My Experience Getting the Spain Digital Nomad Visa as an American

Spain has always been a country close to my heart, and when the Spain Digital Nomad Visa was announced, I knew this was my chance to make it my home. If you’re an American looking to live and work remotely in Spain, I’m sharing my journey—what worked, what didn’t, and essential tips to help make your process smoother.
Why I Chose Spain as My Home Base
When I first started traveling full-time, I never imagined settling down in one country. I loved the thrill of exploring, moving from city to city, never tied to one place. But after visiting Barcelona, Spain, something felt different—it instantly felt like home.
At the time, the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) didn’t exist, and the only long-term option was a student visa. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to commit to schooling just to stay, so I kept traveling, making my way across Europe and Asia.
By 2023, something shifted. I was tired of hopping around, longing for a base where I could work, live, and still explore. That’s when Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa, and I knew this was my opportunity.
This visa allows remote workers and freelancers to legally live in Spain for up to three years (with the possibility of extending for another two years). While the taxes are high, the lifestyle, affordability, and central European location made it the perfect choice for me.
Applying for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa – What You Need to Know
When the visa was first introduced, the requirements kept changing frequently, and they still do! Below, I’m breaking down the key requirements (as of 2024) and what you need to prepare before applying.
1. FBI Background Check – Start This ASAP
If you’re an American applying for any visa in Spain, you’ll need an FBI background check. The process is time-consuming, so start this first!
Steps:
- Submit fingerprints (you might need to schedule an appt with the police department if abroad).
- Request your Identity History Summary (aka background check) from the FBI.
- Get the document apostilled (this can take 1-3 months).
🔗 Helpful Resources:
2. Proof of Income – Show You Can Support Yourself
Spain requires remote workers to prove financial stability. This amount changes frequently, but as of now (2024), the minimum income requirement is €2,763 per month before taxes for individuals.
📌 Checklist for Proof of Income:
✅ Have you worked with your employer/clients for at least 3 months?
✅ Can your employer/clients provide a letter allowing you to work remotely from Spain?
✅ Do you have 3 years of professional experience or a degree related to your field?
✅ If you’re self-employed, are your clients registered businesses?
How I did it: Since I’m self-employed, I submitted:
- Last 3 months of bank statements
- Proof of consistent income from my clients exceeding the required monthly amount
- Sent my college degree certificate along with employer letters confirming 3+ years of professional experience in my field
- Provided my client’s certificate of good standing (apostilled) to prove they are a registered business
🔗 Helpful Resources
3. Health Insurance – Public or Private?
If you work for yourself, you’ll need to show proof of public or private health insurance that meets Spanish requirements.
💡 Tip: If you pay into Spain’s Social Security (Seguridad Social) after getting your visa, you’ll be covered under public health insurance. You can also get private insurance later, but it’s not required for the initial application.
4. Remote Work Status – Proof That You Work Remotely
To qualify for the visa, you must prove your work is 100% remote.
✅ If you’re employed: Submit a remote work contract.
✅ If you’re self-employed: Show client contracts, invoices, and bank statements.
5. Criminal Record Check
You’ll need a criminal record certificate from every country you’ve lived in the past five years, translated and apostilled.
🚀 Start this early—it’s the most time-consuming part!
6. NIE Number, Digital Certificate & Spanish Bank Account
To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, you must have:
- NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
- Digital Certificate
- Spanish Bank Account
Most people don’t have these, which is why many hire a lawyer to handle the process.
How I Applied – My Lawyer & Costs
While you can apply on your own, I hired a lawyer, which saved time, stress, and mistakes. Some lawyers charge €1,000-€5,000 (insane!), but I found one for €400.
If you want a reliable lawyer, I recommend mine—he’s based in Madrid and has firsthand experience with this visa. You can book a consultation here! Make sure you mention my name NANCY when you speak with him so he knows where you found him. 🙂
Living in Spain – Next Steps After Getting the Visa
1️⃣ Learn Spanish – It makes daily life easier! I take lessons at NL College in Gràcia, Barcelona (find out more information here).
2️⃣ Have more questions on the Digital Nomad visa? – Join Facebook groups like:
3️⃣ Find a Long-Term Apartment – If you need a guide on renting an apartment in Spain, let me know—I’ll write a post soon!
Final Thoughts – Should You Apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
If you want a long-term home in Spain while working remotely, this visa is a fantastic option. The process isn’t instant, but if you plan ahead and follow the steps, you’ll be living in Spain before you know it!
📩 Got questions? Drop a comment below or email me at hello@fancynancista.com—I’m happy to help!
Want more Spain expat tips? Let me know what you’d like to read about next! 🏡☀️