Move over UAE and Portugal, Spain is now making waves as the ultimate digital nomad paradise. According to the latest Digital Nomad Visa Index by VisaGuide.World, Spain has clinched the top spot for the world’s best digital nomad visa, giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “sun, sea, and spreadsheets.”
Spain’s high ranking has left countries like Argentina, Romania, and Uruguay in the dust. Even Croatia, the newest kid on the EU and Schengen Area block, couldn’t hold a candle to Spain despite the country’s notable strides in attracting digital nomads. According to the report, there is much more to Spain than its beautiful landscapes and paella, making it ideal for digital nomads.
The Affordable Spanish Way Of Life
First up, let’s talk about money – because, let’s face it, we all love saving some green. The cost of living in Spain is very affordable. We’re talking about managing a minimum of €673 per month, or $726. On top of the low price of living, Spain’s digital nomad visa has an attainable minimum income requirement. To apply, you must prove an income of at least €2,140 monthly, or approximately $2,308. That’s far from a king’s ransom, making it achievable for most digital nomads.
Then there’s the high internet speed (perfect for your digital ventures) and the first four years of a reduced tax rate. Beyond the financial perks, Spain also boasts an excellent quality of life. The country’s warm climate, diverse geography, and the Mediterranean diet are just a few aspects that contribute to a lifestyle that promotes both productivity and well-being.
Before you start packing your bags, let’s talk about the application process.
Simplified Visa Application Process With Several Perks
The Spanish government has streamlined the visa application process, making it accessible and efficient for applicants. The requirements are clear-cut, and the processing times are swift, with responses typically given within 45 days. This hassle-free approach is a significant factor in the visa’s popularity, as it reduces the bureaucratic hurdles that often discourage potential applicants.
Spain’s digital nomad visa is not just for individual applicants; it also extends to family members. Spouses, partners, and children under 18 can accompany the primary visa holder, and there are provisions for older children and parents under certain conditions. On top of that, traveling visa-free within Schengen nations is a perk of having a Spanish digital nomad visa. This benefit is ideal for digital nomads who want to stay in Spain while they travel around Europe.
However, introducing the digital nomad visa has had some ripple effects. Rents in the Poblenou district of Barcelona, for example, have gone up as a result. Nonetheless, digital nomads continue to find Spain to be an attractive destination.