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Does the Spanish NLV Allow You to Work Remotely?

The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for individuals who want to live in Spain without engaging in local employment or business activities.

While it explicitly prohibits you from working for a Spanish company or starting a business within Spain, there is a common question:

Can you work remotely for a non-Spanish company?

Remote Work for Non-Spanish Employers

Technically, yes, you can work remotely while holding a Non-Lucrative Visa, as long as your income comes from outside Spain. The visa is tailored for individuals with passive income, savings, or income generated abroad.

If you’re employed by a foreign company or you run a business registered in another country, you are not violating the visa terms. This is why the visa is popular among digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers who can earn a living independently of Spain’s local economy.

However, it’s essential to ensure that all your income is declared and managed according to tax regulations in both your home country and Spain. Living in Spain for more than 183 days a year generally qualifies you as a tax resident, meaning you may be subject to Spanish taxation. Seeking professional advice on tax compliance is highly recommended to avoid legal complications.

What You Cannot Do

It’s important to note that you cannot engage in local employment in Spain.

This means:

  • No contract work for Spanish companies
  • No self-employed business operations that directly involve the Spanish market
  • No consulting, freelancing, or side work for Spanish clients

The visa’s focus is to allow foreigners to live in Spain as long as they are financially self-sufficient and not competing in the local job market.

Next Steps for Remote Workers Interested in Spain

If you’re a remote worker with foreign clients or an income source outside of Spain, the Non-Lucrative Visa could be a great option for relocating to Spain.

To ensure your application is successful, you must provide solid proof of income or savings and health insurance coverage.

If you’re unsure whether this visa is right for you or have questions about the application process, book a consultation with us today.

Our team of immigration experts can guide you through the requirements and ensure your move to Spain is seamless. Click here to schedule your consultation now.

David Poole is a South African entrepreneur and businessman, and founder of Consult Immigration.