Can I bring my spouse and children to Spain on the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children to Spain on the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa. This visa allows eligible applicants to include their immediate family members, making it an attractive option for digital nomads seeking to relocate with their loved ones. However, certain conditions and requirements must be met to successfully include family members in your application.
Eligibility Requirements
To bring your spouse and children to Spain under the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, you must first meet the eligibility criteria for the visa yourself. This includes demonstrating that you have a stable income from remote work conducted for companies outside of Spain. Generally, applicants should show a minimum monthly income of around $2,500, but this amount can vary. In addition to the primary applicant’s requirements, family members must also meet specific criteria.
Your spouse and children will need to prove their dependency status, which means your spouse should be legally married to you or registered as a domestic partner, and your children should typically be under 18 years of age or dependent on you due to disabilities or full-time education. It’s important to have all necessary documentation, such as marriage and birth certificates, fully translated and legalized for the application process.
Application Process
The application process to bring your family to Spain on the Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps. First, gather all necessary documentation, including proof of income, employment contracts, and legal documents proving your relationship to your spouse and children. The next step involves applying for the visa at the Spanish consulate that has jurisdiction over your place of residence in the United States.
Each family member must submit a separate application, but these are typically processed together. You will need to provide proof of financial resources sufficient to support your family in Spain, which usually means showing an additional amount per family member, often around 75% of the primary applicant’s required income. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months.
Rights and Benefits
Once your family members have successfully obtained their visas, they will be granted the right to reside in Spain for the duration of your Digital Nomad Visa, which is initially valid for one year with the possibility of renewal. During this time, your spouse can legally reside in Spain, and your children can attend school or daycare. However, it’s important to note that the visa does not automatically grant work rights to spouses. If your spouse wishes to work while in Spain, they may need to apply for a separate work permit.
Comparison with Other Visas
The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is specifically designed for remote workers, offering a unique opportunity to live in Spain while continuing to work for a foreign employer. In contrast, the Spanish NLV is more suited for those who do not plan to work, as it requires proof of sufficient financial means without the need for employment. While both visas allow for family accompaniment, the specific requirements and suitability can vary depending on your individual circumstances and long-term plans.
While this residency permit is ideal for retirees, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers seeking an enriching lifestyle in Spain without leaving their jobs abroad.
Additional Considerations
When planning to bring your family to Spain, consider the cost of living in different regions, as this can vary significantly. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona tend to have higher living expenses compared to smaller towns or rural areas. Additionally, having private health insurance is mandatory for visa holders, and you should ensure that your policy covers all family members for the entire duration of your stay in Spain.
Educational opportunities for children are also an important consideration. Spain offers a range of public, private, and international schools, so researching your options and understanding the local education system can help you make the best choice for your family.
For more details, check out our comprehensive guide – Spanish immigration guide.
Planning your move to Spain? Reach out now or book a 45-minute Zoom consultation to get expert guidance tailored to your situation.
