The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa presents an excellent opportunity for South African remote workers, digital nomads, and freelancers to live and work in Spain, a country renowned for its vibrant culture. The visa, also known as the International Teleworking Visa, allows South African remote workers to reside and work in Spain for up to 12 months, with the potential for renewal up to five years.
The digital nomad visa in Spain is a residence permit tailored to meet the needs of international remote workers seeking to live and work in Spain while continuing their work activities for overseas companies. The objective of this innovative visa is to attract international talent and foster a multicultural, dynamic environment in Spain, as outlined in the Spanish government regulatory guidelines approved at the end of 2022.
This blog post examines the legal requirements for South African remote workers interested in the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa. It also offers valuable insights into the advantages and challenges associated with the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa.
Who is eligible for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa?
Within the Spanish visa context, the term “digital nomad” is used to describe Non-EU professionals who are able to work remotely and choose to live in different countries. So, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is open to any national of a non-European Union country, such as South Africa, who are employed by a company registered as a non-Spanish entity operating outside of Spain and have been engaged in their current role for a minimum of three years. South African digital nomads who are self-employed may still apply for the digital nomad visa and work for a company in Spain, provided that the percentage of this work does not exceed 20% of their total professional activity.
Spain offers two visas for remote workers: a digital nomad visa (valid for one year) and a digital nomad residency permit (valid for three years). The visas serve the same purpose but are issued in different ways. The digital nomad visa can be obtained in South Africa, while the digital nomad residency permit must be obtained in Spain.
In simple term, If you are a South African who can relocate to Spain for at least a year and work remotely, you can get a Spanish digital nomad visa. This applies to any profession, Spain welcomes software developers, graphic designers, writers, Instagram influencers and more….
What are the Requirements for the Spanish digital nomad visa?
In accordance with the guidelines established by the Spanish government, South African applicants are required to fulfil the following criteria in order to qualify for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Higher education degrees or professional experience
Applicants must possess either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a university, college, or business school. In the case of professional experience, a minimum of three years is required.
- Proof of employment
Applicants must demonstrate that they have been employed by a foreign company for a minimum of three months or have a work relationship with international clients that has been in place for the same duration if they are self-employed.
In the event that applicants are employees of a company, they must provide evidence of the company’s actual and ongoing business activity, as well as documentation that shows the work relationship is conducted remotely and the terms and conditions of the remote work.
- Proof of sufficient income
Applicants are required to meet a minimum income threshold in order to qualify for the visa. This ensures that they will have the necessary financial resources to support themselves throughout their stay in Spain. The applicant’s income is calculated based on the minimum salary in Spain, which is referred to as the SMI. In 2024, the average salary in Spain is estimated to be 1,134 euros. In order to qualify for a visa, a digital nomad must earn at least twice this amount. Consequently, a South African applicant must provide proof of a monthly income of approximately of at least 2,000 euros and a bank statement showing a balance of at least 25,000 euros.
- Clean Police clearance certificate
A clean criminal record is a prerequisite for Spain’s digital nomad visa. Applicants are required to submit an original and a copy of a South African police clearance certificate, as well as a declaration confirming the absence of a criminal record within the last five years.
5.Proof of address in Spain
Applicants are required to provide proof of address in Spain. Evidence may be provided in the form of a rental agreement, hotel reservation, or a letter of invitation from a host.
- Medical Aid in Spain
Finally, applicants are required to provide proof of a valid private medical aid in Spain that offers benefits comparable to those available to Spanish residents.
What are the advantages of the Spanish digital nomad visa for South Africans?
- Residency in the EU: The Spain Digital Nomad Visa provides South African remote workers with the opportunity to reside and work in Spain for an extended period.
- Family Inclusion: This Spanish visa provides the opportunity to bring along family dependents.
- Travel without visas within the Schengen Area: Successful applicants from South Africa will be granted freedom of travel within the Schengen Zone, which comprises 27 European countries.
- Tax Benefits: Digital Nomad Visa holders who are employed or entrepreneurs may be eligible for more favourable taxation under the special Non-Resident Income Tax Regime.
- Cultural Experience: Spain offers a unique opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage, benefit from affordable living costs, and enjoy a high quality of life.
- Citizenship and Permanent Residence Pathway: After five years of continuous residence in Spain, South African can obtain permanent residency and, after another five years, apply for citizenship.
Common Challenges and Tips for a Successful Visa Application
Applying for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa presents both exciting and challenging opportunities for South Africans. It is essential to be aware of the common challenges and how to overcome them.
- Incomplete Documentation: Please ensure that all the required documents are complete and accurate. Please verify that all forms are completed accurately and that you have included all the necessary supporting documentation.
- Language Barrier: All documents must be submitted in Spanish. Any supporting documents in English must be officially translated by a certified translator in South Africa.
- Meeting Income Requirements: Applicants must meet minimum income requirements to qualify for the visa. Be prepared to provide proof of income or a minimum balance to demonstrate financial stability.
- Medical Aid and Accommodation: Secure private medical aid coverage in Spain and provide proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay.
Do you need certified Spanish translation to support your Spanish Digital Nomad Visa application?
Spanish Translation offers certified translation services for Spanish Digital Nomad Visa application. We offer fast turnaround times, competitive rates and excellent customer service. We translate HPCSA medical certificates, police clearance certificates, Apostilles and other documents required for Spanish visa applications. In addition to translations, we can also notarise and apostille your documents.
If you’re looking for accurate and reliable sworn translations from a small team of passionate translators, contact us today. Tel: 012 348 3134; Mobile: 081 347 6060; Email: info@spanishtranslation.co.za.
We are eager to talk to you and address any questions you may have.
