The way we work has changed. In recent years we did not think that we could do our tasks from home. And the fact is that telecommuting or teleworking has become a viable and attractive work option in Spain. According to data from the Active Population Survey (EPA) of the National Statistics Institute (INE), in the second quarter of 2024, 7.6% of employed people worked from home more than half of the days, which represents 1.641.000 people.

If you are thinking of starting a new life in Spain and telecommuting in a paradise where your quality of life will be different, stay in this article that explains everything you need to know to become a digital nomad in this country.

Why choose Spain for remote work?

More and more people are turning to a Spanish immigration lawyer to start a new life in this country. The fact that it is one of the favourite destinations for foreigners is due to several factors. The quality of life in this country is admirable.

Regions such as the Valencian Community and the Canary Islands enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine a year, which contributes to a high quality of life and well-being.

Another reason why they choose Spain is because of its coworking spaces and good connectivity. The country has a well-developed Internet infrastructure, with broadband coverage reaching 95% of the population, making it perfect for digital nomads.

In case you would like to move to this country, you should know that for many newcomers, navigating the legal process is a key step toward building a life in Spain. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or entrepreneur, working with an immigration lawyer can help you obtain residency smoothly and ensure that all documentation is handled correctly from the start.

Legal requirements for remote working in Spain

To work remotely from Spain, it is important to know the legal requirements and visa options available.

Do you need a visa to work remotely in Spain?

Yes, if you decide to start a new life in Spain and you are not a citizen of the European Union, you will need a visa to be able to work telematically. For this, one of the best and most recent options is the digital nomad visa for Spain.

Digital nomad visa Spain: who is eligible?

The digital nomad visa is intended for professionals who work remotely for foreign companies or who are self-employed with international clients. Applicants must demonstrate an employment or professional relationship of at least three months with the company or clients, and that the company has been operational for at least one year.

In addition, they must have at least three years of professional experience or be graduates of recognized universities.

Taxes and social security for remote workers in Spain

Before you pack your bags, pick up your computer and start living in Spain, you need to know what taxes you will face in this new adventure.

Tax residency rules

A person is considered a tax resident in Spain if he/she stays in the country for more than 183 days in a calendar year. Tax residents are subject to Personal Income Tax (IRPF) on their worldwide income.

Social security contributions

Remote workers must pay Spanish social security contributions, unless there is a bilateral agreement to the contrary.

Double taxation agreements

Spain has double taxation agreements with numerous countries to avoid income being taxed in both countries. It is advisable to consult these agreements to understand the specific tax obligations.

Best places to live and work remotely in Spain

Some of the best cities to start being a digital nomad are the following. All of them are characterized by a good quality of life and have the necessary infrastructure to be able to perform well your work remotely:

• Barcelona
• Madrid
• Alicante
• Valencia
• Canary Islands

Challenges of remote working in Spain

Although working remotely from Spain has many advantages, you may also encounter some problems.

One of them has to do with bureaucracy. To become a digital nomad you have to go through a process of a lot of documentation and administrative issues. This can be complex and tedious, so it is advisable to put yourself in the hands of experts so that they can advise you at all times and can submit the application for you.

Other challenges you may encounter are working hours. Your country may work certain hours that Spain does not, but with good communication and coordination with the international teams, everything will work out.

The rental market in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona can be competitive and expensive. It is recommended to book temporary housing upon arrival and then look for long-term options.

How to move to Spain as a remote worker with Pellicer & Heredia

For those who wish to move to Spain as remote workers, the law firm Pellicer & Heredia offers advice to manage all the necessary procedures.

The digital nomad visa can be applied for at the Spanish consulates in the country of origin or directly in Spain, within the first 90 days of stay with a tourist visa.

In addition, you will need to open a bank account and these lawyers in Alicante will help you with all the necessary paperwork to start your new life in Spain.