Barcelona has cemented its position as one of the most attractive cities for digital nomads in Spain. According to recent figures from the Permanent Immigration Observatory, in 2023, the Catalan capital hosted one-third of the professionals who obtained a remote work residence visa. Out of the total 9,296 permits granted, 3,361 were for Barcelona.
It should be noted that these figures do not account for European citizens—who do not require this document—nor those who work remotely with a tourist visa.
In any case, this reflects a trend among those who choose Spain to advance professionally. Let’s review the requirements for obtaining this visa.
What is Needed to Obtain the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain?
Since December 2022, Spain offers a special residence permit for non-EU remote workers under the Startup Law (Law 28/2022). This visa allows applicants to reside legally in the country while working remotely for foreign companies. The primary requirements include:
- Demonstrating an income equivalent to twice the Spanish minimum wage.
- Proving a contractual or professional relationship with a company outside the country of residence.
- Verifying at least one year of professional experience.
- Ensuring your economic income is generated abroad.
This scheme is designed to attract global talent and encourage interaction with the local innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Among its advantages is the possibility of including your family and minor children in the visa (by accrediting sufficient income to support them).
Another attractive incentive for Chileans (and Latin Americans in general) is that, after two years of legal residence, they can begin the process to obtain naturalization and, consequently, a Spanish passport.
Barcelona’s Attractions for Digital Nomads
Infrastructure and Digital Ecosystem
Barcelona is Spain’s leading digital hub and the fifth in Europe for startup investment, with an ecosystem that includes over 287 coworking spaces, business incubators, and events like the Mobile World Congress and the IOT World Congress. These characteristics make the city ideal for those seeking a dynamic environment to develop their professional careers.
Lifestyle and Connectivity
The Mediterranean lifestyle, cultural diversity, and proximity to destinations such as the Pyrenees and Costa Brava are key elements that attract digital nomads. Additionally, Catalonia offers efficient international connections, a high quality of life, and cities like Girona and Tarragona, which complement the offerings of the capital.
Innovation and Networking
Companies like Nestlé, Roche, Microsoft, and Telefónica have established digital hubs in Barcelona, reinforcing its appeal as a center of technological talent and offering unique opportunities for networking and professional development.
With AIM Global, You Can Be a Digital Nomad in Spain
As we have seen, Spain positions itself as one of the preferred destinations for remote professionals seeking a vibrant and opportunity-filled environment.
With offices in Santiago and Lisbon, AIM Global can guide you through the procedures for obtaining a remote work residence visa.
Schedule a meeting with us, and you’ll see that your dreams of becoming a global citizen are closer to reality than you think.
