What documents are needed to renew the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa?

To renew the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must submit several essential documents, including proof of ongoing remote work, valid health insurance, and sufficient financial means. Additionally, an updated criminal background check and evidence of Spanish residency are required. These documents ensure continued compliance with visa conditions.

Eligibility Requirements

Before diving into the specifics of the renewal documents, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility requirements. Applicants must continue to meet the initial visa conditions: being employed or contracted by a company outside Spain, possessing a valid contract or proof of employment, and meeting the minimum income threshold. The income requirement often mirrors the initial application, which is approximately $2,500 per month for an individual. Keeping these eligibility criteria in mind ensures a smoother renewal process.

Required Documents for Renewal

Renewing your Spanish Digital Nomad Visa necessitates a comprehensive set of documents. Below is a detailed list of these requirements:

1. Proof of Continued Employment or Freelance Work

Applicants must submit updated documentation confirming their employment status. This can include recent pay stubs, an updated contract, or a letter from your employer verifying continued remote work. Freelancers should provide invoices or contracts from clients to demonstrate ongoing work.

2. Financial Means

Just like the initial application, proof of financial stability is essential. Bank statements from the last three to six months should clearly show that you meet the required income threshold. This ensures that you can sustain yourself financially while residing in Spain.

3. Health Insurance

Valid health insurance covering you in Spain is mandatory. The insurance policy should offer comprehensive coverage, equivalent to what a Spanish resident would receive. Ensure the policy is active and submit a copy of the insurance certificate or policy document.

4. Criminal Background Check

An updated criminal background check from your country of origin is necessary. The document should be recent (usually not older than three months) and translated into Spanish if originally in another language.

5. Proof of Residency

You must provide evidence of your address in Spain. Acceptable documents include a rental contract, utility bills, or a certificate of registration from the local town hall (empadronamiento).

6. Passport and Visa Copies

Copies of your passport, including all pages with stamps or visas, should be included. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the expiration of your current visa.

Application Process

Renewing your Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps. Start by gathering all required documents well ahead of your visa expiration date. It’s recommended to begin the process at least two months in advance. Once you have all the documents, you can submit them to the immigration office in Spain. Depending on your location, appointments may be necessary, so check with your local office for specific submission procedures.

The processing time for renewals can vary, often taking between one to three months. During this period, you should remain in Spain and ensure your current visa does not expire before the renewal is granted. If you need assistance, many immigration consultancies offer services to help streamline this process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When renewing your visa, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all documents are complete and up-to-date. Missing or outdated paperwork can delay the process.
• Lack of Financial Proof: Make sure your bank statements clearly show sufficient funds. Vague or insufficient financial documentation can lead to rejection.
• Expired Insurance: Confirm that your health insurance is active and meets Spanish requirements to avoid complications.

Comparison with Other Visas

While this visa is ideal for remote workers, the Digital Nomad Visa for Spain ensures you can live and work remotely in the country. Alternatively, if you have a steady passive income, the Spain Passive Income Visa might be more suitable for those who do not intend to work in Spain.

For more details, check out our comprehensive guide – 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.