So you’ve got to that point and it’s time to retire, anywhere between 62 and somewhere in your 70s. It depends for most of us on how well we’ve managed to put away a nest egg. According to the Synchrony website in 2025 the average American has managed to save between the ages 65-74 $609,230. But you don’t want to sell the family pile; the kids are getting that when you pass. Maybe you see yourself travelling the world like Indiana Jones or Philleas Fogg in an around the world in 80 days adventure thing. 

So here’s the good news, you can do just that!!! 

The E,U. allows non-residents to stay in any of the Schengen countries for 90 days out of every 180. 

WHAAAAT I hear you say??? 

How does that work??? 

So here is a brief explanation; 

Understanding the 90/180 Day Rule 

Firstly, it’s essential to grasp what this rule entails. As a non-European, you’re allowed to stay in the Schengen Area, including Spain, for 90 days within any 180-day period. This rule is designed to regulate short stays, primarily for tourism, business, or family visits. 

Calculating Your Days: The Non-Consecutive Dilemma 

The calculation of these 90 days isn’t as straightforward as it might seem, especially when your visits are non-consecutive. 

Each day of stay in the Schengen Area counts, even if it’s a part of a day. 

Arriving on a Friday and leaving on Saturday? That’s two days, not just one. 

To simplify this, consider using a Schengen calculator. These tools help track your days accurately, ensuring you remain compliant with visa regulations. Here are two reliable calculators: 

The "90-day rule" in Spain, which also applies to the entire Schengen Area, dictates that non-EU citizens can stay in Spain (or any other member country) for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. This rule applies whether or not a visa is required for entry. It's a limit on the total time spent within the Schengen Area, not just Spain, during that timeframe. 

Key points about the 90-day rule: 

180-day period: The 90 days are calculated retroactively, looking back 180 days from the current date. 

Schengen Area: The 90-day limit applies to all countries within the Schengen Area, not just Spain. 

Non-EU citizens: The rule specifically applies to individuals who are not citizens of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. 

Visa-free travel: For those who can enter visa-free, like US citizens, the 90-day allowance is within this rule. 

Overstaying: Exceeding the 90-day limit can lead to penalties, including fines and restrictions on future travel to the Schengen Area. 

Extending your stay: If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a Schengen visa or residence permit. 

How to calculate your stay: (I recommend you use the link address below) 

https://www.visa-calculator.com/ 

Example 

Please enter your last six months of travel dates to the Schengen countries in chronological order while you plan your next visits. 

Date of Date of Days of Days of Stay Last Day 

Entry Exit Stay in Last 180 to Stay 

01-08 15-08 15 15 29-10-2025 

2025 2025 

19-09 31-10 43 58 02-12-2025 

OK. You can stay for 32 days more, until 02-12-2025. 

If you re-enter the Schengen area on 27-12-2025, you can stay 47 days until 11-02-2026. 

If you re-enter the Schengen area on 30-01-2026, you can stay 90 days until 29-04-2026. 

You can use an online Schengen calculator or consult official resources like the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local embassy/consulate to track your days within the 180-day period. 

I STRONGLY RECOMMEND YOU USE A SHENGEN CALCULATOR TO TRACK YOUR STAYS. 

Staying longer than 90 days: 

If you need to stay in Spain or the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, you'll need to obtain the appropriate visa or residence permit. Options include: 

Long-stay visa: This is for stays longer than 90 days for specific purposes like work, study, or family reunification. 

Residence permit: This allows you to live in Spain for a longer period, often tied to a specific purpose and requiring specific conditions to be met. 

27 September 2025|Americans moving to Spain

In fact you cannot apply for this visa from within Spain it must be filed from the USA.

You must apply through the Spanish consulate or BLS Visa service for Spain that serves your region of legal residence in the US. The application must be submitted in person. 

1. Identify your consulate: Find the Spanish consulate or BLS service center that serves your area of the US. Many Spanish Consulates now use BLS International for processing visa applications. You must make an appointment through the BLS International website for the specific consulate or visa application center that serves your residential area. For example, to apply for a visa from the Los Angeles Consulate, you would book an appointment through the BLS site for Los Angeles. 

Important Note: Honorary Consulates are not authorized to process visa applications. You must apply through one of the main general consulates and their associated BLS service centers, based on your residency. 

