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Remote Worker? Spain To Offer New Digital Nomad Visa

Become a digital nomad or remote worker in Spain
Digital nomad in Spain [Image by Pexels from Pixabay]

One good thing that came from the COVID-19 pandemic is the rise in remote working. Now, countries are offering digital nomad visas to attract remote workers and give them the chance to learn more about the country. Whether heading to the major cities, the Canary Islands, or the Balearic Islands, the choice is endless for the perfect place to work remotely.

Spain to offer new digital nomad visa

Working as a remote worker, armed with a laptop and an Internet connection, has become a popular trend. Following the number of people who worked from home during the pandemic, many people continue to work remotely. Obviously, you can literally work anywhere, as long as you have the necessary Internet connection, but one recommended destination is Spain.

In the wake of the pandemic, Spain is capitalizing on the rise in remote workers and has announced a new visa program. This remote worker visa will be available for non-European Economic Area residents, including UK and US citizens. Basically, anyone working for foreign companies will be able to live in the country without the need for a full work visa.

Remote worker in Spain
Remote worker [Image by StockSnap from Pixabay]

So far, details are still being finalized. However, the new initiative forms part of the Ley de Startups (Startups Law). Moreover, the law is aimed at attracting tech companies, digital nomads and remote workers to live in Spain. Meanwhile, the new law is expected to come into force in January 2023.

Initially, the digital nomad visa will be valid for one year, with the possibility of extending it for up to five years. In order to be eligible, remote workers must be employed by a non-Spanish company operating outside the country. Alternatively, if self-employed, workers must earn no more than 20 percent of their income from Spanish clients.

To get a digital nomad visa, workers must earn a minimum monthly income, currently rumored to be around €2,100 ($2,225) to €3,000 ($3,178). Moreover, applicants will be asked to show proof of accommodation.

Additionally, remote workers will be required to have private health insurance. They must also have a higher-education qualification or proof of three years of work experience. Moreover, while exact figures are yet to come, digital nomad visa holders will benefit from substantial non-resident tax breaks. Even better, they will also have the option of bringing close family members to Spain, including partners and children. As soon as exact details are available, we will let readers know.

Suggested locations for remote working

Spain has many recommended locations for digital nomads, whether on the mainland or on one of Spain’s islands. Suggested destinations include major cities, such as Barcelona, Madrid or Valencia. Alternatively, an option is to visit Andalucia and work remotely in gorgeous, historic cities like Granada, Sevilla, or Cordoba.

Head to the beaches of Cádiz

Kitesurfing in Tarifa, Cadiz, Spain
Kitesurfing in Tarifa [Image by deborahboniardi from Pixabay]

For those who love the beach, Tarifa on the Costa de la Luz in Cádiz Province is one of the best beach locations. In fact, it is already becoming increasingly popular with remote workers. Besides the gorgeous beaches, Tarifa is a windy town offering a perfect windsurfing and kitesurfing experience. Meanwhile, the old town offers excellent restaurants, bars and cafés.

Remote worker in the Canary Islands

Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria, Spain [Image by adamkontor from Pixabay]

Another location that seems tailor-made for remote workers is the beautiful Canary Islands, just off the coast of Africa. Gran Canaria particularly is becoming a popular remote work center, with people coming from all over the world. Meanwhile, its capital, Las Palmas offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere with beautiful beaches and the historic Vegueta district to visit. Alternatively, for a peaceful atmosphere, one of the inland villages can offer a quieter experience.

Digital nomad experience in Mallorca, Spain

Port of Soller, Mallorca, Spain
Port of Soller, Mallorca [Image by Christian B. from Pixabay]

Staying with islands, Mallorca is one of Spain’s beautiful Balearic Islands, nestling in the blue Mediterranean Sea. When not working, Mallorca’s beaches and rural areas are tempting places to relax. Moreover, the towns and cities offer delicious dining on the island’s typical cuisine or the chance of enjoying a night out in lively bars and nightclubs.

Tourist Meets Traveler will post more news about the new Ley de Startups for digital nomads as soon as it is available.