Why Americans Are Having Trouble Getting Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

In recent years, Spain has become a popular destination for digital nomads from around the world seeking a change of scenery and a better quality of life. However, despite the fact that Spain has introduced the new digital nomad visa to encourage remote workers to come and live in the country, many Americans need help to obtain this residency permit. 

Here are the 3 main reasons why Americans are having trouble getting the Spanish digital nomad visa:

 

  1. One of the main requirements for this visa is the social security certificate, which can be difficult for Americans to get from the US social security system.  The Spanish government is requesting this certificate which is viewed as proof of social security payments by the employer on behalf of the employee.  As this is a new requirement, not previously seen for other types of visas, there is a lot of confusion surrounding how to get this certificate.
  2. Another challenge for Americans is obtaining the necessary documentation to support their application. The application process can be complex and time-consuming, and applicants need to provide a range of documents, including proof of income, health insurance, and a criminal background check. The criminal background check must be issued by the FBI, and the document must be apostilled, which can be a lengthy and costly process.
  3. Finally, the Covid-19 pandemic has also affected the application process for the Digital Nomad Visa. Some Spanish consulates in the US have suspended in-person visa appointments or have limited capacity, which can lead to delays in the application process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Digital Nomad Visa is designed to make it easier for remote workers to live and work in Spain, Americans may still face some significant challenges when applying for this visa. It is important for applicants to carefully review the requirements and ensure that they have all the necessary documentation before submitting their application.

Consulting with a qualified immigration firm like Orience can also be helpful in navigating the application process.