There are a number of options in terms of visas for remote workers in Spain for those looking to visit this hugely popular country among tourists and long-term visitors alike. The high quality of life available in Spain’s main cities on the coasts and inland is one of the many reasons so many visitors decide to stay longer than they initially intended. Indeed, it is relatively easy for most people to stay for longer in Spain, although this will depend on your nationality and profession. Importantly, among the several options available to remote workers here is a freelancer-type visa available to the self-employed. Below we outline the main visa options available to remote workers in Spain.
This is will be the most popular option in terms of visas for remote workers in Spain. Those traveling here with EU/EEC citizenship will not require a visa, and those from any of 62 select countries around the world (inc. the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia) are eligible for visa-free entry for up to 90 days. During these 90 days allowed to visa-exempt visitors, holders cannot engage in any gainful employment, studies or business. For those coming from countries not on the visa-exempt program, the Schengen Visa is available to those who can prove sufficient funds for their stay as well as paid accommodation for their time in the country. The Schengen Visa has a cost of 80EUR and can be applied for at any of the Spanish consulates around the world.
This will be the best visa for remote workers in Spain looking to engage in official business while in the country. Non-EEC/EU nationals and will require this visa if their main purpose in Spain or the wider Schengen area is to attend meetings, sign contracts or engage in any other form of business. In order to successfully apply for this visa, you will need to present an invitation from a Spanish company as well as your financial statements and purpose of travel to Spain. The visa is usually issued for 90 days and allows for travel across the Schengen area.
A useful visa for remote workers in Spain looking to study Spanish while in the country. The Schengen Student Visa will allow holders to engage in academic activities for up to 3 months in Spain and the Schengen area, after presenting course registration documents and proof of sufficient funds. For those looking to stay in the country for more than 3 months of studying, the long-term student visa allows for up to 6 months of academic activity in Spain and even allows for part-time work across the country. To obtain the long-term Student Visa you will need to present all the same documents as with the Schengen Student Visa, along with a certified health certificate and a criminal background check. This visa must be applied for outside of Spain before arrival.
Spain’s Autónomo visa has for long been a favorite among freelancer and could indeed be a valuable option in terms of visas for remote workers in Spain. This visa is granted for 1 year but can be extended twice for 2 years each time, providing long-term stability for established remote workers. You must apply for this visa outside of Spain at your local Spanish consulate and must present at least 13000EUR in funds for your first in the country, as well as a tentative address in Spain and proof of qualifications for your freelance business. The most important part of this visa application will be the project description requirement - you must submit, with your application, a detailed dossier or portfolio which explains your business as well as its growth, plans for the future and projected earnings.
This information is intended for reference only, and we strongly recommend that everyone looking for suitable visas for remote workers in Spain get in touch with their local Spanish consulate or an immigration specialist to verify all the latest requirements and application fees.
For more information about living in Barcelona as a remote worker, check out our complete Barcelona guide.