In recent years, Spain has become an increasingly attractive destination for freelancers and digital nomads from many different countries.
With its affordable prices, vibrant culture, extraordinary weather, and growing economy, Spain offers many opportunities and an attractive lifestyle for those seeking to establish themselves as digital nomads or self-employed individuals.
One of the key pathways for freelancers to relocate to Spain is through the Spain Freelance Visa, also known as the Spanish Self-Employed Visa.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about this visa option in 2024.
Overview of the Spain Freelance Visa
The Spain Freelance Visa is designed for individuals who wish to establish themselves as self-employed professionals in Spain.
Whether you’re a freelance writer, consultant, designer, or any other type of independent worker, this visa allows you to legally reside and work in Spain while pursuing your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Requirements for the Spain Freelance Visa
To qualify for the Spain Freelance Visa in 2024, you need to meet certain requirements, which may vary depending on your country of origin, but generally include the following:
- Passport.
- Proof of Financial Means. You must prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself financially while living in Spain. This proof may include bank statements, income from freelance work, or other sources of income.
- Business Plan. You need to present a detailed business plan outlining your proposed self-employment activities in Spain. This plan should include information about your target market, pricing strategy, marketing efforts, and financial projections.
- Activity Permits and Licenses. Depending on your specific job, permits and licenses for professional activities might be required.
- Relevant Qualifications. You may be required to provide evidence of relevant qualifications or professional experience, depending on your profession.
- Medical Certificate. You must add a certificate stating you do not suffer from any disease that might cause a public health problem.
- Clean Criminal Record. You must provide a certificate of good conduct or a criminal record check from your home country to demonstrate that you have no criminal convictions.
Spain Self-Employed Visa Application Process
The application process for the Spain Freelance Visa must be done in two steps.
First, you have to fill out an application for an initial residence and self-employed work permit. Once you have obtained it, you can apply for your visa.
The steps for you to get your visa should typically be the following:
- Gather all the documents: Once you know the criteria for approval, prepare all your documentation, including financial proof, business plan, criminal record check, and other paperwork that might be useful. All documents written in another language have to be attached along with an official translation into Spanish. Keep in mind this will speed up the process in case they ask for extra documents.
- Submit your application for an initial residence and self-employed work permit. Applications are submitted in Consular Offices in the country of origin and, in some cases, also online. The procedure has a cost, with some exemptions, so you must pay the fees and attach proof of payment.
- Wait for a notification. If the decision is favorable, the Consular Office will invite you to submit a visa application.
- Submit your visa application. Again, submit your application, in this case for your Freelance Visa, and attach all documents required.
- Wait for a notification. Visa decisions usually take a month, but it could be longer depending on additional required documents or extra steps, such as interviews.
- Collect your visa. If your visa is eventually approved, you have to collect it personally, and then you can begin your amazing journey.
- Register in Spain. Your visa will be valid for 90 days. Then, once in Spain, you will have three months to register in the Social Security system and apply for a Foreigner Identity Card.
Considerations when obtaining the Spain Freelance Visa
The Spanish Self-Employed Visa has several benefits. You can legally reside in Spain and become an entrepreneur in this country safely and with security. Enjoy everything this country has to offer and start a new chapter in your life.
IMPORTANTE NO INCLUIR Y Incorporar un botón con enlace a la página de inglés
In several cases, getting health insurance is also required to get your visa before you move to Spain, and it also offers great peace of mind to have full coverage in a new country. If you are looking for a valid health insurance coverage for your visa, we can help you find the right one!
