Can I include dependents in my Spanish Digital Nomad Visa application?

Yes, you can include dependents in your Spanish Digital Nomad Visa application. This visa allows you to bring your spouse and children, provided they meet specific requirements. Understanding these requirements and the application process will ensure a seamless transition for your family to live and work remotely from Spain.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying to include dependents in your Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, you must first ensure that your family members meet the eligibility criteria. Your dependents can include your spouse, registered partner, and children under the age of 18. In some cases, dependent children over 18 who are financially dependent on you can also be included.

Proof of relationship is necessary, so you must provide marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children. Additionally, all dependents must have valid passports and, where applicable, visas or residence permits for their current country of residence.

It’s crucial to demonstrate that you can financially support your dependents while living in Spain. The income threshold increases with the addition of dependents. For each additional family member, you may need to show an increase in income by approximately 25% beyond the base requirement for the primary applicant.

Application Process

The application process for including dependents in your Spanish Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps. Each dependent must be listed on your application and will require their own set of supporting documents. These documents, such as marriage and birth certificates, must be translated into Spanish and apostilled.

Begin by gathering all necessary documentation for both yourself and your dependents. You will need to submit proof of your employment as a digital nomad, demonstrating that you can work remotely for a non-Spanish company. Additionally, you’ll need to provide evidence of your financial stability, including bank statements and income proof.

Once you have compiled the necessary documentation, submit your application to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your jurisdiction. It’s important to note that processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended move.

Financial Requirements

Meeting the financial requirements is a critical part of including dependents in your visa application. As the primary applicant, you must prove that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family while in Spain. The financial threshold is generally set at 200% of the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) for the main applicant, which is approximately $2,500 per month in 2023.

For each additional dependent, you should expect to demonstrate an additional 25% of the IPREM, which is about $625 per month per dependent. Ensure that your bank statements clearly reflect your ability to meet these financial obligations over the duration of your stay in Spain.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is another key requirement for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa. Both the primary applicant and their dependents must have comprehensive health insurance coverage in Spain. This insurance should be with a provider authorized to operate in Spain and must offer coverage equivalent to that of the Spanish public health system.

When including dependents, ensure each family member is individually covered. The insurance policy must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Spain and should not include any co-payments.

Comparison with Other Visas

While the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers and their families, it’s beneficial to compare it with other visa options. For instance, the Non-Lucrative Visa is another option, particularly for those not planning to work while residing in Spain. This residence visa is ideal for retirees or individuals with passive income sources, as it does not permit any professional or business activities.

On the other hand, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa specifically caters to individuals who work remotely for international employers, making it a better fit for digital nomads and their dependents who wish to reside in Spain.

Common Challenges and Tips

When applying to include dependents in your visa application, be prepared for potential challenges. One common hurdle is ensuring all documents are correctly translated and apostilled. Consider hiring a professional translation service familiar with Spanish legal requirements to avoid any delays.

Another challenge can be meeting the financial requirements, especially if you have several dependents. Ensure your financial documentation is comprehensive and clearly demonstrates your ability to support your family.

Lastly, the application process can be time-consuming, so start early and stay organized. Keep a checklist of all required documents and deadlines to ensure a smoother application experience.

For more details, check out our comprehensive guide – How to move to Spain – The Complete How To.

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