Spain Digital Nomad Visa Guide (2024)

Imagine going to the beach, swimming in the sea, and enjoying a glass of homemade sangria after a long and tiring workday. 

Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?

Luckily, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa from 2024 is here to make your dreams come true. This visa allows non-EU citizens to visit Spain while working remotely for foreign companies.

This guide will help you better understand everything about Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, including:

• Rules and procedures for coming to live and work in Spain as a digital nomad, 
• Benefits and drawbacks of living as a digital nomad in Spain, 
• Best destinations in Spain for digital nomads, and 
• Tips for living and working in Spain. 

Let’s get started!

Quick Digital Nomad Visa facts for Spain

Before we explain everything in detail about Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa program, let’s check out quick Digital Nomad Visa facts for Spain.

Spain digital nomad visa questions	Spain digital nomad visa answers
Does Spain have a Digital Nomad Visa?	Yes, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in May 2024.
Who can apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?	– Anyone of non-EEA/non-EU nationality employed by a company registered outside of Spain, who needs an internet connection to work. – Self-employed internet workers whose income comes from abroad or who have no more than 20% of income coming from Spanish-registered companies. – Anyone who meets the other criteria stated later in the guide under the subheading Who is eligible to apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?
How much does Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa cost?	From ~€79.04 ($88) up to ~€2,734 ($3,044) (the fees differ due to reciprocity)
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa length?	– 1 year (when applying from outside of Spain) – 3 years (when you’re already in Spain and applying for a Telework Residence Permit)
Minimum stay requirement?	Not specified
Possible to extend the visa?	Yes, up to 5 years through residence permits (renewed annually)
Minimum income requirements?	2x the minimum wage in Spain (SMI): €2,268 (~$2,527.73) per month
Processing time for visa application?	Around 10 calendar days
Can I apply for a Digital Nomad Visa with family members?	Yes, but only with your spouse and/or children

What to expect as a digital nomad in Spain?

According to the available data, you can expect the following as a digital nomad in Spain. 

Spain digital nomad visa FAQ	Spain digital nomad visa answers
Average Internet speed:	– Median download speed — 207.9 Mbps – Median upload speed — 148.6 Mbps
Best coworking space (highest Google rating and number of voters):	Betahaus | Coworking Barcelona (4.8 stars, 396 votes)
Friendly to foreigners:	Yes, people are sociable, respectful, and used to tourists
Most popular place for digital nomads in Spain:	Barcelona — it has been one of the main destinations for digital nomads for many years and locals are used to foreigners.
Weather in Spain’s most popular place for digital nomads:	– Average annual temperature — ​​16.5°C (61.7°F); – Coldest month average temperatures (January) — 6°C–14°C (42.8°F–57.2°F) – Hottest month average temperatures (July) — 19°C–27°C (66.2°F–80.6°F)  – Annual sunny hours: ~3,000 – Mild winters and summers, no large temperature fluctuations.
Type of climate:	Mediterranean, semi-arid, or warm-summer continental — depending on the region
Annual air quality average:	US AQI 41 (good quality, no health hazards)  PM2.5 — 2x the WHO annual air quality guideline value (good)
Average cost of living:	– Single person: €712.2 (~$792.89) per month (without rent) – Family of 4: €2,511 (~$2,795.4) per month (without rent)
Average coworking space cost:	~€200 (~$222.46)
Crime index:	36.29/100 (considered low)
Interesting fact for digital nomads:	Although Barcelona is still the most popular place for digital nomads, Malaga has become one of the new Silicon Valleys of Europe.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is intended for nationals from non-EU/EEA countries and it allows them to come to Spain and work remotely for non-Spanish companies.

However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t work from Spain if you collaborate with Spanish companies. As long as the income from Spanish companies doesn’t exceed 20% of your total income, your visa application will be approved. 

You can obtain Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa before entering the country or after arriving in Spain.

However, keep in mind that applying from within Spain’s borders is only accessible to people from countries that don’t require an entry visa to Spain. And, to be honest, most applicants for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa are those from countries that do require an entry visa.

If that’s your case, then you’ll have to apply for the visa before you enter Spain.

The good news is that the process of getting a Digital Nomad Visa is more or less the same regardless of whether you need an entry visa or not —  the only thing that will vary is where you apply from.

If residents of your country can enter Spain without a visa,  you can come to Spain and apply for a different type of document (from within Spain) called the Telework Residence Permit. This document is valid for 3 years. 

For all intents and purposes the Telework Residence Permit is the same as Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa. 

In contrast, for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa specifically, you must apply before entering the country, and this document is valid for only 1 year.

When it comes to your loved ones, don’t worry — they can come with you. As per official information from the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the following family members of the digital nomad can also obtain a family visa:

• The spouse or unmarried partner,
• Children and adult children who are financially dependent on the worker and who have not created a family unit of their own, and
• Relatives in the ascending line under the worker’s care.

While it’s not particularly difficult to obtain Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, there are a lot of required documents and some important limits which we will cover in the following sections.

What documents do I need to apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?

The list of required documents for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is extensive. You need several different types of documents, all of which we’ll go over in detail in the following chapters. 

Let’s start with the general documents, shall we?

General documents required for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

When it comes to standard, general documents, you need to prepare the following:

• A filled out application form,
• 1 recent color photograph (passport-sized, glued ​or clipped (not stapled) onto the visa application),
• An unexpired passport, that’s valid for the entirety of your stay in Spain,
• Copy of the page or pages of the passport that contain biometric data, 
• 2 free passport pages for the visa, and
• Foreign Identity Number (NIE): Certificate of Assignment of NIE.

It’s important to note that before doing anything else (including applying for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa outside of Spain), you are required to apply for a Foreigner Identity Number, called NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero).

The application process requires you to submit an EX-15 Application form (both the original and 1 copy). On it, you are supposed to indicate the economic, professional, or social reason for requesting an NIE number and explain the details in Spanish on the form itself.

You will also need to pay a $10 fee for the 790-052 form and complete it by following the instructions on the website. 

Apart from this, you are also required to submit: 

• The original and a copy of your valid passport, and
• Proof of residence in the Consular district.

For specific details on how to obtain the NIE, you can check out the official website.

Specific documents required for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

The specific documents that the Spanish government will demand to see before they allow you to live and work remotely in Spain are documents related to your: 

• Employment,
• Income,
• Criminal background,
• Health insurance,
• Social security coverage,
• Education and professional experience, and
• Other.

Proof of employment

To prove you are a remote worker, you’ll need to deliver a specific document to the Spanish government — a company certificate — that states the following:

• If you are employed, the certificate should show that you’ve worked in the company for at least 3 months, what your income is, and it should include the company’s explicit statement that you have permission to carry out your job remotely from Spain.
• If you are self-employed, the certificate should show the length of the contractual relationship, as well as the terms and conditions under which you will be working remotely. 

NOTE: This document must be submitted in Spanish or in English with a translation to Spanish.

Aside from that, you also need to provide another document — a certificate from the business registration office in your country. 

