If you’ve always wanted to experience life in Spain and happen to be a remote worker, you might be eligible for the country’s digital nomad visa.
The European country launched the visa program, which allows foreigners to live and work remotely for a certain period in other destinations that aren’t their country of permanent residence, in January 2023.
According to VisaGuide.World, Spain introduced the digital nomad visa as a part of legislation that aims to encourage entrepreneurship and foreign investment.
How does it work
If you’re able to secure a digital nomad visa with Spain, it will be valid for one year from the entrance date. You can then extend your stay for up to five years by applying for a residence permit for three years, which you’ll be allowed to renew for two more years, according to VisaGuide.World.
If you have a spouse or children, they will also be able to apply with you.
Being a digital nomad in Spain comes with tax advantages. You’ll be taxed at 15% for the first four years, rather than the standard 25%.
Who is eligible for a digital nomad visa in Spain
Non-EU citizens and people from outside of the European Economic Area can apply for the program. This means Canadians employed at companies located outside of Spain that allow remote work are eligible.
According to the government, applicants who are self-employed can also work for a company located in the country. However, the employee can only derive a maximum of 20% of their income from Spanish organizations.
Prospective digital nomads must be able to prove that they’ve been working remotely for at least a year and that they have an income of €25,680 per year, which is around C$38,000.
In addition, applicants need to show that they will earn enough to be self-sufficient and have an address in Spain.
You’ll also need to have proof of health insurance from a company that’s authorized to operate in the country.
Spain isn’t the only place offering a visa to Canadians. Here is a list of other destinations that are welcoming digital nomads.
This article was originally published on October 18, 2022, and has been updated.