Spain's Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) has gained significant popularity since its introduction earlier this year. Part of Spain's startup law, the DNV aims to attract new talent and investment. Before you jump on the bandwagon, however, consider the advantages and disadvantages of this visa.
In this blog post, we take a look at the pros and cons of the Spanish visa for digital nomads, as reported by The Local, so you can make a more informed decision.
Pros:
New path for non-EU citizens
The DNV offers non-EU citizens an alternative way to move to Spain. Before its introduction, options were limited to the non-lucrative visa, which didn't allow work, or the Golden Visa, which required a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate.
In-country application
Applicants can apply for the visa through the Spanish embassy or consulate in their home country. If they're already in Spain, they can also submit their application locally.
Five-year residency
Successful applicants who are initially granted a one-year visa can transition to a three-year residence permit upon arrival in Spain. This permit can be extended for an additional two years, allowing for a total stay of up to five years, if desired.
The path to permanent residence and citizenship
For those who wish to settle permanently in Spain and obtain Spanish citizenship, the DNV is a viable path.
Family Inclusion
The DNV allows applicants to include their spouse or domestic partner and dependent children in their visa application. Family members may join the applicant either simultaneously or jointly. However, additional financial proof is required.
Employment opportunities for partners
If a spouse or partner is included in the DNV application, they'll be granted permission to work in Spain.
Find the perfect accommodation in Spain
EU Travel
After obtaining the DNV, applicants can apply for a residence card such as the TIE, which allows them to travel freely within the European Union.
Explore more: Spain's Digital Nomad Visa: Your Questions Answered
Cons:
Complicated application process
Many applicants have reported long waits for responses, extensive document translation and apostille requirements, and additional supporting documentation beyond initial expectations.
High attorney fees
Given the complexity of the DNV application, many applicants feel compelled to seek legal assistance, resulting in high legal fees, ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 euros.
Challenges for remote workers
Applicants from certain countries, especially the U.S. and the UK, may have difficulty applying for the DNV if they're remote employees. This is because they must provide a certificate of social security coverage from their country of origin, which authorities in the U.S. don't currently issue for this type of visa.
Employer participation in social security
If you're employed by a company and your home country doesn't have a social security agreement with Spain, your employer must register with the Spanish social security system and cover your contributions. Convincing your employer to fulfill this requirement in another country can be an obstacle in getting your visa, especially if it's not necessary for your work.
Obligation to register as self-employed (Autónomo)
For self-employed individuals, the DNV application process is generally less complicated than for remote workers and employees. However, it does come with its own challenges. As a self-employed person in Spain, you must register as an autónomo and take responsibility for paying your own social security contributions, which is among the highest in Europe, amounting to over €300 per month in addition to taxes.
Limitation on Spanish clients' income:
If more than 20% of your income comes from Spanish clients, you aren't eligible to apply for the DNV.
Proof of income requirements
Applicants must prove a minimum income of €2,520 per month or €30,240 per year. You'll also need to budget for expenses such as social security contributions, taxes, legal fees, any private health insurance, and living expenses.
Not eligible for recent residents
If you have continuously resided in Spain within the last five years prior to your DNV application, you aren't eligible to apply for the visa. Also, if you already have a residence in Spain and want to transfer to the DNV, you don't qualify.
The bottom line is that the Spanish digital nomad visa offers numerous opportunities for non-EU citizens who want to work in the country. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
With the visa, as discussed, you can live in Spain, for example, travel within the EU and bring family members. However, the complex application process, high legal fees, and challenges present significant hurdles for remote workers or individuals with Spanish client income.
In addition, self-employed individuals must contend with the autónomo system and high social security costs. Careful consideration of financial requirements, income sources, and eligibility requirements is critical to determine if DNV is right for your goals and circumstances.
Are you a digital nomad looking for a new destination to explore? Then we believe you can find your ideal accommodation on Flatio.
Find the perfect accommodation in Malaga
Browse our listings in over 300 destinations in Europe and beyond, most of which are deposit-free and meet the unique needs of remote workers, such as fast Wi-Fi.
Looking forward to seeing you on Flatio. Being your search HERE!