This certificate needs to show the date of the constitution of the company you work for and the type of activity performed by that company. It needs to prove real and continuous activity for at least 1 year for the company or group of companies with which you have a professional relationship.

NOTE: This document must be apostilled and submitted along with its official translation into Spanish.

Proof of income

Of course, just proving you’re employed isn’t enough — the Spanish government wants to know that you have enough money to support yourself (and any dependents) during your stay in Spain. 

That’s why you need to deliver the following documents along with your application:

• Proof of financial means (a work contract or a company certificate) that shows you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Spain and a regular source of income that is equal to or greater than:
  • 200% of Spain’s Minimum Interprofessional Salary (SMI). In 2024, this amount is €2,268 (~$2,527.73) per month;
  • 200% plus an additional 75% of the SMI (€850 (~$948.70)) if you’re bringing 1 family member with you, and an additional 25% of the SMI (€283.5 (~$316.47)) for every other family member you’re bringing with you.

Proof of a clean criminal background check

To prove you have a clean criminal background, you need to provide a criminal background check certificate from your home country.

However, if you have spent more than 6 months (more than 180 days) during the last 2 years in another country, you’ll need an additional criminal background check from that country. 

So, you’ll need one certificate from each country of residence during the last 2 years. The certificate(s) should be no more than 6 months old. 

Keep in mind that:

• The background check must be authenticated with the Hague Apostille, as Spain does not accept background checks without it.
• The apostille must certify the signature on the criminal background check. Spain does not accept apostilles that certify the signature of the notary who stamps a seal on the criminal background check.
• The criminal background check won’t be accepted if it has been altered or damaged in any way, including damage caused by removing staples.
• The background check must be accompanied by an official translation into Spanish by a sworn/certified translator (the translation does not need an apostille and the apostille does not need a translation).

NOTE: The criminal background checks must be authenticated with the Hague Apostille, unless they are issued by an EU member state. A criminal background check issued by an EU authority does not need to be apostilled to be accepted. If the country in which you’ve lived in over the past 2 years does not subscribe to The Hague Convention of 1961, the background check must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country you stayed in and then by the Consulate of Spain in that same country. The background check must also include an official translation into Spanish.

You need to submit the original and a photocopy of all the documents.

Aside from this certificate, you’ll also need to submit a Responsible Declaration (the original and a photocopy) of the absence of criminal records in the countries where you have resided during the previous 5 years.

Proof of health insurance

In order to grant you a visa, the Spanish government needs to know you won’t rely on their resources if something happens to you — and that includes their public healthcare system. 

That’s why you need to provide proof of health insurance — proof that you have public or private health insurance arranged with an insurance company authorized to operate in Spain.

There are, however, some things you need to keep in mind:

• The insurance entity must be registered in the list of insurance and reinsurance entities of the General Directorate of Insurance and Pension Funds of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism.
• The insurance must cover all risks insured by Spain’s public health system for the entire duration of your stay (the length is specified in your application).
• The health insurance must not have a deficiency, copayment, or coverage limit. It must cover all of the medical, hospital, and out-of-hospital expenses, including preventive and diagnostic treatments, as well as rehabilitation assistance that are carried out in health centers as well as urgent health transport. Travel insurance is not accepted.
• If an international social security agreement is applicable (a bilateral agreement that allows teleworkers insured in another country to carry out their activity in Spain), instead of health insurance, you’ll need to present a certificate issued by the competent institution of the state in which you are insured.
• The bilateral agreement between Spain and the US on social security applies to retirement, survival, and disability benefits. It does not apply to other risks insured by Spain’s public health system, either as health or medical care.
• It is not necessary to present a health insurance certificate if you prove you have coverage by the Spanish public social security system. 

Proof of social security coverage

If you’re lucky and you have social security coverage within the Spanish public health care system, then you’ll need to prove it. You can do so by providing 1 of the 2 following documents:

• Certificate of Coverage issued by the US Social Security Administration, which proves that you meet the conditions of the US–Spain Agreement on Social Security. If you have coverage by the International Standard of Coordination of Social Security Systems (such as the US–Spain Agreement, regarding retirement, survivors, and disability insurance) then you have to provide additional proof that other risks insured by Spain’s public health system are also covered by your public or private health insurance.
• Proof of registration (or having requested registration) in the Spanish Social Security System.

If you opt for the proof of registration option, you’ll also need to provide a Responsible Declaration of the company (or in your own name, if you’re self-employed) that states your commitment to comply with the obligations of the Spanish Social Security System.

This declaration must be submitted in Spanish (or with an official translation into Spanish) together with the proof of registration in the Spanish Social Security System.

The proof of registration can be: 

• Registration of the company in the Spanish Social Security System or,
• Registration of the teleworker as a self-employed worker (RETA: Régimen de Trabajadores Autónomos de la Seguridad Social española) in the Spanish Social Security System.​

NOTE: If you (as a non-resident foreigner) do not have the Spanish electronic certificate or CLAVE, you will not be able to make the electronic registration request or obtain the aforementioned proof. In that case, you can obtain it through an authorized legal representative in Spain who will use a valid electronic certificate to interact and carry out all types of procedures with the Spanish administration.

Proof of education and professional experience

To prove you are an expert in your field, you need to provide either a copy of your degree or documentation that proves a professional experience of at least 3 years.

Keep in mind the following:

• You need to provide both the original and a copy of your graduate or postgraduate degree from a university or business school of recognized prestige. 
• Alternatively, you need to provide documents that prove a minimum of 3 years of professional experience in functions similar to those of the position that you’ll be working in during your time in Spain. The experience must be comparable to the required qualification and relevant to the performance of the remote work.
• You need accreditation in order to practice in Spain (if your profession is regulated via accreditations).
• If the government has any doubts about whether the equivalent of your vocational training degree exists in the Spanish educational system, you’ll need to get your degree accredited before the competent educational authority.
• If you’re moving to Spain because you got a transfer within your company (which has offices and operates in Spain), know that your teleworking visa won’t be granted, as its  conditions coincide with those of the Visa for Intra-Company transfer. So, you’ll need to apply for that visa instead.

Other documents and requirements

Aside from all we mentioned above, you’ll also need to provide some additional documents. 

First, you need to provide proof of payment of the visa fee.

You can pay the visa fee in cash or via money order. As per Spain’s official website these different rates are applied “due to reciprocity”. In 2024, the visa fees are as follows: ​

• US citizens — ~€170.65 ($190),
• Citizens of Australia — ~€2,734 ($3,044),
• Citizens of Bangladesh — ~€88.92 ($99),
• Citizens of Canada — ~€1,436.16 ($1,599),
• Citizens of Ethiopia — ~€456.27 ($508),
• Citizens of Mauritania — ~€236.22 ($263),
• Citizens of the UK — ~€823.61 ($917), and
• All other nationalities — ~€79.04 ($88).

NOTE: Keep in mind that visa fees are revised quarterly according to current exchange rates and can be subject to changes. For more precise information, visit the official website.

Another important document you’ll have to provide is proof of the representative’s identity and capacity. 

