If you are a non-EU citizen looking to relocate to Spain, you will be exploring available residency options. Two of the most popular choices are the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) and the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV). Both offer distinct advantages and limitations, catering to different personal and professional circumstances. Here's a breakdown of each visa to help you decide which option suits your situation best.
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The Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who want to live in Spain while working remotely for companies located outside of Spain.
Key Requirements
To qualify for the DNV, applicants must meet several conditions:
• Proof of employment or freelance work: You must demonstrate a minimum of three months of prior professional activity with a company (or companies) established for at least one year.
• Qualifications: Applicants must hold a relevant university degree or have at least three years of work experience in their field, all provable through official public work record documents and company certificates
• Remote capability: The work must be fully executable remotely.
• Income thresholds: The main applicant must prove an income of at least €2,763€ monthly (200% of Spain's minimum salary), with additional amounts for dependents.
• Social Security: Applicants must show valid Social Security coverage, either from their home country (if applicable) or through Spain.
• No criminal record: Applicants must provide a clean record from the past five years.
Benefits
1. Work flexibility: The DNV allows you to legally work for foreign companies while residing in Spain
2. Family inclusion: Spouses and dependents can accompany the primary applicant and obtain work rights in Spain.
3. Fast processing time: Applications are processed within maximum 20 working days and can be submitted both from Spain and through the Consulate
Challenges
1. High income threshold: The financial requirement may be prohibitive for some remote workers or freelancers.
2. Complex documentation: Applicants must provide extensive proof of professional activity, qualifications, business related documentation and Social Security arrangements.
3. Restricted work conditions: Your work must remain strictly remote, and changes to your professional situation must be communicated to authorities
The Non-Lucrative Visa
The Non-Lucrative Visa is ideal for individuals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any work or business activities. It suits retirees, those with significant savings, or individuals with passive income streams such as investments or rental properties.
Key Requirements
To qualify for the NLV, applicants must:
• Prove financial self-sufficiency: Applicants need an annual passive income or savings of €28,800 for the main applicant (400% of IPREM), plus €7,200 per dependent.
• Health insurance: Comprehensive private health insurance is mandatory for all applicants and dependents.
• Clean criminal record and medical clearance: Like the DNV, applicants must submit relevant certificates.
• Proof of accommodation: Some consulates may request a valid rental contract or property ownership documentation
The application process is handled through the Spanish Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. Once approved, applicants receive a three-month entry visa, after which they must apply for a 1-year residence card (TIE) upon arrival in Spain.
Benefits
1. Simplified requirements: There’s no need to demonstrate professional qualifications or employment, making this visa more accessible for retirees or individuals with passive income.
2. Freedom to invest: Although work is prohibited, you can invest in real estate, stocks, or other assets in Spain.
3. Family-friendly: Dependents can join the applicant and enjoy the same residency benefits.
Challenges
1. Prohibition on work: Unlike the DNV, the NLV does not allow the holder to work or conduct business activities in Spain.
2. Income requirements: While slightly lower than the DNV, the financial threshold still requires substantial resources.
3. Application and renewal process: The initial permit is valid for one year and can only be applied for through the Consulate, followed by two-year renewals, done in Spain. Processing time for each step can take up to 3 months.
Which Visa Should You Choose?
The best option depends on your personal and professional circumstances:
• Digital Nomad Visa: Perfect for remote workers or freelancers with a stable, high income from outside Spain. It offers the ability to work legally while living in Spain but requires meeting strict qualifications and income criteria.
• Non-Lucrative Visa: Ideal for retirees or individuals with sufficient passive income who do not need to work. It offers greater simplicity but prohibits any form of professional activity in Spain.
Both visas provide excellent opportunities to enjoy life in Spain, with options to include family members and eventually apply for permanent residency. If you wish help assessing your personal situation and advising which visa type is most suitable for realising your dream of living in Spain, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to consult you