Do both the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa and the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa count toward permanent residency in Spain?

Yes, both the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa and the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa can count toward permanent residency in Spain. However, they serve different purposes and have distinct eligibility requirements. Understanding the specifics of each visa type is crucial for long-term planning and achieving permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements

The eligibility criteria for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa primarily focus on individuals who can work remotely for companies outside of Spain. Applicants must demonstrate a stable income from their remote work and maintain a professional relationship with a non-Spanish company. This visa is designed for digital nomads who wish to reside in Spain while working online.

In contrast, the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa is tailored for individuals who do not intend to engage in any work or professional activities in Spain. Applicants must show proof of sufficient financial resources to support themselves without employment. This visa is often chosen by retirees or those seeking a temporary yet extended stay in Spain. For more information on similar visa options, you can explore the Spain retirement visa.

Application Process

Applying for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa requires submitting a series of documents, including proof of income, remote work contracts, and possibly a letter from your employer confirming your remote work arrangement. The application is typically submitted through the Spanish consulate in your home country.

The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa application involves presenting financial statements, health insurance coverage, and possibly a medical certificate. Like the Digital Nomad Visa, this application is also submitted at the Spanish consulate. The process can take several months, so it’s advisable to plan ahead.

Comparison with Other Visas

While this residence visa is ideal for retirees, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers seeking to blend work and travel. Both visas allow for long-term residency, with opportunities to renew and eventually apply for permanent residency. However, other visa types, such as the work permit visa, require direct employment with a Spanish company and offer a different path toward residency.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Both the Digital Nomad Visa and the Non-Lucrative Visa provide a pathway to permanent residency. After residing in Spain legally and continuously for five years on either visa, individuals may apply for permanent residency. This status grants more rights similar to those of a Spanish citizen, including the ability to work freely within Spain.

It’s crucial to maintain legal status throughout the residency and not violate any visa conditions, as this could impact eligibility for permanent residency. Regular renewals and meeting financial requirements are essential for maintaining the pathway to permanent residency.

Financial Considerations

For the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must demonstrate an income that meets or exceeds the minimum threshold set by Spanish authorities. This is to ensure that the individual can support themselves without relying on Spanish social services. The Non-Lucrative Visa requires proof of sufficient savings or passive income to cover living expenses for the duration of the stay.

In both cases, financial planning is essential, as living in Spain involves costs such as housing, healthcare, and general living expenses. Applicants should budget carefully and ensure they meet the financial criteria for the duration of their stay.

Renewal Process

Both visas require periodic renewal, typically every one to two years. The renewal process involves proving continued eligibility, such as ongoing employment for digital nomads or financial sufficiency for non-lucrative residents. Renewals are crucial for maintaining legal residency status and working toward permanent residency.

Timely renewal applications are essential to avoid lapses in residency status, which could affect the ability to apply for permanent residency after the five-year period.

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

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