Which is more suitable for part-time retirees who do freelance work: the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa or the Non-Lucrative Visa?

For American part-time retirees who engage in freelance work, the **Spanish Digital Nomad Visa** may be more suitable as it explicitly permits remote work while residing in Spain. In contrast, the **Non-Lucrative Visa** is designed for those not engaging in any form of professional activity, although it allows residency without the need to work.

Eligibility Requirements

The eligibility requirements for each visa vary significantly, and understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the right option. The **Spanish Digital Nomad Visa** is designed for individuals who wish to work remotely for non-Spanish companies. Applicants must prove they have been employed or have had a business relationship with their current employer or clients for at least three months and that this relationship will continue while they are in Spain. Additionally, they need to demonstrate that their work can be done remotely and provide proof of an income that meets the financial threshold set by the Spanish government, which is currently around $28,000 annually.

On the other hand, the **Non-Lucrative Visa** is tailored for those who have sufficient financial means to support themselves without engaging in work or professional activities in Spain. Applicants must prove financial independence, typically through savings or passive income such as pensions. The minimum income requirement is approximately $30,000 per year, with additional funds necessary for dependents.

Application Process

The application process for the **Spanish Digital Nomad Visa** involves several steps that include gathering documentation to prove employment status, income, and remote work capability. Applicants will need to apply through the Spanish consulate in their home country and include a detailed work plan and health insurance that is valid in Spain.

For the **Non-Lucrative Visa**, the process is slightly different. Applicants must also apply at the Spanish consulate but will need to provide proof of financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. The application will necessitate an interview, and processing times can vary, often taking several months.

Comparison with Other Visas

While this residency permit is ideal for retirees, the Spanish Remote Working Visa is designed for remote workers who need to maintain employment or a freelance career while enjoying the Spanish lifestyle. This visa allows you to continue earning income from outside Spain while living there, making it a more flexible option for those still engaged in work.

In contrast, the **Non-Lucrative Visa** is more suitable for those who have fully retired or who do not need to work to support themselves. This visa does not permit working in Spain, which could be a limitation for freelancers who need to continue generating income. However, for those who meet the financial requirements without needing to work, the Spain visa for retirees and non-workers could be a more straightforward option.

Legal Considerations

It is crucial to adhere to the legal stipulations of each visa to avoid complications. The **Spanish Digital Nomad Visa** specifically allows remote work, but this work must be for non-Spanish entities. Engaging in business activities with Spanish companies or clients could violate the visa terms and lead to legal issues.

The **Non-Lucrative Visa** does not permit any form of work, so even part-time freelance work could breach visa conditions. Retirees who wish to engage in any professional activity, even minimally, should consider this restriction carefully.

Financial Implications

Both visas require proof of financial stability, but they differ in terms of what this entails. The **Spanish Digital Nomad Visa** requires proof of ongoing income from remote work, which can be advantageous for freelancers with a steady client base. The financial threshold is slightly lower than the Non-Lucrative Visa, potentially making it more accessible for part-time workers.

The **Non-Lucrative Visa** demands higher savings or passive income, reflecting its intent for non-working residents. This might be challenging for some freelancers unless they have substantial savings or retirement funds.

For more details, check out our comprehensive guide – Living in Spain as an Expat – The Complete How To.

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