Imagine getting tanned on a picturesque beach while wearing floral board shorts, holding piña colada in one hand and a laptop in another.

If this expeditionary vision excites you, the digital nomads’ club is your ultimate retreat. The more you can't wait for weekends to tick off your bucket list, the sooner you'll join. It brings a self-managed, flexible routine for leisure travelers and tech savvies.

However, digital nomadism isn't a glorious holiday break but a commitment to work, earn, and travel at the same time. That’s why every well-loved vacation spot will not suit it.

Speaking of excellent destinations for digital nomads, Spain ranks first. This jewel of Western Europe is an exquisite, economic, and exceptional place.

This comprehensive guide answers all questions a digital nomad Spain needs to know.

Table of Contents

Why is Spain an ideal destination for digital nomads?

A digital nomad is a remote worker as well as a travel enthusiast. To realize the freedom that comes with it, you must keep an eye on potential pitfalls – slow internet connection, unsupportive environment, or high wage dispersion.

However, digital nomads Spain don't encounter such problems. Three Cs are making Iberia a paradise for location-independent folks.

  • Climate

    Spain features pleasant weather conditions. Mostly, it remains cozy with mild temperatures and a lot of sunshine. It allows visitors to navigate the country hassle-free. The shoulder seasons especially make an enviable escape from tedious commutes.

    Its seaside towns and scenic islands are a cherry on the top!

  • Community

    Digital nomads Spain don't lock themselves into hotels. Instead, there are coworking spaces and café shops in every corner of the country.

    In exchange for refreshing sangria, getting high-speed Wi-Fi and the company of professionals isn’t a raw deal. Also, you can join Facebook groups to mingle with the sprawling remote community.

  • Culture

    Nomadic lifestyle fits into a welcoming destination, and Spain tops that list!

    Spaniards know how to treasure small moments. Their vibrant culture, flamenco music, and late mealtimes are a standard invitation for everyone seeking a Spain digital nomad visa.

    Since cuisine is a serious topic, tapas and paella are not-to-miss dishes.

What is the cost of living in Spain?

The cost of living and average income complement each other in an economy. However, remote workers face discrepancies due to location differences. Therefore, budget requirements should be first to get straight.

When we compare digital nomad-friendly countries, Spain emerges as the cheapest destination to live.

According to Numbeo, consumer prices in Spain are almost 26% lower than that of the UK. And the rent expense is 85% less than in the US.

Madrid is the only city to take a seat in Mercer’s 2020 Survey. It stands as the 87th expensive city globally, far below London, New York, and Paris.

Well, Spain has always been admired as one of the most affordable European countries. Now, couple it with first-rate amenities (free internet, public transport, sound infrastructure, comfortable lodgings) – you wouldn’t be surprised why there is an influx of expats.

A comfortable routine in Madrid costs €1700 for a couple , expats report.

So, even if digital nomads Spain choose the capital, they have enough savings to venture out. Furthermore, residing in smaller cities cuts down the significant expenses. So much so that well-established nomads are earning more than 50EUR per hour depending on their service and goodwill.

How to get a Spain digital nomad visa?

A number of EU countries govern a specialized visa policy for digital nomads. Although Spain is not among them, there are suitable options for Spain's digital nomad visa, i.e., non-lucrative.

  • Visa-free Entry

    If you belong to visa-exempt nations, you can enter Spain with just a passport. It includes the United States, Canada, Japan, and EU members. However, these countries will have to fill up the ETIAS Visa Waiver from 2022.

  • Schengen Visa

    Those who are unqualified for visa-free entry can get a Schengen Visa. This tourist visa allows a short stay of 90 days in Schengen countries. It covers 26 destinations from Finland and Norway to Greece and Spain.

  • Golden Visa

    It is the most popular option among expatriates and retirees looking for permanent residency. But you'll have to invest €500,000 in real estate to become eligible. You’ll get family residency after five years and citizenship after another five.

  • Non-lucrative Visa

    Let’s welcome the uncrowned king of Spain digital nomad visa choices. Non-EU citizens can apply for a non-lucrative visa at the nearest consulate. You'll be permitted a one-year stay with restrictions on local employment and public health care.

    Meanwhile, you can work remotely as long as your employer is not Spanish. But working for over a half calendar year will put you among taxpayers.

    This visa will be renewed twice for two years before granting the status of a permanent resident.

Can digital nomads Spain pay no taxes legally?

When it comes to taxation, mobile employees recline on a legal grey area. That’s why tax returns can be quite confusing for digital nomads in Spain and beyond.

Generally, nomads file returns on worldwide income in their homeland. Spain applies a 183 days rule. Anyone who lives in the country for more than 183 days within a year will be considered a tax resident. So, if you’re chilling with a non-lucrative visa, you may have to declare taxes on all your assets.

The Spanish General Directorate of Taxes recently declared a teleworker from the UK a tax resident. That digital nomad Spain was neither a citizen nor a worker of some native company.
Source: Case V0194/2021 (February 8, 2021)

In any case, make sure you’re a legally recognized figure. Get your personal and insurance documents checked at the airport. Also, deal with all clients via reputable financial institutions.

N26 is a virtual bank that has zero charges on ATM withdrawals. Additionally, PayPal is the premier platform to receive payments. Digital nomads Spain should carefully choose a banking option. Otherwise, they'd be stuck in a foreign land with a non-functioning card.

What are the top five places for digital nomads Spain?

Spain encompasses a breathtaking coastline and mountainous landscape. From historical landmarks to upbeat metropolitan charm, following are the five best places for your upcoming adventure.

  • Madrid

    Madrid is the capital city. And it is the home of numerous well-established digital nomads in Spain as well. It boasts sophisticated boulevards dotted with elegant parks and public spaces. There’s an airport too, making it perfect for your stay.

  • Barcelona

    If you want to blend a beach vacation with the bounties of big cities, Barcelona is waving at you! Whether you’re a fan of soccer or Gaudi’s artistry, this tourist’s hotspot is jam-packed with entertainment. Also, it hosts the nation's largest foreign-born and young population.

  • Seville

    This southwestern city is an enclave of history and culture. Gothic and Moorish architectures take you centuries back. In lively flamenco bars, nightlife evokes an unforgettable experience. But digital nomads Spain rather crash in one of the many coworking areas.

  • Valencia

    If you are budget conscious, then you must avoid the glamour of Madrid and Barcelona. However, it doesn’t mean that Spain digital nomad visa won’t bring those charismatic neighborhoods. Valencia is a laid-back alternative, thus, the next remote working capital.

  • Canary Islands

    This archipelago of volcanic isles – featuring black sand beaches against an idyllic backdrop – provides everything you dreamt of. Take your laptop above a muddy dune or under an aromatic pine. Entrepreneurs and freelancers recommend the islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma.

Take the rein: work & wander in Spain

Digital nomadism shakes off the monotonous lifestyle. It lets you harness different cultures, meet bohemian buddies, and live every moment.

Spain is a unique country with its energetic festivals and endearing people. Indeed, it is an ideal getaway to kick off this journey. But research all aspects before putting a lease on your home or saying farewell to your colleagues.

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