What do you need for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa in 2026? The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) lets non-EU remote workers live in Spain while working for companies outside Spain.
Under the 2022 Startups Law (Ley 28/2022) you must show a genuine remote job or freelance client base, that the work can be done from anywhere, private health insurance, a clean criminal record, and stable income above the official threshold — a set multiple of Spain’s minimum wage, updated each year.
Reviewed by María Luisa de Castro, abogada (ICA Cádiz nº 2745) — CostaLuz Lawyers handles Spanish residency applications for remote workers, and has advised international clients since 2006.
The DNV was created specifically for people who earn abroad but want to live in Spain — a different profile from the non-lucrative visa, which forbids work. The trap most applicants hit is the “where does your income come from” test: the DNV is for remote work for non-Spanish employers or clients, with only a limited share allowed from Spanish sources.
What the DNV requires
- Remote work for non-Spanish companies. An employment or freelance relationship with businesses outside Spain; if you freelance, only a minority of your income may come from Spanish clients.
- A track record. Typically the employer/business has been operating for some time and your working relationship predates the application, plus a relevant qualification or professional experience.
- Sufficient income. Proof of stable earnings above the official threshold, which is set as a multiple of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI) and revised annually — we confirm the exact current figure for your application rather than rely on a number that changes.
- Health insurance and clean record. Full private health cover valid in Spain and a criminal-record certificate from your country of residence, legalised and translated.
The DNV is usually granted for up to three years (or applied for as a one-year visa at a consulate and then converted to a residence card in Spain), and it is renewable and can lead to long-term residence. Family members can be included, and holders may be able to opt into a special tax regime — worth planning alongside your wider residency options before you apply.
Planning a move to Spain as a remote worker?
Email marialuisa@costaluzlawyers.es and we will confirm the current income threshold, check your profile against the rules and prepare your DNV application — free written analysis. Clients since 2006; see our Google reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?
Non-EU remote workers — employees of non-Spanish companies or freelancers with mainly non-Spanish clients — who can prove a stable remote income, health insurance and a clean criminal record.
How much income do you need for the Spanish DNV?
Above an official threshold set as a multiple of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI) and updated each year. Because the figure changes annually, confirm the current amount for your application rather than an old number.
Can I work for Spanish clients on the Digital Nomad Visa?
The visa is designed for work with non-Spanish companies. Only a limited share of your income may come from Spanish clients, so freelancers should check their client mix before applying.
This article is general information, not definitive legal advice — immigration rules and thresholds change; confirm your case before applying. Reviewed by María Luisa de Castro, abogada (ICA Cádiz nº 2745).
Many digital nomad visa holders go on to buy property in Spain — see our complete legal guide to property investment due diligence for what to check first.
This content has been prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence and reviewed by María Luisa de Castro, a lawyer specialising in Real Estate Law and founder of CostaLuz Lawyers.
The information provided is general and indicative in nature. It should not be used as the sole basis for making professional, legal or investment decisions, and CostaLuz Lawyers assumes no responsibility for decisions taken solely on the basis of this content.
We always recommend personalised review by a qualified professional. For most of our services, initial personalised guidance is free of charge. Get in touch.
My name is Ahmed Al Araby, an Egyptian Film Director and Art Producer with more than 20 years of professional experience in documentary filmmaking, television production, commercials, and creative content.
I am writing to express my interest in relocating to Spain through a legal work residency or immigration pathway related to my professional field. I am looking for opportunities that would allow me to contribute my experience to Spanish media companies, production houses, streaming platforms, or creative organizations.
Throughout my career, I have led numerous documentary and media projects from concept to delivery, managing creative teams, production workflows, and storytelling for television and digital platforms.
I would appreciate any guidance regarding the most suitable immigration or work residency program for professionals in the audiovisual and film industry. I would also be grateful if you could advise me on available opportunities or the next steps in the application process.
My CV and portfolio are available upon request.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.
Kind regards,
Ahmed Al Araby
Film Director & Art Producer
Egypt
Dear Ahmed,
Thank you very much for your comment.
With your professional background, there may be several immigration options available to you, depending on your plans in Spain. These could include a work permit, a self-employed residence permit, or, in some cases, a Digital Nomad Visa if you will continue working remotely for clients or companies outside Spain.
The most suitable route will depend on your individual circumstances, so a personalised assessment is always recommended before starting the application process.
I will also contact you directly by email with further information about the options that may be be available in your particular case.
Kind regards,
María Luisa de Castro
CEO | CostaLuz Lawyers