If you submit your visa application through a representative, you also have to submit copies of: 

• The identity document or passport of the representative and 
• The power of attorney or document accrediting this representation. 

Also, you must show the originals when submitting the application. 

Foreign documents must be legalized or apostilled and, where applicable, submitted together with an official translation into Spanish.

If that’s not enough, there are also specific requirements for US citizens. 

If you’re from the US, then you must also submit:

• Proof of legal residence in the United States, and
• Self-addressed and prepaid US “Express-Mail” envelope from USPS to have your passport returned by mail. 

And, if you’re a Green Card holder, then you’ll also need:

• Proof of legal residence in the United States and
• A photocopy of your valid US long-term visa or a notarized copy of the US Resident Card (not the original Green Card document).

Although acquiring all the necessary documents is a time-consuming process, the 1-year validity of the visa in one of the world’s most beautiful countries is most likely more than worth the effort.

Who is eligible to apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa?

The Spain Digital Nomad Visa is intended for professionals from countries outside the EU and the EEA (European Economic Area) who work remotely and need an internet connection to do so. 

Applicants who meet the following criteria are eligible to apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa:

• Being self-employed or employed by a company registered outside Spain,
• Having a clean criminal record, 
• Having not been a resident of Spain during the 5 years prior to their application,
• Having proof that they have found accommodation in Spain, and
• If in cooperation with Spanish companies, proving that the income from this cooperation is not more than 20% of their total income.

Are you eligible if you are a United States citizen?

Yes, as a United States citizen, you are eligible for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa. 

However, to get the visa, you must fulfill the aforementioned requirements and go through the process we will mention below.  

Are you eligible if you are a US Green Card holder?

Yes, you are eligible to apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa if you are a US Green Card holder. 

It is still paramount that you are a non-EU or non-EEA citizen and that you meet the criteria mentioned above. 

Are you eligible if you are an EU citizen?

The Digital Nomad Visa is intended for non-EU and non-EEA citizens. 

Therefore, as an EU citizen, you are not eligible to apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa. 

However, digital nomads who come from the European Union or Schengen area can stay and work in Spain for up to 3 months without registration.

Most importantly, they can extend their stay for the period of their contract duration or as long as they have enough funds in their bank account by:

• Registering in the city where they have been living, and 
• Getting the Foreigner Identity Number (NIE). 

Are you eligible if you reside in any other country?

Yes, as long as you are not an EU or EEA citizen, you can go through the process of getting a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa.  

However, once you get to Spain, you will be registered there, so any former temporary residence permits might not be valid anymore. 

How do I get a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain?

You can get your Digital Nomad Visa for Spain by applying for it: 

• In the Spanish Embassies, 
• Online, or 
• Personally, from Spain (note that the relevant info on the official website is only available in Spanish).

By submitting the appropriate documentation we detailed in the previous sections, you officially begin the process of applying for a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa. 

The response time is short — you’ll likely get the answer in no more than 20 days. 

If the answer is positive, you will need to go to the police office in the Spanish city where you want to live and register your presence. 

After that, the police will give you your residency card, and that’s it — the process is over!

Is it hard to get a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain?

Getting a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain is not hard as long as you meet the requirements we mentioned above. 

Of course, it is essential to submit the appropriate documents and get useful legal advice from relevant sources. 

Can I live in Spain without a Digital Nomad Visa while working remotely?

Yes, there is a possibility to work remotely and live in Spain, without having a Digital Nomad Visa.

Digital nomads from the EU/EEA countries do not have to apply for any kind of work visa during their 3-month stay in Spain.

However, after 3 months, everyone needs to register their residence in order to prolong their stay. 

The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa lasts for a year if you’ve applied for it outside of Spain. After that period, you can extend it up to 4 more years.

On the other hand, if you’ve applied for the visa from Spain, when approved, the visa will be valid for 3 years. After the second year, you can  renew it.

After you spend 5 years in Spain, you get the right to permanent residency that makes you equal to any other Spanish citizen.

What other types of visas suitable for digital nomads does Spain offer? 

If you want to move to Spain but do not meet the criteria for the Digital Nomad Visa, we recommend you check out the following types of visas: 

• The Employee visa, 
• The Entrepreneur visa, and  
• The EU Blue Card. 

Type #1: Employee visa for Spain

To apply for the Employee visa, you need to have a signed work contract with a Spanish company.  

To get the Employee visa, you need to submit the following documents: 

• Your passport, 
• A filled out visa application form,
• Proof that you have paid the visa application fees, 
• A standard passport photograph,
• A work contract, 
• The original and a copy of the document called Autorización de Residencia y Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena (Residence and Work Authorization for Employees),  
• A copy and the original clear criminal record certificate (not older than 3 months), 
• Medical certificate proving you do not suffer from a contagious illness that might endanger public health in Spain,
• Proof of residence in the consular district, and
• If you are a minor, a copy of one of your parents’ documents. 

Obtaining this type of visa is a good option if you have signed a short-term contract with a Spanish company that lasts for less than a year. 

The Employee visa lasts as long as your contract does, so this can be a perfect opportunity to see if you like the digital nomad life. 

After the termination of your contract, you can prolong your stay by getting another job and applying for the Digital Nomad Visa. 

Type #2: Entrepreneur visa for Spain 

For digital nomads who want to perform entrepreneurial and innovative activities in Spain, the best option is the Entrepreneur visa.

However, to grant you this type of visa, Spanish authorities also need to consider whether your activity will be of financial benefit to Spain. 

Here are the documents you need to apply for an Entrepreneur visa for Spain: 

• Your passport,
• A filled out visa application form, 
• Proof that you have paid the application fees, 
• A standard passport photograph,
• A positive report on your entrepreneurial activity issued by the responsible Economic and Commercial Office,
• Sufficient financial means (100% of the so-called IPREM (the Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator amount), which is €7,200 (~$8,009.96) per year),
• A copy and the original clean criminal record certificate (not older than 3 months), 
• A document proving you have health insurance, 
• Proof of residence in the consular district, and
• The passport of the representative submitting documents for you, if applicable. 

If you are planning to create an innovative startup and hire employees, an Entrepreneur visa might be a perfect choice. 

Type #3: EU Blue Card for Spain

The EU Blue Card allows highly educated non-EEA professionals to work in Spain and other EU countries, and eventually get a permanent residence permit. 

However, to obtain the EU Blue Card for Spain, you must be a skilled paid employee (with 5+ years experience) or a tertiary educated expert (level 6 of European Qualifications Framework).

After you sign a contract with a Spanish company, and said company’s request for the Blue Card has been approved, you need to submit the following documents:

• Your passport, 
• The visa application form,
• Higher education certificate or proof of at least 5 years of relevant working experience,
• The work contract with the company that lasts for at least 1 year, 
• Proof that your salary will be 1.5 times higher than the average salary in Spain, 
• Proof that you have paid the application fees,
• 2 Photographs,
• Medical certificate proving you do not suffer from a contagious illness that might endanger public health in Spain,
• Proof of health insurance, and 
• Proof that you have a clean criminal record. 

