Dreaming of living in sunny Spain? 2024 offers excellent opportunities through two special visa programs. The Digital Nomad visa and Startup visa have become breakthrough options for those planning to relocate to Spain. These programs are particularly attractive for IT professionals, remote workers, and entrepreneurs seeking residency in one of Europe's most livable countries.
Digital Nomad Visa: Detailed Requirements
Since January 2023, Spain has been actively issuing visas to digital nomads. The visa requires a stable income of at least €2,520 per month (200% of Spain's minimum wage). A key condition is that your employment contract must be valid for at least 3 months before application, and your employer must have been in business for at least one year. Freelancers need to demonstrate regular income and ongoing client relationships for the past 3 months.
The visa processing takes about one month when applying in Spain and up to 20 business days when applying at a consulate. The visa is valid for 3 years and can be extended for an additional 2 years. Importantly, income from Spanish companies must not exceed 20% of your total earnings.
Required documents include:
- Valid passport
- Proof of legal entry into Spain
- Criminal background check with apostille (if you've lived in other countries in the past 2 years)
- Health insurance with no deductible for the entire stay
- Proof of professional qualifications (diplomas, certificates)
Startup Visa: Specific Benefits for Entrepreneurs
The Startup visa offers unique opportunities for those planning to develop a business in Spain. Unlike the Digital Nomad visa, there's no strict minimum income requirement, but you need to present a viable innovative project or prove experience in the technology sector.
The application process takes 2-3 months and includes evaluation by a special commission. Residence permits are issued immediately for three years and cover the whole family. Most valuable is that this visa provides a direct path to permanent residency after 5 years and allows unrestricted work with Spanish companies.
Real Living Costs in Spain
The budget for comfortable living varies significantly by city. Here are the real figures for 2024:
- Apartment rental: €800-1000 in Madrid/Barcelona, €500-700 in smaller cities
- Utilities: €80-150 per month
- Internet and mobile: €40-60
- Groceries: €300-400 per person
- Health insurance: from €50 per month per person
- Public transport: €40-50 for a monthly pass
Practical Aspects of Moving
The relocation process to Spain includes several key steps. After receiving your visa, you need to:
- Obtain NIE (foreigner identification number) – takes 1-2 weeks
- Open a bank account – 1-2 days with NIE
- Set up health insurance – can be done in 1 day
- Register your residence (empadronamiento) – process takes about a week
Choosing the Optimal Path for Relocation
The choice between Digital Nomad and Startup visas depends on your professional plans. If you have stable remote work with income above €2,520, the Digital Nomad visa is the optimal solution. For those planning to develop their own project or actively collaborate with Spanish businesses, the Startup visa offers more opportunities.
Importantly, both visas allow you to bring family members: spouse/partner and children under 18. Family members face simplified requirements – they don't need to prove separate income, just family ties.
Looking Ahead: Life in Spain
Spain offers more than just sunny weather. The country features a growing tech sector, excellent work-life balance, and a welcoming attitude toward foreign professionals. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have thriving startup ecosystems and international communities.
🔍 Need help with relocation? Our experts are ready to provide a free consultation and help choose the optimal path for your move to Spain.