2.  Check the website: Visit the official website of your regional consulate or BLS to review their specific NLV requirements, application forms, and appointment instructions. Services like My Spain Visa provide lists of consulates in the USA. 

3.  Gather documents: Collect all required documents for your application, which may include the visa application forms, proof of financial means, medical insurance, and a valid passport. 

4.  Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment, typically online or by email, with the consulate or BLS service. 

5.  Attend your appointment: Submit all original documents and attend the appointment in person at the designated location. 

6.  Wait for a decision: Processing times can vary, so be patient while the application is reviewed. 

7.  Follow up steps: If approved, you will receive the visa and then need to complete post-arrival steps in Spain, such as registering your residence and applying for your foreigner's identification card (TIE). 

Example documents for the non-lucrative residence visa (NLV) typically include a passport, completed visa application forms, passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements), a medical certificate, and a criminal record certificate. You may also need a private health insurance policy valid in the destination country and documents proving legal status, such as birth certificates.  

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least one year beyond the intended date of stay and have at least two blank pages. 
• Photographs: Recent, passport-sized color photographs with a light background. 
• Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy of your birth certificate. 
• Criminal Record Certificates: Originals from countries where you've resided for the past five years, potentially requiring legalisation and a sworn translation. To get criminal records for the "NLV USA" context, which implies a criminal background check for a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) application to Spain, you must request an FBI Identity History Summary check by submitting fingerprints. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) handles this, not the U.S. Embassy, but you can obtain the necessary fingerprint form (FD-258) from the U.S. Embassy website or a police station.

1. Request an FBI Identity History Summary: Visit the FBI website to start the process for your Identity History Summary. 
2. Obtain the Fingerprint Form (FD-258): Print the standard fingerprint form (FD-258) from the FBI's website or a U.S. embassy site. 
3. Get Fingerprinted: Visit a local police department or a police station to have your fingerprints taken on the FD-258 form. 
4. Submit Your Application and Fingerprints to the FBI: Follow the instructions on the FBI's website to submit the completed form and your fingerprints. You may be able to submit your request online to save time. 
5. Apostille and Translation: Once you receive your criminal record check, you will need to get it legalized with the Federal Apostille of the Hague Convention from the Department of State and then translated into Spanish by a sworn/certified translator. 

Financial Documents

• Proof of Financial Means: Documents, such as bank statements, showing sufficient funds to support yourself and your accompanying family members without working. 
• Bank Certificate: A document from your bank confirming sufficient funds. 

Medical & Health Documents

• Medical Certificate: A certificate from a doctor demonstrating you do not have any diseases that would prevent your entry. 
• Health Insurance: A private health insurance policy, often from a company authorized to operate in the destination country, that covers all risks and is equivalent to Spain's public health system. 

Application Forms 

• National Visa Application Form: The completed application form for the national visa.
• Non-working residence visa application form: A separate application form for the non-lucrative residence visa.

You can do all of this yourself, however if your in any doubt you should employ an agency to file for you. This will cost anywhere between €295 to €1,200 per person based on figures for 2025.

29 September 2025|Americans moving to Spain

Posted by Steven Grafflin expatspainlife.com 09/28/2025

As remote work becomes increasingly common across different parts of the world, you might be considering becoming a digital nomad. To support this lifestyle, Spain has introduced the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), allowing remote workers to live in one of Europe’s culturally richest countries.

CAN I APPLY FOR THE SPANISH DNV FROM THE USA yet again the short answer is yes, you can apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) from the USA by submitting your application at a Spanish consulate or through BLS. You should apply for the NIE at the same time as you apply for the DNV.

US citizens are eligible as non-EU/EEA citizens and can apply at the Spanish embassy or consulate in the US. You can also enter Spain as a tourist and apply for the residency permit from within the country before your 90-day stay expires. 

Updated: May 19th, 2025:

As of April 2025, there are now confirmed cases where U.S. W2 employees have been approved for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa (DNV). While this is a significant and exciting development, it’s important to note that approvals for W2 employees are still not 100% guaranteed, and the immigration office may change its stance at any time.

For U.S. nationals who are freelancers or business owners (1099 contractors), the application process remains straightforward. 

Obtaining the DNV is straightforward if you want to work from the Iberian Peninsula, but it’s important to follow a specific procedure. Here are the 6 steps to apply for a DNV for Spain.

Preliminary Requirements: 

Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the following requirements:

You must work for a non Spanish foreign company or be a freelancer providing services to non Spanish foreign clients.