When considering the EU Blue Card, it is important to be aware of the trends in the Spanish job market. 

If you, by any chance, find that Spain lacks experts in your field, depending on the situation, you can try to get a job with the EU Blue Card or with Spain Digital Nomad Visa.

In the past, this permit was intended for highly qualified professionals for employment in positions deemed difficult to fill. However, it seems that this has changed in recent years. 

In any case, it’s best to consult your local embassy or consulate for precise information in the context of your specific situation, so you can see if you are eligible for the EU Blue Card.

Which Spain visa type is best for digital nomads?

Bearing in mind all of the aforementioned information, we think that the Digital Nomad Visa is the best choice for expats who want to settle in Spain.

However, if you do not meet all of the criteria for a Digital Nomad Visa, the adequate alternative would be the Employee Visa. 

The Employee Visa allows a digital nomad to work and live in Spain as long as they have a contract with a Spanish company. The visa can also be extended.

Also, while residing in Spain with the Employee visa, you would be able to start the process of obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa, if you see that you meet the requirements. 

Costs you need to consider as a digital nomad in Spain

As we have said above, life in Spain is not expensive — if you have a good salary. 

With a monthly income of around €2,268 (~$2,527.73) per person (the minimum income requirement for digital nomads), you can live pretty comfortably in most Spanish cities.

Let’s analyze the costs of living in Spain in detail and see how much you will spend there as a digital nomad. 

Expense #1: Accommodation (or rent)

For a 1-bedroom apartment in the best areas for digital nomads in Spain, you’ll need around €950.6 (~$1,057.08).

On the other hand, for bigger, 3-bedroom apartments (more suitable for an average family of 4), you’ll have to pay between €900 and €2,500 (~$1,000.2–$2,778.67)

Naturally, in more expensive cities such as Barcelona or Madrid, you’ll need more — between €1,500 and €3,500 ( ~$1,667.29–$3,890.34) for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city center.

Here are the average rent prices for 1-bedroom apartments in the most popular places for digital nomads in Spain:

City	Average cost of rent (1-bedroom apartment)
Madrid	€1,000–€1,800 (~$1,111.52–$2,000.73)
Barcelona	€950–€1,500 (~$1,055.93–$1,667.2)
Valencia	€900–€1,400 (~$1,000.2–$1,555.88)
Sevilla	€700–€1,100 (~$777.92–$1,222.57)
Malaga	€850–€1,200 (~$944,71–$1,333.71)
Santa Cruz de Tenerife	€700–€1,100 (~$777.92–$1,222.57)
Gran Canaria	€650–€1,000 (~$722.41–$1,111.52)

Expense #2: Groceries 

Although the prices of groceries have slightly decreased in 2024, the inflation driven by the rise in prices of housing and fuel is leaving a mark on Spain’s economy. 

Fortunately, you can still live quite comfortably as long as you earn the minimum income required for digital nomads.

Here are the prices of most commonly bought groceries:   

Groceries	Average price
White bread 500g (17.6 oz)	€1.29 (~$1.43)
Water 1.5 l (50.7 fl oz)	€0.67 (~$0.74)
Milk 1 l (33.8 fl oz)	€1.04 (~$1.16)
Beef 1 kg (2.2 lbs)	€13.55 (~$15.05)
Cheese 1 kg (2.2 lbs)	€12.11 (~$13.45)
12 eggs	€2.52 (~$2.8
Bananas 1 kg (2.2 lbs)	€1.7 (~$1.89)
Oranges 1 kg (2.2 lbs)	€1.74 (~$1.93)

Expense #3: Utilities

An average person spends around 100 kW/h of electricity per month, which means they have to pay around €30 (~$37) per month in Spain.

The amount you’ll have to pay for natural gas depends on how much gas you spend during the heating season. The price of natural gas is €0.1 (~0.11$) per 1kWh. 

The price of water depends on the city where you live. 

Naturally, if you come with a spouse or children, you’ll spend more and, therefore, pay more. 

Here are the prices of utilities in Spain, so that you can plan in detail how much you’ll spend per month: 

Type of bill	Average price
Electricity bill	€0.2068 (~$0.23) per 1kWh
Natural gas for households bill	€0.1 (~$0,11) per 1kWh
Water bill (varies from city to city)	€1.90 (~$2.12) for 1㎥ (1000l)

Expense #4: Gas and public transportation

Expats who get the Spain remote work visa have various options when it comes to transportation in Spain. 

If you ask us, cycling is the best option because Spain has a well-developed cycling infrastructure. 

On the other hand, you can’t really cycle everywhere. So, if you prefer to travel and sightsee in your own (or rented) car, here are the petrol prices in Spain you’ll need to take into consideration: 

Fuel type	Price per liter
Diesel	€1.4/l (~$1.56/l)
Unleaded 95	€1.56/l (~$1.74/l)
LPG	€0.94/l (~$1.05/l)

Public transportation is another option for getting where you want or need to be. However, ticket prices vary from city to city. 

Here are the monthly ticket prices for public transport in our 5 favorite destinations for digital nomads: 

City	Monthly ticket prices
Valencia	*through the SUMA card – €17.5 (~$19.75) — for 1 zone  – €26.5 (~$29.37) — for 2 zones – €44 (~$49.20) — for 3 zones – €65.5 (~$73.25) — for all 4 zones of the city
Malaga	– €47.85 (~$53.5) — for 1 to 2 zones – €55.30 (~$61.83) — for 3 zones – €74.70 (~$83.52) — for 4 zones – €100.15 (~$111.98) — for 5 zones
Santa Cruz de Tenerife	€40 (~$44.73)
Las Palmas	€35 (~$39.13)
Barcelona	– €21.35 (~$23.87) — for 1 zone – €28.75 (~$32.15) — for 2 zones – €40.35 (~$45.11) — for 3 zones – €49.40 (~$55.23) — for 4 zones – €56.65 (~$63.34) — for 5 zones – €60.70 (~$67.86) — for all 6 zones of the city

Bear in mind that these prices are for monthly tickets that can be used for every type of public transportation — bus, tram, and metro (but metro is only available in Valencia, Malaga, and Barcelona). 

Expense #5: Bars and restaurants

As you can guess, prices in bars and restaurants vary across the country. 

However, on average, a meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant will cost you between €32 and €80 (~$35.78–$89.45), depending on what you eat and whether you have a drink or 2, as well. 

When it comes to choosing the restaurant, around 1,300 restaurants in Spain have a Michelin star, so you can start in one of those and work your way across the gastronomic scene in Spain.

If you opt to have a draught beer after a meal, you’ll have to pay no less than €3 (~$3.35) in most cities, while in bigger cities that price is even higher. 

On the other hand, if you like wine, a glass of sangria is between €3 and €10 (~$3.35–$11.18).

Coffee lovers will be the happiest because their drinks of choice are quite affordable — the average price of a cappuccino in Spanish bars is between €1.2 and €3 (~$1.34–$3.35).

