Spain Digital Nomad Visa vs Spain Self-Employment (Autónomo) Visa

About Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers and freelancers employed by non-Spanish companies reside in Spain for up to five years. Applicants must show income of at least about €2,334/month (200% of the minimum wage, 2024), a year of relevant experience or a related degree, a work contract of 3+ months, private health insurance and a clean criminal record; up to 20% of income may come from Spanish clients. Government fees are about $160 with first-year costs of $5,000–$9,500; in-Spain applications carry a 20-day statutory decision window, faster than the consulate route. Family can join, with income add-ons of 75% of the base per adult and 25% per child. Holders may opt into the modified Beckham Law — a 24% flat rate on Spanish-sourced income up to €600,000 with foreign income largely exempt for up to six years — if not Spanish tax resident in the prior five years, filing within six months. Permanent residency comes after five years, but citizenship takes ten years and Spain does not allow dual citizenship with most countries. Direct employment by a Spanish company is not permitted.

About Spain Self-Employment (Autónomo) Visa

Spain's self-employment visa — commonly called the autónomo visa — allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain and carry out an independent professional or commercial activity on a self-employed basis. Applicants must present a credible business plan demonstrating that the intended activity is lawful in Spain, commercially viable, and of sufficient economic benefit to justify residence. Supporting evidence typically includes a detailed business plan, proof of relevant professional qualifications or sector experience, evidence of economic capital sufficient to sustain the activity during its launch phase, and private health insurance covering Spain without co-payments. The initial authorisation is granted for one year; it can be renewed for two-year periods. After five years of continuous legal residence, holders may apply for long-term EU residence, and after ten years (or two for nationals of certain Iberoamerican countries and former Spanish territories) they may apply for Spanish citizenship, subject to language proficiency (DELE A2 minimum) and renouncing their prior nationality in most cases. The application is submitted at the Spanish consulate with territorial jurisdiction over the applicant's habitual country of residence; once approved, the applicant must enter Spain within three months and register with the tax authority (AEAT) and Social Security as an autónomo within one month of arrival.