The DNV is exclusively for non-EU applicants.

You must have sufficient and provide proof of income to support you, and your family if they're coming with you: 

To demonstrate sufficient income to support yourself while living in Spain use the following rules.  

For a Single Applicant: €2,762.66 per month (twice the monthly Spanish national minimum wage of €1,184). 

• For a Couple: €2,762.66 + €1,035 = €3,797.66 per month. 
• For Each Additional Adult: €1,035 per month. 
• For Each Child: €346 per month. 

How to Calculate Your Total Monthly Income

1. Start with your base amount: €2,762.66. 
2. Add amounts for family members: For each dependent, add the specified amounts. 
3. Example for a family of three: A main applicant, a spouse, and a child would need a total income of €2,762.66 + €1,035 + €346 = €4,143.66 per month. 

Key Considerations

• Spanish Minimum Wage (SMI): The minimum income requirement for the visa is directly tied to the national minimum wage, which increased in 2025. The Spanish minimum wage is €1,184  according to the Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación.
• Proving Income: You must provide documentation to prove you have a stable and consistent remote work income. 
• Family Members: Include all accompanying dependents in your application and adjust the income requirement accordingly.  

Required Documentation Gather the following documents:

Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least one year and has 2 pages clean of any stamps.

Proof of Remote Employment: Work contract with a foreign company or proof of your freelance activities.

Proof of Income: Bank statements or tax documents showing your income.

Health Insurance: Private health insurance covering your entire stay in Spain.

Criminal Record Certificate: Issued by the FBI for the past five years. To get an FBI criminal record check (Identity History Summary), you must submit a request with your fingerprints and fee to the FBI CJIS Division. You can apply electronically via the Electronic Departmental Order (EDO) or by mail. The process requires providing your fingerprints on a standard FD-258 form, completing an application form, and paying a fee. The FBI's EDO portal is a faster option, processing requests in about 15 days, while the mail option can take several weeks.  

Application Form: Complete the corresponding visa application form EX-15 Check with the consulate or BLS for payment details, and the Tasa Modelo 790 038 form to pay the visa application fee if applying from Spain. 

Application Process in the USA.

Schedule an Appointment: 

Make an appointment at the Spanish embassy or consulate that serves your state. 

To find the correct Spanish consulate for your state, search online for "Consulados de España en Estados Unidos" or visit the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación) to find an official list of consulates and their respective consular districts by state.

Prepare Documentation: 

Ensure you have all the documents ready and in the required format.

Pay the Application Fee: Check with the embassy or consulate for the current fee and accepted payment methods.

Submit the Application by attending the appointment and submitting all the documentation. 

The Evaluation Process

Your documents will be reviewed by the authorities and In some cases, an interview may be required.

Decision and Visa Issuance. The process usually takes approximately three weeks.

At which time you will receive a notification of the decision. If approved, the DNV will be issued.

Upon arrival in Spain, you will receive your visa and must register at the Foreigners' Office in Spain to obtain your Foreigner Identification Card (TIE).

Then you will be required to register for the Census Registration otherwise known as the Padron, register at ayuntamiento, or the town hall, of your place of residence.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a Digital Nomad Visa and enjoy living and working in Spain.Explore the range of services we offer, including data analysis, market research, and trend forecasting. Find out how we can help your business succeed.

29 September 2025|Americans moving to Spain

Posted by Steven Grafflin expatspainlife.com 09/28/2025

As remote work becomes increasingly common across different parts of the world, you might be considering becoming a digital nomad. To support this lifestyle, Spain has introduced the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), allowing remote workers to live in one of Europe’s culturally richest countries.

CAN I APPLY FOR THE SPANISH DNV FROM THE USA yet again the short answer is yes, you can apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) from the USA by submitting your application at a Spanish consulate or through BLS. You should apply for the NIE at the same time as you apply for the DNV.

US citizens are eligible as non-EU/EEA citizens and can apply at the Spanish embassy or consulate in the US. You can also enter Spain as a tourist and apply for the residency permit from within the country before your 90-day stay expires. 

Updated: May 19th, 2025:

As of April 2025, there are now confirmed cases where U.S. W2 employees have been approved for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa (DNV). While this is a significant and exciting development, it’s important to note that approvals for W2 employees are still not 100% guaranteed, and the immigration office may change its stance at any time.

