grant a three-year residence permit directly.
The in-country route via the UGE is popular because it offers a longer initial permit and relatively fast processing.
The NIE and TIE
You'll encounter two key acronyms. The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreigner identification number, needed for almost everything from banking to contracts. The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical residence card you collect after approval. Getting your NIE early smooths the rest of the process.
Tax (Beckham-style regime)
A major draw of the Spanish nomad visa is access to a special tax regime — often compared to the “Beckham Law” — under which qualifying newcomers may be taxed at a flat rate on Spanish-source income (commonly cited at 24% up to a threshold) rather than progressive rates, for a limited number of years. Eligibility rules are specific and have conditions, so this is an area to confirm with a Spanish tax adviser. Our tax guide covers the general principles.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to earn for the Spain digital nomad visa?
Around 200% of the Spanish minimum wage, approximately €2,760 per month in 2026, with more required if you bring dependants.
Can I apply for the Spanish nomad visa from inside Spain?
Yes. You can enter as a tourist and apply through the UGE, which can grant a three-year residence permit directly — a popular route.
What is the Beckham Law and can nomads use it?
It's a special tax regime offering a flat rate on certain income for qualifying newcomers. Some nomad visa holders may be eligible, but conditions apply — confirm with a Spanish tax adviser.
Does the Spain digital nomad visa allow travel in the Schengen Area?
Holding a Spanish residence permit generally allows short-stay travel within the Schengen Area, subject to the usual rules. Always check current regulations before travelling.