Expense #6: Coworking spaces

Holders of Spain remote work visas would be happy to hear that the average monthly rent price of a desk in Spain is between €150 and €200 (~$167.69—$223.59). 

For now, Barcelona has the most coworking places, with around 200 objects that digital nomads from all over the world can use. However, to get your own desk in one of Barcelona’s coworking spaces, you’ll need to pay at least 20% more than in any other Spanish city. 

On the other hand, in cities such as Valencia and Malaga, you can find great coworking spaces for the amounts we mentioned above. 

Expense #7: Internet

Wherever you go to live, you’ll need a strong internet connection. 

Therefore, you will need to spend between €30 and €60 (~$33.54 and $67.09) per month for the internet — for the standard packages. Premium packages at higher speeds will cost you more.

However, we doubt you’ll have to buy the more expensive packages because the ordinary ones are more than capable of providing a great internet connection and speed.

The median download speed of fixed broadband internet in Spain is 207.9 Mbps while the median upload speed is 148.60 Mbps.

Do digital nomads pay tax in Spain?

Digital nomads in Spain have to pay taxes if they meet any of these requirements:

• They spend more than 183 days in Spain during a period of 12 months,
• The core of their economic operations lies in Spain, and
• They have a spouse or children living in Spain.

Any one of the items in the list above will qualify you as a tax resident. If you do not meet any of these requirements, you are not considered a tax resident — so you can relax and enjoy your workation.

However, if you do meet at least 1 of the requirements above, the main rules regarding taxation in Spain are as follows:

• For work-related income up to €600,000 (~$664,920) per year, the tax rate is a flat fee of 24%;
• For work-related income over €600,000 (~$664,920) per year, the tax rate is 47%;
• You have to declare assets through the Model 720: Asset Declaration Tax Form;
• You also have to declare any other obligations on your part (meaning all other types of income).

In other words, if you earn, for example, €27,600 (~$30,863.98) per year, the amount you’ll have to pay for taxes is €6,624 (~$7,406.24) for the whole year.

People in Spain usually pay their taxes between April 6 and June 30, but the dates can change depending on the government order. 

Digital nomads are subjected to the Startup Act, which states that digital nomads can apply for a Non-Resident Income tax regime after 6 months of living in Spain. This is the so-called Beckham Law, allowing digital nomads to pay less in taxes than they normally would, for salaries on the higher end (above €600,000 (~$664,920) per year).

It’s worth mentioning that the digital nomad’s spouses and children (under 25) are also subjects of the tax regime described above. 

It’s also useful to know that you will not have to pay the wealth tax, as long as you fall into the Non-Resident category.

IMPORTANT: Keep in mind that this only applies to people who are formally employed by a foreign company and not to:

• Freelancers, 
• Sportsmen and professional athletes, or
• Directors of companies located in Spain (if they own more than 25% of the equity).

We highly advise consulting reputable tax agencies from Spain to help you with the details of paying taxes during your stay as a digital nomad, since Spain’s taxation system is quite complicated.

Documents required for paying taxes in Spain

To pay taxes in Spain as a resident, you need your personal ID and the so-called Tax Form 100.

You can pay taxes in your local tax office or you can do it online on the Spanish Tax Agency website. 

What are the benefits of being a digital nomad in Spain?

By looking at everything Spain has to offer, we understand why Hemingway said that Spain was the country he loved more than any other except his own.

Here are the main advantages of choosing Spain as your new temporary home and office.

Benefit #1: Satisfactory safety in most places

Spain has a crime index of 36.29 out of 100, which is considered safe.

The biggest threats you can face, especially in bigger cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, are pickpocketing and tourist scams. 

Therefore, be careful when sightseeing or working from local coffee shops.

Spaniards are tolerant and welcoming to foreign workers, tourists, people of different races, and the members of LGBTQ+ community. 

Along with the natural friendliness and tolerance of Spaniards, at the root of satisfactory safety in Spain is the Spanish dual penal system.

A dual penal system means — one system for heavy and one for petty crimes. 

Current laws on crimes that do not involve violence — such as minor misdemeanors and petty thefts — are lenient, according to many. The perpetrators often get away without a prison sentence, because theft under €400 (~$446.91) is considered a “petty crime”. 

In practice, pickpockets pay a fine or, if their trial is delayed for more than 1 year, their case is archived effectively rendering them “not guilty”. 

On the other hand, violent crimes — such as armed robberies, burglary, and threats of physical violence — might result in serious jail time.

It seems that the strict laws regarding violent crimes discourage people from endangering anyone’s life  — making Spain safer for digital nomads.

Benefit #2: High-speed Internet service

Spain holds the 10th place in the world for the fastest internet speed on fixed broadband. 

That is a tremendous benefit because, for digital nomads, a good internet connection is one of the basic needs. 

According to the experience of many people who have lived in Spain, even the basic home internet is fast enough for most people working from home.

Therefore, you can rest assured that you will have a stable and quick connection for your online work and virtual meetings. 

For now, Madrid has the fastest average internet speed — the median download speed is 219.74 Mbps while the median upload speed is 159.01 Mbps — but other cities are also improving and have good results. 

Benefit #3: Rich social life opportunities

Almost every corner of Spain is bustling with activities and life. You can find anything from glorious and vibrant nightlife to magnificent traditional festivals.

From what we have explored and experienced, almost every city has great bars, pubs, and nightclubs. 

Moreover, people in Spain are friendly and generally open to foreigners. They are eager to participate in various activities, so we guess it is only a question of time before you meet new friends there. 

When it comes to traditional festivals, we will single out the following: 

• San Fermin,
• La Tomatina, and
• Feria de Sevilla.

Without further ado, let’s see what we can expect from the above-mentioned festivals.

Festival #1: San Fermin

The festival of San Fermin (Saint Fermin), or the famous bull runs, takes place in Pamplona from July 6 to July 14.

The opening ceremony is marked by spectacular fireworks and street wine/flour/water fights, while the festival days consist of:

• Morning bull runs, 
• Afternoon bullfights, and 
• Late-night parties. 

Festival #2: La Tomatina 

Buñol is a small town near Valencia famous for its festival — La Tomatina, or the tomato fight festival. 

The festival takes place every last Wednesday of August. 

Locals and tourists visit pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs, and have a few drinks to prepare for the day of tomato fighting. 

The tomato fight lasts for around 13 hours, and, when it is over, there can‘t be any more tomato throwing — as it’s forbidden.

Festival #3: Feria de Sevilla

Feria de Sevilla, one of the most iconic festivals in Spain, is famous for its colorfulness, energy, and transformation. 

It takes place 2 weeks after Easter. 

During the day, the festival is a family affair — children walk around with their parents, music is played on every corner, and a variety of traditional meals are available. 

However, when the sun goes down, the feria transforms into a festival of hedonism, where alcohol is poured mercilessly, and parties last late into the night. 

Not the worst way to take a break from work, right?  

Benefit #4: Affordable cost of living

While analyzing the cost of living in Spain, we have concluded that it is neither too expensive nor dirt cheap. 

Taking into account that Spain is one of the most attractive countries in the world, it is pretty affordable for digital nomads to live there. 