For U.S. nationals who are freelancers or business owners (1099 contractors), the application process remains straightforward. 

Obtaining the DNV is straightforward if you want to work from the Iberian Peninsula, but it’s important to follow a specific procedure. Here are the 6 steps to apply for a DNV for Spain.

Preliminary Requirements: 

Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the following requirements:

You must work for a non Spanish foreign company or be a freelancer providing services to non Spanish foreign clients.

The DNV is exclusively for non-EU applicants.

You must have sufficient and provide proof of income to support you, and your family if they're coming with you: 

To demonstrate sufficient income to support yourself while living in Spain use the following rules.  

For a Single Applicant: €2,762.66 per month (twice the monthly Spanish national minimum wage of €1,184). 

• For a Couple: €2,762.66 + €1,035 = €3,797.66 per month. 
• For Each Additional Adult: €1,035 per month. 
• For Each Child: €346 per month. 

How to Calculate Your Total Monthly Income

1. Start with your base amount: €2,762.66. 
2. Add amounts for family members: For each dependent, add the specified amounts. 
3. Example for a family of three: A main applicant, a spouse, and a child would need a total income of €2,762.66 + €1,035 + €346 = €4,143.66 per month. 

Key Considerations

• Spanish Minimum Wage (SMI): The minimum income requirement for the visa is directly tied to the national minimum wage, which increased in 2025. The Spanish minimum wage is €1,184  according to the Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación.
• Proving Income: You must provide documentation to prove you have a stable and consistent remote work income. 
• Family Members: Include all accompanying dependents in your application and adjust the income requirement accordingly.  

Required Documentation Gather the following documents:

Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least one year and has 2 pages clean of any stamps.

Proof of Remote Employment: Work contract with a foreign company or proof of your freelance activities.

Proof of Income: Bank statements or tax documents showing your income.

Health Insurance: Private health insurance covering your entire stay in Spain.

Criminal Record Certificate: Issued by the FBI for the past five years. To get an FBI criminal record check (Identity History Summary), you must submit a request with your fingerprints and fee to the FBI CJIS Division. You can apply electronically via the Electronic Departmental Order (EDO) or by mail. The process requires providing your fingerprints on a standard FD-258 form, completing an application form, and paying a fee. The FBI's EDO portal is a faster option, processing requests in about 15 days, while the mail option can take several weeks.  

Application Form: Complete the corresponding visa application form EX-15 Check with the consulate or BLS for payment details, and the Tasa Modelo 790 038 form to pay the visa application fee if applying from Spain. 

Application Process in the USA.

Schedule an Appointment: 

Make an appointment at the Spanish embassy or consulate that serves your state. 

To find the correct Spanish consulate for your state, search online for "Consulados de España en Estados Unidos" or visit the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación) to find an official list of consulates and their respective consular districts by state.

Prepare Documentation: 

Ensure you have all the documents ready and in the required format.

Pay the Application Fee: Check with the embassy or consulate for the current fee and accepted payment methods.

Submit the Application by attending the appointment and submitting all the documentation. 

The Evaluation Process

Your documents will be reviewed by the authorities and In some cases, an interview may be required.

Decision and Visa Issuance. The process usually takes approximately three weeks.

At which time you will receive a notification of the decision. If approved, the DNV will be issued.

Upon arrival in Spain, you will receive your visa and must register at the Foreigners' Office in Spain to obtain your Foreigner Identification Card (TIE).

Then you will be required to register for the Census Registration otherwise known as the Padron, register at ayuntamiento, or the town hall, of your place of residence.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a Digital Nomad Visa and enjoy living and working in Spain.Explore the range of services we offer, including data analysis, market research, and trend forecasting. Find out how we can help your business succeed.

If your moving to Spain as an Expat from the USA you will most likely need a visa, unless you have access to claiming a Spanish passport, I will cover this in another blog. 

The visa required for Spain depends on the purpose purpose and duration of your trip. For short stays (under 90 days)  there is no visa required. For stays longer than 90 days or specific purposes like studying or working, a different type of national visa is required.There are three basic visas which are the Non Lucrative (NLV), the Digital Nomad (DNV) of a Student Visa if you are intending to live in Spain. 

The other option is you can stay for up to 90 days in 180 on a rolling pattern basis.So lets take them in order, first the NLV is for those of us that do not intend to work in Spain, you are probably retired and have enough savings to cover the financial requirements (You can find all the relevant information in either our blog about the NLV or on the visa page). 

