How to Renew a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain

The concept of digital nomadism is becoming increasingly popular among professionals who have the opportunity to work remotely. A digital nomad is someone who combines work with travel and living abroad. Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa allows individuals to legally reside in Europe while enjoying the culture, climate, and other benefits. However, the initially granted residence permit expires after three years—remaining in the country beyond that would be illegal. Fortunately, it’s possible to extend your stay in Spain for another two years. Afterward, you can apply for a new residence permit or permanent residency (PR), and eventually, Spanish citizenship after five years. Let’s go over the necessary conditions and steps involved in renewing your digital nomad residence permit in Spain.

Key Requirements for Renewing the Digital Nomad Visa

One of the main requirements for renewing the digital nomad visa in Spain is fulfilling tax and social security obligations. This confirms your genuine intention to live in Spain and contribute to its economic development. You must also demonstrate sufficient financial means. As with the initial application, you’ll need to prove your income. The minimum income requirement for the main applicant is approximately €2,646 per month before taxes. Applicants with a criminal record or serious legal issues in Spain are not eligible for renewal. This requirement is in place to help maintain public order and safety in the country.

Required Documents for Visa Renewal

To renew your residence permit, you must collect and submit a set of documents confirming your identity, financial status, and compliance with other requirements. The list includes:

1. Passport;
2. Current residence card;
3. Renewal application form;
4. Contract with a foreign employer that permits remote work;
5. Invoices and a bank statement;
6. Health insurance (for employees) or proof of proper social security contributions in Spain (for self-employed);
7. Proof of family ties (if relatives are also applying for or renewing the visa);
8. Payment receipts for government fees.

If you’ve changed your address, you must provide proof of residence when submitting fingerprints for the new residence card. A certificate of registration (empadronamiento) will suffice, especially if you're outside Madrid or Barcelona.

Application Process

To speed up the approval process, it's crucial to prepare a complete set of documents in advance. Make sure all documents are valid and up to date. Most documents must be translated into Spanish by a certified sworn translator ("traducción jurada"). If anything is missing, the authorities will request additional documents. The application and documents must be uploaded to the UGE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas) website. Don’t forget to pay the application fee. Once submitted, the authorities will begin processing the application, which may take up to 20 business days. During this period, they may request additional information or documentation. To avoid delays, be prepared to respond quickly.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

Failure to meet the requirements may result in your application being rejected or delayed. Common reasons for rejection include:

1. Missing documents;
2. Non-compliance with tax or social security obligations;
3. Incomplete financial records;
4. Errors in the application;
5. Unpaid government fees.

To prevent these issues, carefully review your application and ensure that all documents are in the correct format. If the situation is complex, consider consulting a visa expert. In case of rejection, you may file an appeal to contest the decision. Another common issue is a delay in application processing, often due to backlogs, documentation errors, or requests for additional information. To avoid this, make sure your documents are accurate and complete before submitting. Respond quickly to any additional requests from immigration authorities.

Tips and Recommendations

To ensure a successful renewal, maintain stable financial conditions. Spanish authorities assess digital nomads' income thoroughly, so meeting the financial requirements is crucial. The applicant must continue working remotely for a foreign company with a valid contract lasting at least two more years. The monthly salary should exceed €2,646. Income from Spanish companies must not exceed 20% of the total income; otherwise, a different type of residence permit may be required. It’s also important to submit the application on time to avoid overstaying or being forced to leave the country. Plan ahead—prepare and translate your documents early. If you face any doubts or complications, book a consultation with a visa expert. They can guide you through the process, prepare your application, and handle any challenges that arise. When choosing a visa expert, pay attention to their experience, reputation, and range of services. The earlier you seek help, the higher the chances of a successful and timely renewal.

Conclusion

With the right approach, renewing your Digital Nomad Visa in Spain is quite straightforward. The key is to meet the government’s requirements, prepare all necessary documents, and address any issues quickly. Once your renewal is approved, you can continue enjoying life and remote work in Spain. At El Pomogator, we’re ready to assist you at every stage of the renewal process. We offer consultations, help prepare and submit your application, and solve any complex issues along the way. If you want to learn more about the Digital Nomad Program, check out our Digital Nomad Residence Guide, where we’ve compiled detailed information about obtaining this status in Spain.