For British expats keen to enjoy working in a warmer climate, the introduction of Spain’s digital nomad visa could provide them with the perfect opportunity to begin a new chapter.
Launched on 31 March, the proposals allow citizens from outside the European Union to live and work in the country for up to a year as part of the ‘Startup Law’, which was approved by the Spanish Government in January 2022.
Amongst the individuals eligible to apply are British passport holders, but they will need to have an income from an employer or be self-employed with several clients located outside of Spain.
The applicant must also provide an employment contract and have been with the company for at least three months. However, if the individual has a criminal record or has held residency status in Spain within the last five years, then they will not eligible for a visa.
Whilst successful applicants are permitted to stay in Spain for up to a year, they have the option to renew visas for up to five years, although this is subject to their working situation at the time of the enquiry.
Applicants can obtain a one-year visa through Spanish Consulates in the UK and the rest of the world (option to renew for up to three and five years) or a three-year card directly from Spain within 90 days of entering the country (option to renew for up to five years).
Lola Pacheco, Consultant at Buckles Law, commented: “For those British residents that already practice remote working, the digital nomad visa could allow them to reap the benefits of moving to a warmer climate with their families, as spouses and children can also be added to applications.
“The visa also allows freedom of movement throughout the UK and will help holders save money through an optimised non-resident income tax regime – for the first four years of their stay they will be taxed at 15% rather than the regular 25% rate of income tax.
“However, for anybody keen to work for a Spanish company or client under this Visa, there are a couple of important limits to keep in mind.
“Either, you must maintain the commercial/contractual relationship with the foreign company that enabled you to maintain the visa in the first place or the income generated from the Spanish company does not account for more than 20% of your total income.
“Whatever your personal circumstances may be, digital nomad visas could give families the opportunity to save important funds during a time of widespread economic uncertainty.
“If you are considering applying for a visa, then it is important to consult an experienced legal team to confirm eligibility and ensure a smooth process is followed.”
