Moving to Spain as a digital nomad is a strategic decision that combines international mobility, legal planning, and tax optimization. Spain has established itself as one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for remote professionals thanks to its quality of life, advanced digital infrastructure, and a specific regulatory framework for international teleworkers.
However, relocating correctly requires understanding immigration requirements, tax implications, and the administrative steps needed to avoid mistakes that may cause delays, penalties, or additional costs. This guide clearly and systematically explains how to move to Spain as a digital nomad in 2026 and what you should consider before taking the step.
What it legally means to move to Spain as a digital nomad
A digital nomad is a professional who works remotely using technological means for companies or clients located outside the country of residence. Spain regulates this status through the Startups Law, which introduces a specific residence authorization for international telework.
It is essential to distinguish three key concepts to avoid administrative errors:
- Visa: authorization that allows entry into Spain from the country of origin.
- Residence authorization: permit that allows legal residence in Spanish territory for a specific period.
- Tax residence: tax status that determines where you must pay taxes.
Confusing administrative residence with tax residence is one of the most common mistakes when moving to Spain as a digital nomad. You may hold a residence permit without being a tax resident, and vice versa, depending on length of stay and economic interests.
Requirements to move to Spain as a digital nomad
Valid professional relationship
You must prove an employment or professional relationship with companies located outside Spain. This may include:
- Employment contract with a foreign company that allows remote work.
- Independent professional activity with an international client portfolio.
The relationship must be stable, demonstrable, and compatible with remote work. Occasional collaboration or sporadic income is not sufficient.
Minimum income requirements
Regulations establish a minimum income threshold linked to the minimum interprofessional wage. You must demonstrate sufficient recurring income to cover personal and, where applicable, family expenses. This income must be evidenced through contracts, invoices, or bank statements.
Private health insurance
It must be valid in Spain, without significant co-payments, and with full coverage for the entire period of residence. This requirement ensures that the applicant will not be a burden on the public healthcare system.
Clean criminal record
An official certificate is required from the countries where you have resided in recent years, duly legalized or apostilled as applicable.
Tax residence in Spain: when you start paying taxes
An individual acquires tax residence in Spain when at least one of the following criteria is met:
- Spending more than 183 days in Spanish territory during the calendar year.
- Having the main center of economic interests in Spain.
If tax residence is acquired, income tax is levied on worldwide income. If this criterion is not met, Non-Resident Income Tax may apply only to income obtained in Spain.
Prior tax planning is essential to avoid unexpected tax burdens. Reviewing double taxation treaties and income structures can make a significant difference.
Step-by-step process to move to Spain
1. Preliminary strategic assessment
- Analyze contract and income model.
- Determine potential tax impact.
- Define city of residence based on cost and lifestyle.
2. Document preparation
- Employment contract or proof of professional activity.
- Proof of recurring income.
- Private health insurance valid in Spain.
- Legalized criminal record certificates.
3. Visa or authorization application
This may be submitted through the relevant Spanish consulate or from within Spain if circumstances allow. Choosing the correct procedure depends on the country of origin and your current immigration status.
4. Procedures after arrival
- Obtaining the NIE.
- Registering with the local municipality.
- Opening a bank account.
- Tax registration if applicable.
5. Renewal and stability
The authorization must be renewed by demonstrating that the initial conditions are still met. Proper document organization facilitates smooth renewals.
Real costs of moving to Spain
Before relocating, you should calculate:
- Rent or housing.
- Health insurance.
- Taxes.
- Administrative expenses.
- Professional fees if you use specialized advisory services.
Cities such as Madrid and Barcelona have higher costs than others like Valencia, Málaga, or Alicante, but they remain competitive compared to Northern European capitals. Financial planning for the first six months is key to avoiding liquidity stress.
Common mistakes when moving as a digital nomad
- Applying for the wrong visa.
- Failing to analyze tax impact before relocating.
- Underestimating administrative timelines.
- Not reviewing contractual compatibility with Spanish clients.
- Entering Spain without prior banking planning.
Many of these mistakes lead to delays or subsequent adjustments that can be costly in both time and financial resources.
Strategic comparison with other European destinations
Spain competes with Portugal, Italy, or Greece in attracting remote talent. Its main advantages include:
- A specific legal framework for international teleworkers.
- Advanced technological infrastructure and solid digital coverage.
- Access to the Schengen area.
- High quality of life and favorable climate.
Choosing the right country depends on each individual’s professional, tax, and family profile. Spain stands out for combining a stable business environment with strong cultural appeal.
Final checklist before moving
- Demonstrable and stable income.
- Consolidated international contract or client portfolio.
- Adequate health insurance.
- Prior tax analysis.
- Complete and legalized documentation.
- Financial plan for the first months.
How Orience supports you through the process
Orience provides comprehensive advisory services for professionals who wish to move to Spain as digital nomads. Support includes feasibility analysis, document management, tax planning, and renewal assistance.
The goal is to ensure that the relocation is legally secure, tax-efficient, and aligned with the applicant’s professional objectives.
Conclusion
Moving to Spain as a digital nomad requires planning, regulatory understanding, and orderly execution. When the process is properly structured from the outset, Spain can become a stable base for developing your remote professional activity within the European environment.
The key is not only to obtain an authorization, but to design a coherent migration and tax strategy from day one.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to earn to move to Spain as a digital nomad?
You must exceed the minimum threshold required by current regulations, linked to the minimum interprofessional wage.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, provided you demonstrate sufficient additional income to support family members.
Do I pay taxes in Spain if I work for foreign clients?
If you acquire tax residence in Spain, you will be taxed on your worldwide income.
Do I need to register as self-employed?
It depends on your contractual model and professional structure.
What happens if I stay more than 183 days?
You may acquire tax resident status in Spain.