This is Why Our Family Decided to Pursue the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

(and the Steps I Wish I Knew Beforehand)

When our family first considered moving to Spain, the idea of a digital nomad visa seemed like the perfect fit. As parents who work remotely and value cultural immersion, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa offered an exciting opportunity to live in a beautiful country while continuing building our business online. However, navigating the process wasn’t as seamless as we had hoped. And if I’m honest, this is why it took me so long to begin the legal process of realizing my life long dream to move to Europe.

Looking back, there are so many things we wish we had known before diving in. In this post, I’ll share the steps we took, the lessons we learned, and why we believe hiring a lawyer and an insurance agent in Spain is non-negotiable. If you’re considering the digital nomad visa for yourself or your family, this guide will help you avoid the pitfalls we encountered and make your move much smoother.

Why Spain?

Spain is a dream destination for many remote workers, and for good reason. With its mild Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, incredible food, and family-friendly environment, it ticks all the boxes. The Digital Nomad Visa, introduced as part of Spain’s Startup Law, provides an opportunity for remote workers to live and work legally in the country while enjoying these perks.

For us, the appeal was clear: a slower pace of life, access to world-class education for our kids, and the chance to explore Europe while maintaining our careers. But the process of securing the visa was far more complex than the brochures suggested.

Key Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

Before diving into the details, let’s highlight why this visa is worth pursuing:

1. Long-Term Residency: The visa allows you to stay in Spain for up to five years, with the option to bring your family.
2. Tax Advantages: You’ll benefit from a reduced tax rate of 15% for the first four years, provided you meet the requirements.
3. Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependents can be included in your application, making it a great option for families.
4. EU Access: Living in Spain provides easy access to travel across the European Union.

Steps to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

Here’s a breakdown of the steps we took, along with tips we wish we had known from the start:

1. Determine Eligibility for the digital nomad visa in Spain

To qualify, you must:

• Work remotely for a company outside of Spain or operate a remote business.
• Prove you’ve been employed for at least three months and that your company allows remote work.
• Earn at least 200% of the Spanish minimum wage (roughly €2,520/month in 2023).

Tip: Double-check the income requirement, as it may vary depending on family size.

2. Gather the Required Documents

Some essential documents include:

• A valid passport
• Proof of remote employment or business ownership
• Proof of income meeting the minimum requirement
• Criminal background check, apostilled and translated into Spanish
• Health insurance policy from a Spanish provider

What I Wish I Knew: Apostille and translation timelines can be unpredictable. Start this process as early as possible.

3. Secure a Health Insurance Policy and ensure your digital nomad visa for Spain application goes as smooth as possible

One of the visa’s key requirements is private health insurance from a Spanish provider. This was a big deal for us because coming from the US where insurances are so complex, we wanted to make sure we understood everything before committing. Our lawyers recommended THE BEST insurance brokers in Spain, and I can’t begin to tell you how glad I am I went with Gidea Insbrok. This policy must offer full coverage, including hospital stays, without copayments.

What makes health insurance in Spain so wildly amazing, is that once you pay your insurance fee, everything is covered: no co-payments, or extra hidden fees etc.

Our Experience: We worked with Gide Insbrok, who made the process incredibly easy. Our agents walked us through the requirements and ensured our policy met all visa criteria. They sent a form ( which you’ll get to directly from clicking HERE) and afterwards guided me every step of the way. Most importantly, they are familiar with US insurances, and with visa requirements so that you don’t end up getting the wrong thing. If you need a reliable insurance agent in Spain, I highly recommend them. Their support team is excellent, we absolutely loved all they’ve done to help us make this process less of a headache.

4. Hire a Lawyer if you’re serious about getting the digital nomad visa for Spain

This step is where we learned the hard way. The application process involves legal intricacies that can be overwhelming, especially when navigating a foreign bureaucracy. Hiring a lawyer familiar with Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa saved us time, stress, and potential mistakes.

I realized after starting our process with Jessica from Carbray International that: 1- I’d never moved forward with the process of applying for a visa abroad because eberytime I started, the complexities of legal forms was too overwhelming. 2- once you have a lawyer, there is almost nothing that can’t be worked out. If you are confused, have a complex case, don’t know how to make sure all the requirements are met, or have a family coming with you: GET A LAWYER. Trust me when I tell you their fee is worth it a million times over.

Why It’s Essential: Our lawyer Jessica ( from Carbray International) helped us:

• Ensure all documents were correct and complete.
• Communicate with Spanish authorities on our behalf.
• Navigate last-minute changes to regulations ( this almost made me quit the process all together and had I not had Jessica and her team, I would have not been able to finish our visa process).

If you’re looking for legal assistance, I can’t recommend [Your Lawyer’s Name Here] enough.

5. Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted either at a Spanish consulate in your home country or within Spain if you’re already there on a tourist visa. The processing time varies but generally takes 20-60 days. I highly suggest applying from within Spain because then you are granted 3 years for your first residency permit instead of 1.

Tip: Applying from within Spain may expedite the process, but ensure your tourist visa doesn’t expire while waiting. I submitted my application on the LAST DAY of my 90 day Schengen visa limit, again because lawyers know what they’re doing- I would’ve never been able to do this on my own.

6. Prepare for Your Move

Once your visa is approved, you’ll need to:

• Apply for a TIE (foreign identity card) within 30 days of arrival.
• Register your address in Spain.
• Enroll your kids in school, if applicable.

Lessons We Learned (the Hard Way)

1. Start Early

The process takes time, especially when dealing with apostilles, translations, and insurance policies. Starting early will save you a lot of stress.

2. Double-Check Requirements

Visa requirements can vary slightly by consulate, so verify the specific documents needed for your application.

3. Don’t Skimp on Professional Help

Working with a lawyer and an insurance agent in Spain was the best decision we made. They ensured our application met every requirement and provided peace of mind during a stressful process.

4. Be Patient

Spanish bureaucracy moves at its own pace. Delays are common, so try to stay flexible and patient.

Why Families Should Consider the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

The Digital Nomad Visa isn’t just for solo travelers. It’s an incredible option for families seeking a new lifestyle. Spain offers:

• Affordable childcare and education options.
• A warm, welcoming culture for children.
• Opportunities for immersive language learning.
• A safe environment with a high quality of life.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain was one of the best decisions our family has made, but it came with challenges we weren’t fully prepared for. By sharing our experience, I hope to make your journey smoother and stress-free.

If you’re considering this visa, my top advice is to invest in a knowledgeable lawyer and insurance agent. Carbray International and Gidea Insbrok were invaluable to us, and I’m confident they can help you too.

Spain has so much to offer families, from vibrant cities to serene coastal towns. With the right preparation, the Digital Nomad Visa can be your ticket to a new and fulfilling adventure.

If you have any questions about the process or need recommendations, feel free to reach out in the comments below. I’m happy to help!