Can I be a digital nomad in Spain as a remote CPA?

Yes, you can be a digital nomad in Spain as a remote CPA. Spain offers specific visa options that cater to remote workers, including certified public accountants (CPAs) who wish to live in this beautiful country. By meeting the necessary requirements, you can enjoy Spain’s vibrant culture while continuing your professional activities remotely.

Eligibility Requirements

To work remotely as a CPA in Spain, you must first ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a suitable visa. The most relevant option for digital nomads is the digital nomad visa, officially known as the International Teleworking Visa. This visa is targeted at individuals who wish to live in Spain while working for non-Spanish companies remotely.

Key eligibility requirements for this visa include:

• Remote Work Arrangement: You must provide evidence that you work remotely for a non-Spanish company or have a freelance contract with clients outside Spain.
• Proof of Employment or Business Activity: Documentation such as employment contracts or business registration details that show your capability to work as a CPA remotely.
• Minimum Income Requirement: You must meet a specific income threshold, often around $2,500 per month, to ensure you can support yourself financially while living in Spain.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage is required to ensure your medical needs are met while residing in Spain.

Additionally, you must not have any criminal record, and you should be able to provide a clean background check from your home country or any country you have resided in during the last five years.

Application Process

The application process for the digital nomad visa involves several steps and the submission of various documents:

1. Gather Necessary Documents: Prepare all required documents, including proof of income, remote work arrangement evidence, health insurance, and background checks.
2. Submit Your Application: You can submit your application at a Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country. Ensure all documents are translated into Spanish and properly notarized.
3. Pay the Application Fee: The visa application fee varies, but it typically ranges from $70 to $150, depending on your nationality.
4. Attend an Interview: You may be required to attend an interview to discuss your application and provide additional information if requested.
5. Receive Your Visa: If approved, you will receive your digital nomad visa, allowing you to enter Spain and begin your new life as a remote CPA.

Once in Spain, you need to register with local authorities and obtain a Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE) to formalize your residency.

Comparison with Other Visas

While the digital nomad visa is an excellent option for remote CPAs, it’s worth considering other visas that might be suitable based on your circumstances. For example, the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is an option for those who do not intend to work in Spain but have sufficient financial resources to live there. This visa requires proof of substantial savings or passive income.

On the other hand, the Work remotely from Spain visa is specifically designed for remote workers like CPAs who want to continue their professional activities while residing in Spain. It offers a more streamlined process for those who meet the remote work criteria and can demonstrate their ongoing employment with non-Spanish entities.

Living as a Digital Nomad in Spain

Spain offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. As a CPA working remotely, you can benefit from Spain’s robust internet infrastructure, coworking spaces, and the opportunity to network with other professionals.

Popular cities for digital nomads include Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia, each offering a distinct lifestyle and community. Barcelona is known for its vibrant tech scene and beautiful beaches, while Madrid offers a rich cultural experience as the capital city. Valencia provides a more relaxed atmosphere with a lower cost of living and a thriving expat community.

Spain also offers a favorable work-life balance, with a strong emphasis on leisure and social life. You can enjoy the Mediterranean climate, explore historical sites, and indulge in the diverse culinary delights that the country has to offer.

Tax Considerations for CPAs in Spain

As a remote CPA in Spain, it’s crucial to understand the tax implications of living and working there. Spain has a tax residency rule, which considers you a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in the country within a calendar year. As a tax resident, you would be subject to Spanish income tax on your worldwide income.

However, Spain has double taxation agreements with many countries, including the United States, which can help prevent being taxed twice on the same income. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to navigate these complexities and ensure compliance with both Spanish and U.S. tax obligations.

For more details, check out our comprehensive guide – Immigrate to Spain – The Definitive Guide.

Got questions about living in Spain? Get in touch or chat with us on Zoom to find the best visa route for your move.