Do you work from home? Why not make things exciting and work from home in Spain?
Could you work from home from Spain?
A digital nomad visa scheme enables you to work remotely overseas. Working remotely became a necessity for many of us during the pandemic lockdowns, and since then, many roles have turned fully remote or have at least introduced hybrid working. Now that borders have opened up, you can take your work laptop and pitch up in Spain. Digital nomad visas are a fantastic way to see the world and keep earning an income. You don’t have to save up or stop working to travel, a win.
Fifteen other European countries, including Croatia and Portugal, have a digital nomad visa scheme. As long as you fit a set of certain criteria, such as being able to cover the cost of living, you can stay employed by a company based in one country and live in another.
Late last year, after sixteen months and multiple amendments to the initial bill, Spain finally approved its start-ups law, Ley de Startups. It had cross-party endorsement. The law is aimed at encouraging foreigners to set up start-ups in Spain and remote workers to move there. Spain is hoping that this will enable them to be at the forefront of the digital economy, like England, France, and Germany.
What you need to know about the digital nomad visa:
Work from home life – sorted.
- The visa is open to anyone from the EU and non-EU countries (so British people can benefit).
- The visa allows you to work in the country for up to twelve months, but it can be extended to two years, and then five.
- There will be a reduction in Corporation Tax from 25% to 15% for start-ups, investors, and remote workers in the first four years.
- You must be a remote worker employed in a foreign company.
- Must have a minimum one-year contract with that same company.
- If you are a freelancer, you must be able to demonstrate that you are regularly employed by a non-Spanish client.
- Incomes received by Spanish companies must not exceed 20%.
- You must not have a criminal record.
- Demonstrate three years of prior work or related experience – could be a graduate degree or vocational training.
- Proof of health insurance.
- Finally, you must earn 200% of the monthly Spanish minimum wage, which equates to £24,999 (€28,000) per year.
These criteria might be too steep for some but if you meet them – then it is a fantastic way to simultaneously explore a new country and earn a living.
Would you like advice on moving to Spain? Download our guide.
