How Indians can apply for the Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa: Eligibility, income and long-term stay

Good news for Indians! In a major development, Spain has extended opportunities for non-EU professionals, including Indians, to legally live and work in the country as remote workers or digital nomads.

For those who don’t know, the Digital Nomad Visa (Visado de Nómada Digital or Telework Visa) is a residence authorisation for remote workers, freelancers, and skilled professionals. Let’s have a closer look at the this development:Who is eligibleThe visa is designed for third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens) who fulfil specific professional and financial criteria. This visa mainly targets highly skilled professionals, remote employees, independent consultants, and freelancers. Working remotely for non-Spanish firms, freelancers, a professional activity mainly serving clients abroad.A relevant university degree or at least three years of professional experience in their field.An employment or freelance relationship. Contracts or client agreements.Private health insurance No criminal recordDuration If the applicant applies from outside Spain via a Spanish consulate, they receive a one-year national visa which is valid across Spain.

After this first year, the visa holder must apply for a residence permit. If they apply from within Spain, they may directly obtain a three-year residence permission.How to get it renewed: The permit can be renewed to up to five years of legal residence as a digital nomad.Long-term residence may also eventually lead to permanent residency after five continuous years under Spanish law.Income requirementsThe government has linked visa eligibility to financial means so that applicants can survive.

Current official guidance states that applicants must show sufficient economic funds. As of the latest update:Applicants must show monthly income at least €2,760+ (INR 3,03,961).If there are dependents, additional funds are required.Tax ConditionsThe rules are that the international teleworkers may work exclusively for foreign employers; freelancers may also perform up to 20% of their work for Spanish clients without jeopardising visa conditions.Spain also provides tax incentives. Many remote workers with this visa may qualify for a special tax regime which can significantly reduce income tax on foreign-sourced earnings during the first years of residency. Spain also offers a high standard of living and well-designed healthcare and access to the wider Schengen Area.On this note, let’s have a look at must-visit attractions in Spain:

Sagrada Família, Barcelona: Sagrada Família in Barcelona is among the most famous landmarks in the world.

Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction for art lovers. Alhambra Palace, Granada: The Alhambra Palace is a work-of-art from the Nasrid dynasty. Its palaces, courtyards and gardens here reflect Spain’s Moorish past.Prado Museum, Madrid: Prado Museum is a must visit for art enthusiasts. It is among the world’s finest art museums housing work by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco and Titian,.Royal Palace of Madrid: Royal Palace of Madrid is a symbol of Spain’s monarchy.

Visitors can explore its grand halls and royal armoury.Seville Cathedral and La Giralda: Seville Cathedral and La Giralda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also the largest Gothic cathedral in the world housing the tomb of Christopher Columbus.Ibiza’s Old Town (Dalt Vila): Dalt Vila is a UNESCO-listed fortified old town with cobbled streets, Renaissance walls. The views of the Mediterranean Sea from here are simply awesome.