Digital nomad working remotely in Spain with laptop by the Mediterranean coast, Spanish flag in background

Why Spain launched the digital nomad visa

The world has changed. More people than ever are working remotely, and Spain is one of the latest countries to introduce a digital nomad visa. For expats from the UK, Netherlands and across Europe, this visa allows you to live in Spain legally while working for foreign companies or as a freelancer.

If you dream of combining work and Mediterranean lifestyle, the Spain digital nomad visa might be your gateway.

What is the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?

Introduced in 2023 under Spain’s Startup Law, the digital nomad visa allows foreigners to live in Spain while working remotely for companies abroad or as independent freelancers.

  • Initial validity: 1 year (renewable up to 5 years).
  • For non-EU citizens (UK post-Brexit, USA, etc.).
  • For EU/EEA citizens, the process is different (they don’t need this visa, but may need to register residency).

✅ Who is eligible? (Requirements 2025)

To qualify for the Spain digital nomad visa, you must:

  • Prove you are employed by a foreign company (at least 3 months before applying) OR be a freelancer with clients outside Spain.
  • Have a minimum monthly income (around €2,200 per month or €25,000/year).
  • Show you have at least 1 year of work experience or a university degree.
  • Provide proof of clean criminal record in the last 5 years.
  • Obtain health insurance valid in Spain.

💶 Taxes for digital nomads in Spain

One of the biggest attractions is Spain’s special tax regime (Beckham Law) for digital nomads:

  • Pay a flat 24% tax on income up to €600,000.
  • Applies for up to 6 years.
  • Much lower than standard Spanish tax rates (which can reach 47%).

📑 How to apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa

  1. Prepare documents: work contract, proof of income, degree, criminal record, insurance.
  2. Apply at Spanish consulate in your home country OR directly in Spain with a tourist visa.
  3. Approval time: usually 20–45 days.
  4. Residency card (TIE) issued once approved.

🌍 Why choose Castellón as a digital nomad base?

Most expats immediately think of Barcelona, Madrid or Málaga. But Castellón has unique advantages:

  • Affordable housing (apartments from €500/month vs €1,200 in Barcelona).
  • High-speed internet and growing coworking spaces.
  • Less crowded, safer communities.
  • Mountains, beaches, and Mediterranean weather.

⚠️ Common mistakes to avoid

  • Applying without proof of income or stable contracts.
  • Forgetting private health insurance.
  • Believing the visa automatically gives access to all EU countries (it allows Schengen travel, but rules apply).

🛡️ How Sunny Spain Realty helps

At Sunny Spain Realty we:

  • Connect you with trusted lawyers specializing in digital nomad visas.
  • Help you find affordable housing in Castellón.
  • Guide you on healthcare, schools, and community integration.

✨ Conclusion

The Spain digital nomad visa is one of Europe’s most attractive options for remote workers. With lower taxes, Mediterranean lifestyle, and affordable housing in regions like Castellón, it’s the perfect balance of work and quality of life.

If you’re from the UK, Netherlands or beyond, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.


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