Can my girlfriend stay with me in Spain while applying for her own Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, your girlfriend can stay with you in Spain while applying for her own Digital Nomad Visa, provided she meets the visa requirements and submits her application on time. She must ensure her stay is legal during this period, typically by being in Spain on a tourist visa or another short-term permit that allows her to remain in the country temporarily.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain, your girlfriend must primarily demonstrate that she can work remotely for a company based outside of Spain. This visa is designed for non-EU citizens who are employed by non-Spanish companies or are self-employed with foreign clients. She will need to provide proof of employment or freelance contracts, along with financial stability evidence, such as pay stubs or bank statements, to show a steady income stream.

In addition to employment verification, she must meet certain financial criteria, often requiring a monthly minimum income threshold. As of the last update, this amount typically equates to approximately $2,500 per month, but it’s advisable to check the latest requirements as they can change. Moreover, valid health insurance coverage in Spain is mandatory for the duration of her stay.

Application Process

Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps, starting with gathering all necessary documentation. These documents include a valid passport, proof of remote work capability, financial stability, and health insurance. Once she has compiled these, she needs to submit her application through the Spanish consulate or embassy in her home country, unless she is already in Spain on a valid visa that allows for a change of status.

After submission, the processing time can vary, often taking several weeks. During this period, she can legally stay in Spain on her tourist visa, provided it remains valid and she adheres to its conditions. If she needs to extend her stay while waiting for the visa decision, she should consider applying for a visa extension or exploring other visa options that allow longer stays. For instance, the Non-Lucrative Visa can be an alternative for those not engaged in employment but wishing to reside in Spain.

Legal Considerations

While staying in Spain, it is crucial for your girlfriend to maintain legal status. This means she must not overstay her tourist visa or any other temporary permit she holds. Overstaying can lead to penalties or future entry bans, which could complicate her Digital Nomad Visa application or any future visa requests.

Additionally, she should be mindful of tax obligations. Spending more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year may classify her as a tax resident, requiring her to pay taxes on worldwide income. Consulting with a tax professional familiar with Spanish law is recommended to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected liabilities.

Comparison with Other Visas

While this type of residence permit is ideal for retirees, the Work remotely from Spain visa is designed for remote workers who wish to live in Spain without engaging in local employment. This makes it a more suitable option for digital nomads compared to options like the tourist visa, which only allows short-term stays with no work permissions.

Another alternative, the Non-Lucrative Visa, permits longer stays without employment in Spain, beneficial for those who can financially support themselves without working. However, unlike the Digital Nomad Visa, it does not permit any form of employment, even remote work for foreign companies.

Tips for a Smooth Stay

For your girlfriend to have a hassle-free stay in Spain, it’s advisable to keep a checklist of all required documents and ensure they are up-to-date. Staying informed about the latest immigration regulations and deadlines is crucial for timely application submission.

Familiarizing herself with the local culture and language can also enhance her experience and integration into Spanish society. Numerous language schools and online courses are available to help improve her Spanish proficiency, making daily interactions and bureaucratic processes smoother.

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.