Digital Nomad Residence Permit for a Developer

Dmitry reached out to us to settle in Spain through the Digital Nomad visa.

In his second year living outside Russia, Dmitry decided to settle down somewhere. He chose Spain. After researching information and asking questions in immigration chats, he contacted us based on a recommendation.

1. Document Preparation

Duration: 1 month

The main document package was standard, however, some challenges arose:

1. Obtaining Russian Criminal Record CertificateDmitry was unable to order and receive an apostilled criminal record certificate himself. As part of the “full package” service, we obtained the document for him and had it professionally translated.
2. Legalization of Georgian Criminal Record CertificateDuring document preparation, the procedure for submitting Georgian certificates changed: they now needed to be both translated into Spanish and legalized. There are no sworn (jurado) translators for Georgian in Spain, so we clarified the legalization process through the Spanish Consulate in Georgia and provided Dmitry with step-by-step instructions. As a result, the certificate was successfully legalized.
3. Border Crossing and Entry RegistrationDmitry flew to Spain with a layover in Austria, resulting in an Austrian rather than Spanish stamp in his passport. Therefore, we prepared an entry declaration in advance, which he submitted for signature to police officers after landing in Spain.

2. Document Submission

Submission date: August 5, 2024

The document package was submitted without delays.

3. Approval

Approval date: August 26, 2024

The decision was received without additional requests.

Digital Nomad Residence Permit approval document

4. Fingerprint Submission

Fingerprint date: September 6, 2024

After approval, we promptly scheduled Dmitry’s fingerprint appointment, prepared all forms and payment receipts for the fee. His package included the government fee payment, so he didn’t have to handle this himself.

5. Receiving Residence Permit Card

Card receipt date: October 7, 2024

After receiving the card, Dmitry was able to open a Spanish bank account, which was necessary for the next stage – registering as autónomo.

6. Autónomo Registration and Social Security Enrollment

Duration: 4 days

On October 14, 2024, we prepared documents for registration and opening autónomo.

On October 18, 2024, Dmitry was successfully registered as a self-employed individual and enrolled in the social security system. He could now legally work in Spain.

The residence permit process can go smoothly if you prepare a proper document package in advance!