Invest in Spain's Digital Nomad Visa!

As Spain approved the new 'Digital Nomad Visa', we asked top Lawyer and Head of Immigration at CostaLuz Lawyers, Sara Velasco what digital nomads will need in order to be successful applicants, is it all worth it and how do we apply?

1. What are the requirements for foreign digital nomads who want to be a successful applicant for the new Spanish Digital Nomad?

The law has just been approved and came into effect on the 23rd of December 2022. This visa is for third-country nationals. Spouse/registered civil partner and children of the applicant can apply jointly. Also, they will be allowed to work in Spain, which is a great advantage.

This visa will be valid for at least one year (it can be renewed if you stay for at least 6 months to a year in Spain).

The requirements are as follows: · The existence of a real and continuous activity for at least one year of the company or group of companies with which the worker has a labor or professional relationship. · Documentation accrediting that the employment or professional relationship can be carried out remotely. · In the event of the existence of an employment relationship (employee), the employment relationship between the worker and the company not located in Spain with whom the relationship has been maintained for at least the last three months must be proven, as well as documentation proving that said company allows the worker to carry out the work activity remotely. · In the event of the existence of a professional relationship (self employed), it must be proven that the worker has a commercial relationship with one or more companies not located in Spain for at least the last three months, as well as documentation that proves the terms and conditions under which the professional activity will be carried out remotely. Regarding the fiscal advantage, the tax rate for employees holding the Digital Nomad visa will be 24% up to 600,000 euros. From 600,000.01 euros onwards, the tax rate will be 47%. Also, after 5 years residing in Spain, they will be able to apply for permanent residency.

2. How does a digital nomad apply? What is the easiest, fastest or most secure way of doing so?

This visa will benefit from a fast track. However, it is possible that in the first few months there will be a lot of applications and it could take longer to resolve them.

The first step is always an application electronically on their behalf. In case they decide to do it from outside of Spain, if granted, the next step is to apply for the visa in their country of residency. In case they are in Spain as tourists or under a residence permit, they will only have to apply electronically for the Digital Nomad visa, as they will not need to apply for a visa at the Spanish Consulate.

3. What would you say are the biggest pros and cons of being a digital nomad in Spain are?

The great advantage is to be allowed to work for their foreign company from Spain and also, to be able to bring their family from day 1. In addition, their family members will be allowed to work in Spain (both employed and self-employed). 4. Why should someone invest in the new Digital Nomad visa for Spain?

Because it is a great opportunity to discover this beautiful and welcoming country which has much to offer, continue working for their foreign companies and start a new life. 5. What other Visas are there for foreigners to obtain for living and working legally in Spain?

It depends on their needs and personal circumstances, as there are many options: Highly Qualified Professional visa, Entrepreneur visa, Self-Employment visa, Golden visa, Employment and Work visa, etc. Here you will find all the long-stay visas. 6. In your opinion, where is the best place to live, work and build a good lifestyle in Spain?

Spain is a beautiful and diverse country so it depends on the climate and the landscape that the particular person likes. For example, Andalusia has both spectacular mountains and beaches, as well as great weather all year round. Also, Andalusia has a wonderful history, architecture and culture. 7. Tell us about Costaluz Lawyers and the work you do as Head of Immigration...

CostaLuz Lawyers has been representing and defending the rights and interests of English-speaking foreigners in Spain since 2006. Over nearly 15 years, our law firm has forged a reputation for pioneering the defence of consumer rights, particularly those of property owners affected by off-plan and mortgage issues. We were the first to bring banks and developers to account and have made it our mission to help foreigners navigate the intricacies of Spanish law and obtain successful outcomes for their problems. Maria Luisa de Castro -our Director- founded CostaLuz Lawyers in 2006 with the idea of attracting property investment to the Costa de la Luz in southern Spain and help English-speaking foreigners buying property to retire to, live in or spend holidays in Spain.

Her founding principle was to help foreigners understand how Spanish law works and get the best possible outcome for their interests. This mission now forms one of the pillars of CostaLuz Lawyers. We are now expanding into other important areas such as Immigration law, to cover all our clients' needs. We have an incredible demand in this field and we are growing a lot. In my case, I am the Head of the Immigration Department, coordinating our working group and leading it technically, under the supervision of our Director. 8. What is your favourite thing about living in Spain and what should digital nomads expect when moving to Spain?

I would say that the best things about Spain are its quality of life, the people, its culture and, of course, its famous gastronomy.

To find out more about the legal process for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa visit https://costaluzlawyers.es/