Can my girlfriend apply for residency if I have the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, your girlfriend can apply for residency in Spain if you hold a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, but she would not be eligible as a dependent under your visa. Instead, she would need to apply for her own visa, such as the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa, which allows non-working residency.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for her own residency, your girlfriend must meet specific eligibility requirements under the visa category she chooses. For the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa, she must demonstrate financial stability, proving she can sustain herself without engaging in any professional activities in Spain. This requires showing sufficient savings or regular income, typically amounting to at least €27,115 (approximately $30,000) annually, along with additional funds for dependents.

Additionally, she would need to provide proof of private health insurance valid in Spain, a clean criminal record certificate, and a medical certificate confirming she does not have any diseases that could pose public health risks. Each document must be translated into Spanish and, in some cases, apostilled.

Application Process

The application process for a residency visa in Spain involves several steps. First, your girlfriend must gather all necessary documentation, ensuring each document meets the Spanish consulate’s requirements in her jurisdiction. She will then need to submit her application at the Spanish consulate, either by appointment or via a designated submission process, depending on the specific consulate’s protocols.

After submission, the consulate will review her application, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If approved, she will receive a visa allowing her to enter Spain, where she can then apply for her residency card (TIE) within 30 days of her arrival.

Comparison with Other Visas

If your girlfriend is considering alternative visa options, the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is a popular choice for those who do not plan to work while in Spain. While this type of residence permit is ideal for retirees, the Work remotely from Spain visa is designed for remote workers who maintain employment with companies outside of Spain. Each visa type has its own specific benefits and requirements, so it’s crucial to evaluate them based on her individual circumstances and future plans.

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.