Spain digital nomad visa in 2026: income requirements and eligibility

The residence permit for international remote workers, the Spain digital nomad visa, has become one of the most popular routes for professionals from the United States and Canada who work remotely. In 2026 there is one change worth knowing about: the minimum income has gone up.

How much you need to earn in 2026

The threshold is based on Spain’s minimum wage (SMI). Royal Decree 126/2026 set it at €1,221 per month over 14 payments (€17,094 per year), which is €1,424.50 when spread over 12 months. On that basis:

• Main applicant: 200% of the SMI, about €2,849 per month (€34,188 per year).
• Spouse, partner or first family member: an extra 75%, about €1,068 per month.
• Each additional family member: an extra 25%, about €356 per month.

A couple would therefore need to show about €3,917 per month, and a couple with one child about €4,273. Some guides publish lower figures for family members because they calculate on 14 payments, so confirm the criterion your consulate applies before you file.

The other requirements

• Remote work for companies outside Spain. Freelancers may also have Spanish clients, as long as that work stays under 20% of the total.
• Qualifications or experience: a university or vocational degree, a qualification from a recognized business school, or at least three years of professional experience.
• Prior relationship: at least three months working with your employer or clients, who must show at least one year of real activity.
• Employer authorization to work remotely from Spain, describing the role and conditions.
• Health insurance with no co-payments or waiting periods, unless you are covered by Spanish Social Security or an agreement.
• Social Security: registration in Spain, or a certificate of coverage from your home country. Both the US and Canada have social security agreements with Spain.
• A clean criminal record for the past five years.

Apply from the US or Canada, or from Spain

You can apply for the visa at the Spanish consulate with jurisdiction over your place of residence, valid for up to one year, or apply for the residence permit directly in Spain if you are already here legally, valid for up to three years and renewable for two-year periods. Your spouse or partner and children can apply at the same time. See our digital nomad visa page for how we handle the process.

Mistakes that lead to refusals

• Income that does not match the contract or the activity you document.
• Failing to show that the company has at least one year of real activity.
• Bank statements that do not match payslips or invoices.
• An employer letter that does not describe the job duties.
• Confusing an employment relationship with a freelance one.
• Health insurance with co-payments, waiting periods or travel-only coverage.

What about taxes?

Living in Spain usually makes you a Spanish tax resident, and US citizens remain subject to US tax rules as well. International remote workers may, in some cases, opt for Spain’s special regime for inbound workers, known as the “Beckham Law”. Plan it with a cross-border tax advisor before you move.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply as a freelancer?

Yes. You can show a professional relationship with clients outside Spain and work up to 20% of your time for Spanish clients.

Is the golden visa an alternative?

No. Spain abolished the residence permit for real estate investors in April 2025. If you want to invest or start a business in Spain, there are other routes we can explore with you.