This visa can be exchanged to a Self Employed Visa or Entrepreneur Visa after 12 months if you see a business opportunity.  The DNV is for those of us who intend to work in Spain to cover the financial requirements of doing so (You can find information about this in our blog or on the visas page). Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa in early 2023 to attract international talent. 

To qualify for the Spanish visa, applicants must demonstrate an ongoing professional relationship with a foreign company or clients, have a university degree or equivalent experience, and meet a minimum income requirement.The Student Visa is exactly what it says, you MUST be enrolled in full time education for the term of the visa at an accredited place of learning . You need to submit a completed visa application form, passport, proof of admission to an accredited institution, proof of sufficient financial means, and public or private health insurance to the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.

A digital nomad visa is a residence permit that enables non-EU citizens to legally live and work remotely from another country for a foreign employer or clients, rather than a local company. 
For example, Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa in early 2023 to attract international talent. To qualify for the Spanish visa, applicants must demonstrate an ongoing professional relationship with a foreign company or clients, have a university degree or equivalent experience, and meet a minimum income requirement. This visa offers long-term residency and can lead to permanent residency and even citizenship after several years of living in the country.  

The Key Aspects of the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa:

• Purpose: It allows non-EU/EEA citizens to reside and work in Spain while remaining employed by or freelancing for businesses outside of Spain. 
  
• eligibility: Applicants generally need to have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or a minimum of three years of professional experience in their field, and must prove a stable, long-term professional relationship with a foreign entity. 
• Duration: The visa is initially granted for one year but can be converted into a three-year residence permit, extendable for an additional two years, for a total of five years. 
• Income Requirement: Applicants must show a minimum income, for instance, €2,762 per month in 2025. 
• Family Members: Spouses and dependent children can also apply to join the visa holder. 
• Tax Benefits: The visa allows for potential tax advantages, including qualifying for the "Beckham Law" (under certain conditions) which offers a flat tax rate on Spanish-sourced income. 
• Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years of residency, digital nomads can apply for permanent residency in Spain. 
• Spanish Clients: Unlike some other visas, up to 20% of a freelancer's income can come from Spanish clients. 
  
• How to Apply (General Steps).

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the professional and financial requirements. 
2. Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents, such as proof of professional experience, income, and your company's standing. 
3. Apply at the Spanish Consulate: You must apply for the visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence. 
4. Convert to a Residence Permit: Once in Spain, you can convert the initial visa into a longer-term residence permit. 

Which Visa do I need22 September 2025|Americans moving to Spain about some of our recent projects and success stories, and learn how we have helped other businesses like yours achieve their goals.

While it is possible to make this change this is not a straight forward process, we would strongly recommend you to seek professional advice from an immigration professional.

Spain has become a top choice for remote workers and expatriates looking for a lively lifestyle and good living conditions. The country’s rich culture, pleasant weather, and well-developed infrastructure make it an attractive place for people who work remotely or want to stay long-term. It is possible for Americans living in Spain on a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) to switch to a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV). The transition, however, requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and following a prescribed application process. Both visas serve different purposes, so understanding the requirements and benefits of each is crucial for a successful switch.

Let's see what the main differences are between the two visas:

• Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): This visa is meant for individuals with enough financial resources who do not plan to work or engage in any economic activities within Spain.
• Digital Nomad Visa (DNV): This visa is specifically designed for remote workers employed by foreign companies or freelancers earning stable income from abroad. It allows them to legally work remotely while residing in Spain.

So perhaps you're not ready to retire but want to make the move from the USA to Spain. You have asked the question "CAN I CHANGE MY RESIDENCY STATUS IN SPAIN". The answer is yes, you can switch from a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) to a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) while in Spain, as long as you can meet all the requirements for the NLV and are currently in the country with a valid residence permit. 

The process involves applying for an in-country permit modification rather than a new application from abroad. You must provide all necessary documentation, such as proof of sufficient financial means, private health insurance, and clean criminal records. 