Prices vary depending on where you live, though. 

Of course, prices are higher in tourist hotspots such as Barcelona. But, even in Barcelona, you can live generally comfortably if your salary is slightly higher than the minimum income requirement for digital nomads. 

As you’ve read earlier in the article, the average prices of basic products are moderate. 

According to our estimates, an average person’s weekly grocery bill should be around €110 (~$122.85). 

Naturally, if you decide to go to restaurants or get take-outs, your expenses will be higher. 

Regarding accommodation in Spain, the situation is clear — living in big cities, such as Barcelona and Madrid, means you will pay much more for rent than you would in smaller cities or rural areas. 

In any case, accommodation in Spain is not too expensive compared to other well-developed countries.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €600 to €1,500 (~$669.95—$1,674.88). For a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center, the cost is between €450 and €1,100 ($502.47 and $1,228.25). 

Benefit #5: Well-organized healthcare system

To get a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain, you will have to pay between €100 and €200 (~$111.66– $223.32) per month for private health insurance.

However, that isn’t an unnecessary expense. 

If you, by any chance, need medical help, you can rest assured you’ll be in safe hands — thanks to Spanish health insurance and their adequate healthcare system.

Spain’s healthcare system is in the 26th place in the world, which means that it is efficient and well-organized. 

What’s more, your private health insurance allows you to go to both public and private healthcare institutions. 

For digital nomads, going to private clinics and hospitals might be a better option — there’s less waiting time and more English-speaking personnel.

Moreover, private health insurance covers dental care expenses, unlike the public one.

Benefit #6: Great weather and air quality

According to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification, Spain has 5 different climatic zones: 

• The hot-summer Mediterranean climate, 
• The warm-summer Mediterranean climate,
• The warm-summer continental climate,
• The oceanic climate, and
• The semiarid climate.

The hot summer Mediterranean climate is the most dominant, present all around the Iberian peninsula — except for the north.

In the north, you can feel the presence of the ocean, warm-summer continental, and warm-summer Mediterranean climate. 

Spain is well-known for its mild winters and hot, dry summers. Besides, sea temperatures are amazingly pleasant. 

For example, during July and August, sea temperatures in summer holiday resorts can be between 17.8℃ and 24℃ (64°F–75°F).

Therefore, the Kingdom of Spain is ideal for people who like warm weather.  

And, according to the latest reports, Spain has good air quality — the US AQI reading is 40. 

However, further improvements regarding air quality are needed in big cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, as well as some parts of the country that are rich in industrial zones.

What are the drawbacks of being a digital nomad in Spain?

Although there are more advantages than disadvantages when it comes to moving to Spain, there are still a few drawbacks that might dishearten digital nomads who want to settle there. 

Here are some things we perceive as major drawbacks of being a digital nomad in Spain.

Drawback #1: Low English proficiency index

Applicants for a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa should know that Spaniards do not speak English very well and have a moderate English proficiency index. Furthermore, in the 2023 English Proficiency Rankings, Spain took 35th place among 113 countries that participated in the survey.

Around 10 years ago, Spaniards aged between 25 and 34 were at the same level of English as their coevals in Portugal and Greece. Nowadays, people from Portugal and Greece have improved their English proficiency index, but Spaniards remain on the same level. 

All of the aforementioned data is not good news for foreigners who speak only English — communication with the locals might be fraught with difficulties in overcoming language barriers. 

Drawback #2: Overtourism

Overtourism has become one of the biggest problems of attractive destinations in Spain — they have simply become overcrowded. 

If you are wondering what the signs of overtourism are, just take a look at the following list: 

• Boulevards, pedestrian zones, and narrow streets become jammed with tourists, 
• Locals avoid going to certain parts of the city because they are too crowded, 
• Rent prices become too high for the locals, and 
• You have to book ahead if you want to see natural parks, landscapes, mountains, lakes, historical buildings, museums, etc. 

If you are a digital nomad who does not like living in a city packed with people 365 days a year, we recommend you avoid settling in big tourist hotspots such as Barcelona.

On the other hand, if you want to live in Barça or similar, crowded cities, we suggest you explore the city and find some not-so-popular attractions and hidden gems that would make you feel like one of the locals.

Drawback #3: Bureaucracy

One of the biggest drawbacks for expats who decide to apply for a Spain Digital Nomad Visa is the complex bureaucratic system.

Because of the vast number of immigrants who come to Spain to get a better life, local governments are under huge pressure. They often have neither enough employees nor resources to resolve the foreigners’ problems efficiently.

Therefore, processes such as registration in the Town Hall, enrollment of children at primary schools, or any other type of administrative registration are riddled with difficulties. 

It is common for digital nomads to find themselves in the so-called administrative deadlock, which can be frustrating — especially for people who come from countries with more efficient local governments. 

However, there are ways for digital nomads to mitigate the consequences of this drawback: 

• Tip #1: Expect that the processes will take time, so start them earlier. 
• Tip #2: The person you are talking to in the majority of cases is not a decision-maker, so go easy on them.
• Tip #3: Take into account that a lot of Spaniards, especially those over a certain age, do not speak English, so try to learn the basics of Spanish as soon as you can. 
• Tip #4: Ambiguity is a part of life in Spain, and it is particularly visible in the administration system. So, get used to that, and avoid looking at things in black and white. 

5 Best destinations for digital nomads in Spain

The list of the 5 best destinations for digital nomads in Spain is the result of careful and objective research of the following aspects:   

• Cost of living,
• Social life,
• Weather and air quality, 
• Green areas, and
• City attractions.

After a careful analysis, here are the best destinations for digital nomads in Spain.

Barcelona — Most popular city for digital nomads in Spain 

Population: 1,620,343 

City area: 39.15 mi² (101.4 km²)

Time zone: UTC +01:00 

Average internet speed: 216.93 Mbps (median download speed); 162.18 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: €817.9 (~$913.33) per person per month (without rent), €2,877.5 (~$3,213.23) for a family of 4 per month (without rent)

Average cost of rent: €950–€1500 (~$1,060.58—$1,674.61) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center

Biggest advantage: World-famous architecture 

Biggest drawback: Overtourism

Tremendous history, beautiful architecture, scenic waterfront, vibrant social life, and great beaches are the first things that come to mind when mentioning Barcelona.

However, apart from Barcelona’s beauty and cultural history, the first thing you’ll notice in the city — and something you’ll come to appreciate as a digital nomad — is that there are metro stations practically everywhere.

The city’s efficient public transport enables you to get wherever you want for €2.55 (~$2.85) (1-way ticket).

Besides the 8 metro lines, the city is also famous for its well-developed cycling infrastructure.

Unfortunately, Barcelona has a few drawbacks as well.

The city is definitely for digital nomads with very deep pockets. 

If you are looking for a 1-bedroom apartment, you’ll need to pay at least €950–€1,500  (~$1,060.58—$1,674.61) per month. Besides the accommodation, food is also more expensive than in most places in Spain — you’ll need around €112.4 (~$125.57) a week for groceries.

