Why applications get refused
Many remote workers arrive in Mallorca in spring and look for a long-term rental while their visa-free stay runs out. Filing the residence permit early in your legal stay, with a complete file, avoids the stress of the 90-day limit.
Applying from Mallorca
If you are in Mallorca legally, for example as a visitor, we can file your residence permit online. The legal deadline to decide is 20 days and your stay is extended while it is processed. See apply from inside Spain.
After approval in Mallorca
- Padrón: register at the town hall of Palma, Calvià, Sóller, Pollença or wherever you live.
- TIE: appointment and fingerprints at the police for foreigners in Mallorca. See TIE card.
- Tax and social security: registration and, where relevant, the special tax regime. See taxes.
Where remote workers live in Mallorca
| Area | Why remote workers choose it |
|---|---|
| Palma (Santa Catalina, Old Town, Son Armadans) | City life, coworking spaces, cafés and services |
| Portixol and Molinar | Seafront, close to the centre |
| Calvià (Santa Ponsa, Bendinat) | International community and schools |
| Sóller and the Tramuntana | Mountain villages and quiet life |
| Pollença and Alcúdia | Northern bays and a slower pace |
Families in Mallorca
Mallorca has several international schools and Spanish public schools across the island. Your family can apply with you. See bringing your family.
Our Mallorca practice
We are a Palma law firm, and our English-language practice also covers the visa on Castell.law: Spain digital nomad visa, with more guidance for international clients settling in the Balearic Islands.
Housing
Long-term rentals in Palma and popular areas are in high demand. A rental contract is not a legal requirement for the permit, but you will need an address for the padrón.
A practical example
A Canadian product manager arrived in Palma as a visitor in March with her partner. We filed both residence permits in her second week, they were granted within the legal deadline, and we booked their TIE appointments and padrón registration in Palma. More information about our other islands: Ibiza and Menorca. 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 about moving to Mallorca
Can I apply for the digital nomad visa from Mallorca?
Yes, if you are in Spain legally you can apply for the residence permit from Mallorca.
Where do I get my TIE in Mallorca?
At the police office for foreigners in Mallorca, with an appointment.
Do I need a rental contract?
Not as a requirement for the permit, but you need an address to register at the town hall.
Are you based in Mallorca?
Yes. Our office is in central Palma.