Steps to switch from DNV to NLV

• Meet the NLV requirements: Ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependant family without working in Spain, as the NLV is "non-lucrative". For 2025, the required amount is €28,800 per year for the main applicant, plus an additional €7,200 for each dependent family member. 
• Gather ALL necessary documents:
  • NLV National Visa Application form, the form Ex-01 and form 790-052 for paying the residence permit fee. 
  • Original passport 
  • A recent, passport-sized photograph with a white background 
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements, tax returns, etc.) 
  • A private health insurance policy from a Spanish-authorized company 
  • A medical certificate confirming you do not have any diseases that would prevent entry into Spain 
  • Criminal record certificates from all countries where you have lived for the past five years, properly legalized or apostilled and with sworn translations if necessary 
• Submit the application: Apply for the modification of your residency permit within Spain. Since you already hold a Spanish residence permit (DNV), you are eligible to apply from within the country. 
• Be prepared for the process: The process is not automatic. You will need to present a strong case, as the Spanish authorities will review your application to ensure you meet all the criteria for the new visa. 

Key considerations

• Financial proof: It is crucial to clearly demonstrate the source of your funds, as authorities may question large, unexplained sums in your bank account. 
• Timing: Ensure your DNV is still valid when you submit the NLV application. 
• Professional advice: While this information is a helpful guide, it's always a good idea to consult with an immigration lawyer or expert to ensure all requirements are met and to navigate the specific process for your situation.ur moving to Spain as an Expat from the USA you will most likely need a visa, unless you have access to claiming a Spanish passport, I will cover this in another blog. 
  

The visa required for Spain depends on the purpose purpose and duration of your trip. For short stays (under 90 days)  there is no visa required. For stays longer than 90 days or specific purposes like studying or working, a different type of national visa is required.There are three basic visas which are the Non Lucrative (NLV), the Digital Nomad (DNV) of a Student Visa if you are intending to live in Spain. 

The other option is you can stay for up to 90 days in 180 on a rolling pattern basis.So lets take them in order, first the NLV is for those of us that do not intend to work in Spain, you are probably retired and have enough savings to cover the financial requirements (You can find all the relevant information in either our blog about the NLV or on the visa page). 

This visa can be exchanged to a Self Employed Visa or Entrepreneur Visa after 12 months if you see a business opportunity.  The DNV is for those of us who intend to work in Spain to cover the financial requirements of doing so (You can find information about this in our blog or on the visas page). Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa in early 2023 to attract international talent. 

To qualify for the Spanish visa, applicants must demonstrate an ongoing professional relationship with a foreign company or clients, have a university degree or equivalent experience, and meet a minimum income requirement.The Student Visa is exactly what it says, you MUST be enrolled in full time education for the term of the visa at an accredited place of learning . You need to submit a completed visa application form, passport, proof of admission to an accredited institution, proof of sufficient financial means, and public or private health insurance to the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.

A digital nomad visa is a residence permit that enables non-EU citizens to legally live and work remotely from another country for a foreign employer or clients, rather than a local company. 
For example, Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa in early 2023 to attract international talent. To qualify for the Spanish visa, applicants must demonstrate an ongoing professional relationship with a foreign company or clients, have a university degree or equivalent experience, and meet a minimum income requirement. This visa offers long-term residency and can lead to permanent residency and even citizenship after several years of living in the country.  

The Key Aspects of the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa:

• Purpose: It allows non-EU/EEA citizens to reside and work in Spain while remaining employed by or freelancing for businesses outside of Spain. 
  
• eligibility: Applicants generally need to have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or a minimum of three years of professional experience in their field, and must prove a stable, long-term professional relationship with a foreign entity. 
• Duration: The visa is initially granted for one year but can be converted into a three-year residence permit, extendable for an additional two years, for a total of five years. 
• Income Requirement: Applicants must show a minimum income, for instance, €2,762 per month in 2025. 
• Family Members: Spouses and dependent children can also apply to join the visa holder. 
• Tax Benefits: The visa allows for potential tax advantages, including qualifying for the "Beckham Law" (under certain conditions) which offers a flat tax rate on Spanish-sourced income. 
• Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years of residency, digital nomads can apply for permanent residency in Spain. 
• Spanish Clients: Unlike some other visas, up to 20% of a freelancer's income can come from Spanish clients. 
  
• How to Apply (General Steps).

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the professional and financial requirements. 
2. Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents, such as proof of professional experience, income, and your company's standing. 
3. Apply at the Spanish Consulate: You must apply for the visa at the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence. 
4. Convert to a Residence Permit: Once in Spain, you can convert the initial visa into a longer-term residence permit. 

Which Visa do I need22 September 2025|Americans moving to Spain about some of our recent projects and success stories, and learn how we have helped other businesses like yours achieve their goals.