Barça has around 1.7 million inhabitants in an area of 101.4km², making it one of the most densely populated in the whole country. 

In addition, in 2023, around 12 million visitors visited Barcelona, which means overtourism is a massive problem. 

Nevertheless, some people like buzzing cities, so if you are looking for something like that, Barcelona might be a perfect choice.

Where to work in Barcelona

Barcelona is a real paradise for digital nomads who like to rent offices. Among 100 coworking spaces available at the moment, OneCoWork Plaça Catalunya stands out with 4.8 stars from 309 voters on Google.  

Malaga — Best city for startups in Spain

Population: 571,026

City area: 153.74 mi² (398.2 km²)

Time zone: UTC +01:00 

Average internet speed: 110.88 Mbps (median download speed);  116.14 (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: €678.5 (~$757.26) per person per month (without rent); €2,373.6 (~$2,649.12) for a family of 4 per month (without rent) 

Average cost of rent: €950 (~$1,060.25) per month 

Biggest advantage: Exciting startup scene 

Biggest drawback: Might become overcrowded with digital nomads from all over the world 

Malaga is located in the very south of the Iberian peninsula, 100 km from the Gibraltar strait. It is the second largest city in Andalusia, just behind Seville.  

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Malaga has many beautiful things to offer to digital nomads who chose it for their destination. 

First of all, Malaga is well connected to other areas of Spain, due to its airport and connections to motorways. 

Secondly, the city has become a hotspot for startups, freelancers, and digital nomads. 

New startups located in Malaga like Freepik and Uptodown, along with huge corporations that have been there for some time such as Vodafone, IBM, and Siemens make us consider Malaga as one of the upcoming Silicon valleys in Europe. 

Furthermore, Google opened its third cybersecurity center in Europe in this Andalusian city. Google’s investment is a great signal for any startup or digital nomad to come and live in Malaga. 

Finally, the third biggest advantage of moving to Malaga is the cost of living.

Although the city has become the home of many wealthy business people and IT professionals, middle-class people and professionals who do not earn millions can still find their place under the sun in Malaga. 

That’s because it is always sunny there. 

Okay, enough with dad jokes, let’s make a long story short — accommodation and food prices are almost identical to those in Valencia. 

Where to work in Malaga

Since Malaga has become a hotspot for digital nomads, you should get your place in The Living Room Coworking Space (5.0 stars from 200 reviews) as soon as you can. 

Santa Cruz de Tenerife — Best for nature lovers

Population: 204,856

City area: 58.14 mi² (150.6 km²)

Time zone: WET (UTC ±00:00) 

Average internet speed: 40 Mbps (median download speed); N.A. (median upload speed) 

Average cost of living: €617.84 (~$689.87) per month per person (without rent); €2,223.04 (~$2,464.26 ) per month for a family of 4 per month (without rent)

Average cost of rent: €875 (~$977.26) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center 

Biggest advantage: Beautiful nature 

Biggest drawback: Far from any big cities in continental Spain

Tenerife is the largest of all Canary Islands and its capital is called Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

During the pandemic, many digital nomads picked Tenerife as their new home due to the wonderful climate that could be described with 2 words — eternal spring.  

To break the stereotype that living on an island is always expensive, we would like to point out that a 1-bedroom apartment in the center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife costs, on average, around €875 (~$977.26) per month.

If you are interested in local culture, you can visit the northern parts of the island, and witness some interesting old Spanish and Canarian customs.

Also, Tenerife hosts the second-largest carnival in the world (Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife), which takes place in February.

But, even if you don’t visit during the carnival, you won’t miss out on having fun. Tenerife nightlife is legendary, especially in the summer months, when a lot of tourists decide to visit the island.

If you enjoy nature, you will be amazed by the hiking opportunities and beautiful beaches the island offers.

On the other hand, if you do not like walking too much, you can use public transport that goes all around the island. You won’t even have to pay much for it — 1-way tickets cost €2 (~$2.24). 

Finally,  you will need around €51.68 (~$57.75) for weekly groceries, while eating out might set you back a bit more —  common restaurant meals are around €12 (~$13.41), while specialties are often around €20 (~$22.35). 

Where to work in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Best coworking space, with the highest Google rating and number of voters, is Coworking Espacio Kernel (4.9 stars from 71 reviews).

Although there are plenty of coworking spaces in the city, you can also go to wonderful seaside bars, cafes, or even public places with wi-fi and work from there. 

Las Palmas — Spanish low-price heaven for digital nomads 

Population: 378,517

City area: 38.84 mi² (100.6 km²)

Time zone: WET (UTC ±00:00) 

Average internet speed: 62 Mbps (median download speed); N.A. (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: €646.73 (~$722.51) per person per month (without rent); €2,331.35 (~$2,604.43) for a family of 4 per month (without rent)

Average cost of rent: €830 (~$927.22) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center 

Biggest advantage: Low cost of living 

Biggest drawback: Isolated 

Las Palmas is located on Gran Canaria island, and it’s quite similar to the island of Tenerife. 

Therefore, all digital nomads who opt for Las Palmas, or any other smaller city in Gran Canaria, can enjoy beautiful white and black lava sand beaches, turquoise water, and various mountains for hiking. 

Nearby fishing villages can be a great weekend getaway for all of you who decide to live in Las Palmas. In villages such as Puerto de Mogan or Agaete Valley, you can learn quite a bit about the local culture, as well. 

Rental costs depend on where you want to live. Prices for apartments near the beach are a bit higher — for example, the lowest price would be around €600 (~$643) per month. 

If you want to commute by bus to some other parts of the town, the daily transport 1-way ticket is €1.40 (~$1.56).

According to the experience of people who have lived in Las Palmas, you can expect to spend around €40 (~$42.90) per week on groceries. So, the costs are similar to other places on our list. 

Las Palmas is a family-friendly city that, quite paradoxically, has a vibrant nightlife, as well. 

Therefore, it has something for everyone, and it is up to you to choose what you need. 

Where to work in Las Palmas

Among 15 coworking spaces in Las Palmas, BLACK HOUSE · Coworking stands out. It has 4.9 stars from 216 reviews on Google.

However, you can also work on wi-fi-equipped public beaches or in seaside coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. It would be a pity not to use the beautiful weather whenever you can.

Valencia — Best city for digital nomads in Spain

Population: 791,413

City area: 51.96 mi² (134.6 km²)

Time zone: UTC +01:00 

Average internet speed: 403.15 Mbps (median download speed); 108.06 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: €693.9 (~$774.09) per month per person (without rent); €2,438.3 (~$2,720.03) per month for a family of 4 (without rent)

Average cost of rent: €900–€1,400 (~$1,003.99—$1,562.32) per month

Biggest advantage: Well-organized city 

Biggest drawback: Potential threat of overtourism in the future  

The city of Valencia is located on the western shores of the Mediterranean sea. Its nature is so diverse that one can go hiking in the morning and swimming at noon without traveling to another city.

Public transport functions at the highest possible level, and there are various successful incentives for cycling. Consequently, there are no problems with traffic jams and air pollution. 

