Why applications get refused
Generic employment letters, contracts that require attendance at an office, or new jobs that started less than three months before applying are the classic problems. So is social security: the authorities want to know how you will be covered while living in Spain.
The employer
The employer must be a company or group located outside Spain with at least one year of real and continuous activity. This is shown with official registration documents and evidence of activity, such as tax filings or accounts. Large and small companies can qualify.
The employment relationship
- An employment contract with at least three months of service before the application.
- A letter or clause allowing you to work remotely from Spain.
- Your role, salary and the expected duration of the remote arrangement.
Only foreign employers
As an employee, you can only work for companies located outside Spain. If you want to work for a Spanish company, you need a different type of permit. Freelancers have the 20% exception. See freelancers.
Employer of record (EOR) arrangements
Some remote workers are employed through employer-of-record services. The authorities look at who the actual employer is, where it is located and its activity. These arrangements must be documented carefully.
Social security
If your country has a social security agreement with Spain, a certificate of coverage may allow you to stay in your home system for a period. Otherwise, coverage in Spain is usually required. See social security.
Taxes
Once tax resident in Spain, employees often benefit from the special regime for inbound workers. See taxes and the Beckham regime.
Changing employer later
If you change employer while holding the permit, the new job must also meet the requirements. Keep the new contract and remote work letter ready for your renewal.
A practical example
A Mexican data analyst had worked for a US company for two years under a contract that mentioned office attendance in Austin. We obtained an amendment allowing remote work from Spain, documented the company's activity and his salary, and his residence permit was approved for three years. More information on the firm's main website: immigration law at Castell Abogados (in Spanish).
Get your file checked before you apply
Most refusals come from documents that do not prove what the law asks for. Send us your situation and an immigration lawyer will tell you what is missing before you submit.
Questions for remote employees
Can I get the digital nomad visa as an employee of a foreign company?
Yes, if the company has one year of activity, you have worked there three months and it allows remote work.
Does my employer need an office in Spain?
No. The employer must be located outside Spain.
Can I work for a Spanish company?
Not as an employee under this permit.
What if I changed jobs recently?
You need at least three months with the current employer before applying.