Can my partner work in Spain if they’re a dependent on my Digital Nomad Visa?
No, your partner cannot work in Spain if they are a dependent on your Digital Nomad Visa. This visa is specifically designed for remote workers who are employed outside of Spain, and dependents are not granted the right to work under this visa category. To work legally in Spain, your partner would need to apply for a separate work visa.
Eligibility Requirements
The Digital Nomad Visa is tailored for individuals who work remotely for companies outside of Spain. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a stable income from a non-Spanish company, proving that they can financially support themselves and any dependents. While your partner can join you as a dependent, they must prove their relationship to you, which can typically be done through marriage or a registered partnership.
It’s important to note that dependents, including your partner, must also have adequate health insurance coverage and a clear criminal record. While they can reside in Spain with you, the visa does not automatically grant them the right to work within the country.
Application Process
The application process for the Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps, starting with gathering necessary documentation such as proof of remote employment, income stability, and health insurance. Dependents must provide documentation that proves their relationship to the primary visa holder.
Once all documents are assembled, applications are submitted to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country. It is crucial to ensure that all documents are translated into Spanish and apostilled. The approval process may take several weeks, so planning ahead is advisable.
Comparison with Other Visas
While the Digital Nomad Visa is an excellent option for remote workers, it does not offer work rights to dependents. In contrast, other visas, like the Spain visa for retirees and non-workers, allow residents to live in Spain without working, but neither grant work rights to dependents. If your partner wishes to work in Spain, they might consider applying for a work visa independently.
The Remote Work Visa is designed for remote workers who are employed by companies outside of Spain, and it provides a legal pathway for them to reside in Spain. However, this visa does not extend work rights to dependents, which is a significant consideration for families planning a move.
Alternative Options for Dependents
If your partner is keen on working in Spain, they may need to explore alternative visa options. One common choice is the Spanish work visa, which requires securing a job offer from a Spanish company. The employer must then sponsor the visa application, which involves navigating Spain’s labor market test to prove that no suitable Spanish or EU candidate could fill the position.
Another potential route is the Entrepreneur Visa, which is available to those who plan to start a business in Spain. This visa is contingent on presenting a viable business plan that contributes to the Spanish economy, and it allows for legal work within the country.
Living in Spain as a Dependent
Although your partner cannot work while on a dependent status under the Digital Nomad Visa, they can enjoy the lifestyle and cultural benefits of living in Spain. Spain offers a high quality of life with its excellent healthcare system, diverse cultural experiences, and favorable climate.
Dependents can also engage in educational opportunities, travel within the Schengen Area, and potentially volunteer or partake in internships, depending on specific regulations. It’s an opportunity to immerse in the Spanish language and culture while residing in a vibrant European nation.
For more details, check out our comprehensive guide – Make Spain your Home – Complete Guide.
Need help moving to Spain and not sure where to start? Contact us today or set up a Zoom consult and we’ll help you explore your options.
