What Is Digital Nomad Residency?
A permit that allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain while working remotely for one or more companies or clients based outside Spain, whether as an employee of a foreign company or as a freelancer and owner of an independent international business.
No more than 20% of the applicant's total income may come from employers or clients based in Spain. Exceeding this cap during the validity of the residency can be grounds for refusing renewal or revoking the permit, so it must be carefully documented in contracts and invoices.
Requirements
- An employment or professional activity that can be carried out entirely or mainly remotely using a computer and the internet
- An employment or contractual relationship with companies or clients based outside Spain, with no more than 20% of income coming from Spanish sources
- A work or collaboration history with the current employer or clients, usually at least three months before submitting the application (for employees), or evidence of prior independent activity (for freelancers)
- A relevant university degree or at least three years of proven work experience in the field of activity
- A monthly income of at least approximately 200% of the IPREM for the main applicant
- Comprehensive private health insurance and a certificate of no criminal record from Iran, duly legalized through consular channels
Minimum Income Required for 2026
As with other residence permits, the minimum income is calculated as a percentage of the IPREM. This amount is updated every year.
| Status | Approximate Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Main applicant (200% of IPREM) | Approx. €1,200 |
| Dependent spouse | Additional amount proportional to IPREM |
| Each additional child or dependent | Additional amount proportional to IPREM |
The exact IPREM amount is set every year in Spain's General State Budget Act. Check the current official figure and the required bank documents with us before submitting your application.
Validity Period and Renewal
This residency is usually initially issued for one to three years and can be renewed, provided the remote work relationship continues and the 20% domestic income cap is respected. A spouse and dependent children can also join this residency through family reunification.
Special Tax Regime
Many holders of digital nomad residency qualify for the special tax regime for workers posted to Spain (known as the Ley Beckham law). Instead of the usual progressive personal income tax rates, this regime applies a flat rate of around 24% up to €600,000 of annual income, and it can create significant tax savings.
Application Steps
- Prepare employment, financial and health insurance documents
- Submit the application through the Spanish Embassy in Tehran, or in some cases after legally entering Spain through the Large Business Unit (Unidad de Grandes Empresas)
- Receive the decision and the visa or residence permit is issued
- Register with the local municipal register (Empadronamiento) and obtain your residence card (TIE) after entering Spain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between digital nomad residency and non-lucrative residency?
Under non-lucrative residency, no work of any kind is permitted. Under digital nomad residency, you can work remotely for an employer or clients outside Spain, up to a cap of 20% of income from Spanish sources.
Can I also have several Spanish clients?
Yes, but the combined income from clients or employers based in Spain must not exceed 20% of your total income.
Does this residency offer tax benefits?
Yes, many holders can benefit from the special tax regime (similar to Ley Beckham) with a flat rate of around 24% up to €600,000 of annual income.
Can my family come to Spain with me?
Yes, a spouse and dependent children can join this residency through the family reunification route, provided sufficient financial means are proven.