We have asked a digital nomad who lived in Spain, Nemanja Radakovic, to tell us where you can spend your free time in Valencia: 

Although the prices of accommodation and food in Valencia aren’t so low, they are still lower than in Barcelona or Madrid. 

Depending on the neighborhood, you can find a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center for between €900 and €1,400 (~$1,003.99 and $1,562.32) per month. 

Regarding food and drinks, around €369.7 (~$412.53) per week should be enough per person. 

Also, if you like going out to restaurants, you will love what our other expert and former digital nomad, Maja Bajic, had to say: 

Therefore, even with the minimal income for a digital nomad (€2,268 (~$2,527.73)), you should be able to live comfortably in Valencia. 

Where to work in Valencia

There are many coworking places in Valencia, but we have opted for the one that has the highest Google rating and number of voters — Vortex Playa Coworking Valencia. It has 5.0 stars from 313 reviews. 

Tips for digital nomads in Spain

Settling in another country can be pretty difficult for digital nomads. However, knowing a few things about the country’s society and culture can make their lives easier.

Therefore, here are the best tips for digital nomads in Spain. 

Tip #1: Research the real estate market 

Due to the huge discrepancies in prices, you have to be very careful when choosing an apartment in Spain. 

Beware of so-called tourist traps — i.e. apartments rented for far more than their real worth. 

Thoroughly research the real estate market, and, if possible, find someone who has lived in Spain and who can give you useful information. 

Tip #2: Contact legal teams specialized in Spanish immigration law

Getting a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain is not a walk in the park, so we recommend you contact legal teams specialized in Spanish immigration law. 

Naturally, some digital nomads are more resourceful than others, so they might not need anyone’s help. 

But, for others who are doubtful about the whole process of getting the visa, contacting a legal team is a must. 

Tip #3: Find the places enjoyed by local people only   

Although some places are still successfully coping with the problem of overtourism, they are still being visited by thousands of tourists every month.

If you come from a country that does not have many tourists, that might be unusual for you. 

Therefore, if you do not like to spend time in areas packed with tourists, you can find some places enjoyed by the locals only — rustic bars, nightclubs for locals, hidden beaches, and mountains with hiking trails only locals are familiar with. 

Achieving all of this, of course, is only possible if you befriend the locals. This way, you’ll have someone to help you settle in Spain and avoid crowded places and tourists.

Tip #4: Use bicycles

Spain has a great infrastructure for cyclists. Therefore, it would be a pity not to use it because it has many benefits.  

Cycling will save you some money because you will not pay for gas or public transport. In addition, you will avoid potential traffic jams. 

What’s more, you will not contribute to air pollution, and, by driving your bike around, you will have more time to see beautiful architecture and picturesque landscapes the Kingdom of Spain has to offer. 

Tip #5: Always validate your transport ticket

Thanks to Maja Bajic, we got a grasp of how strict Spaniards are regarding paying for public transport: 

Therefore, if you plan on being an everyday commuter, we recommend you buy a monthly ticket. 

Further reading for digital nomads in Spain

While writing this guide we have found a few amazing sources for digital nomads who decide to settle in Spain. 

Here are some we recommend you bookmark: 

• Ministry of economic affairs and digital transformation is a great place to find new information about certain legislation that can affect you as a digital nomad.
• Spanish Tax Agency enables you to pay your bills online. 
• The best website for digital nomads looking for accommodation in Spain is called Idealista. No matter if you want to buy or rent, you can find a variety of real estate all around Spain. 
• Here are the links to some of the local public transport providers via which you can buy tickets: EMT Valencia, Guaguas Municipales (Las Palmas), Malaga public transport consortium, Tenerife public buses, TMB (Barcelona), and EMT Madrid.  
• Renfe — the official website of the Spanish national rail company, where you can buy intercity tickets or simply check the schedules. Renfe also allows you to buy train tickets or get information on various cities’ commuter rail networks.
• Alsa and Flixbus are also great, cost-effective options if you are looking for intercity bus transport.
• Another reliable and cost-effective transport alternative is BlaBlaCar. Thanks to this app, you can join someone in their car and travel to your destination for an affordable price.  
• Do you like clubbing, going to gigs, or having a nice meal in a restaurant? If the answer is yes, then Xceed is the best place to find what you are looking for. 

Power your digital nomad journey to Spain with Pumble

Working from a country far from home can pose quite a challenge, but with Spain’s wide internet coverage, you can rest assured that working remotely will be a breeze.

However, you’re going to need a secure and reliable way to communicate with your team, so that your business can run smoothly.

That’s where Pumble comes in.

Pumble is a team communication app designed to enhance team connectivity and boost overall productivity. Pumble’s main features include:

• Video conferencing for keeping in touch personally with your team,
• Direct messaging for that important 1-on-1 info,
• Channels — group spaces for topic discussions and important team agreements, and
• File sharing — for making collaborative work as easy as possible.

Pumble will help you cover everything team communication-related, so you can relax knowing your business will be done as efficiently as ever. You’ll just be running it from a beautiful location.

Keep your communication sharp and your work focused from miles away — try Pumble for free today!

Spain Digital Nomad Visa guide disclaimer

We hope this Spain Digital Nomad Visa guide has been helpful and that you enjoyed reading it. Throughout the guide, we have given you various links that might lead you to new interesting data or simply to articles that will expand your knowledge on various Spain-related topics.

Please bear in mind that our article was written in Q3 of 2024, so any changes that are made in the Spain Digital Nomad Visa procedures or laws after that time have not been included. 

Before you start the application process, we advise you to consult with certified representatives, lawyers, and institutions that can provide you with all the information needed. 

Pumble is not responsible for any negative responses, losses, or risks incurred, should this guide be used without further guidance from legal and other official advisors.

References:  

• Euro News. (2024, June 13). Inflation in Spain rises to 3.6% in May driven by the cost of housing. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://www.euronews.com/business/2024/06/13/inflation-in-spain-rises-to-36-in-may-driven-by-the-cost-of-housing
• Individual – Tax administration. (n.d.). Spain. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://taxsummaries.pwc.com/spain/individual/tax-administration
• IQAir. (n.d.). Air quality in Spain. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://www.iqair.com/spain
• KMPG. (2023, June 15). Spain – New Rules for EU Blue Card. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://kpmg.com/xx/en/home/insights/2023/06/flash-alert-2023-124.html
• Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores Unión Europea y Cooperación. (n.d.). Telework (Digital nomad) Visa. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/washington/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Telework-visa.aspx
• Numbeo. (n.d.). Cost of Living in Spain. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Spain
• shengenvisa.info. (n.d.) Working in Europe – How to get an EU Visa / Work Permit. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/working-schengen-visa/
• speedtest.net. (2024, July). Median Country Speeds Updated July 2024. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://www.speedtest.net/global-index
• Statistics Explained. (n.d.). Statistics explained. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Crime_statistics
• World Population Atlas. (n.d.). Best Healthcare in the World 2024. Retrieved August, 2024, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/best-healthcare-in-the-world