Everything remote workers need to know about Spain's Digital Nomad Visa in 2026 — the requirements, the application process and why the Costa del Sol remains a favourite base.
Spain Digital Nomad Visa 2026: Full Requirements & How to Apply Since Spain closed the property-based Golden Visa in April 2025, the Digital Nomad Visa has become the most common route we hear about from buyers who want to actually live in their Costa del Sol property rather than just holiday in it. It's built for remote workers and freelancers — not retirees or property investors — so check the Non-Lucrative Visa guide instead if you don't have active remote income.
Who qualifies Non-EU/EEA citizenship (EU citizens don't need a visa to live in Spain at all) A remote working relationship — employed or freelance — with a company or clients based outside Spain, in place for at least 3 months before applying A university degree, or at least 3 years of relevant professional experience A clean criminal record for the past 5 years Private health insurance or Spanish social security coverage The 2026 income threshold You need to demonstrate income of at least €34,188 a year (roughly €2,850/month) from your remote work. This figure is tied to Spain's minimum wage and is reviewed annually, so confirm the current figure before applying.
Where and how to apply From outside Spain: at the Spanish consulate covering your place of residence. From inside Spain (if already there legally, e.g. on a tourist stay): through the UGE-CE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos), Spain's dedicated unit for this visa, via its online Mercurio portal. Official information: Unidad de Grandes Empresas — Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration. Applying from inside Spain is generally faster — the official processing target is 20 business days, versus up to 90 days through some consulates. What you get An initial permit valid up to 3 years (or matched to your work contract if shorter), renewable, and it counts toward permanent residency and citizenship timelines. Family members (spouse/partner and dependent children) can be included on the same application.
One thing that catches people out You currently cannot switch directly from a tourist stay, Non-Lucrative Visa, or most other permit types into Digital Nomad status from inside Spain if you didn't enter specifically to apply for it in the right window — in some of these cases you need to leave Spain and apply at a consulate abroad, then re-enter on the new visa. Confirm your specific situation with an immigration lawyer before making any property or moving commitments based on timing.
FAQ Can I buy property in Spain before I have this visa? Yes — property ownership and visa status are entirely separate; see our guide to buying property in Marbella as a foreigner.
Does this visa let me work for a Spanish company? No — the income has to come from outside Spain. Working for a Spanish employer requires a different permit.
Is there a special tax regime? Digital Nomad Visa holders can often apply for Spain's "Beckham Law" reduced tax rate (broadly a flat 24% up to €600,000 rather than progressive rates up to 47%) for the first 6 years — get this confirmed by a Spanish tax adviser as part of your application, not after you've moved.
