Case: Digital Nomad Approval After a Startup Rejection
Residence permit after startup rejection
Stages of obtaining a residence permit
April 10, 2025
1April 14, 2025
2May 8, 2025
3June 13, 30 & July 8, 2025
4After two rejections for the startup visa, Anatoly was looking for an alternative. The solution was the digital nomad residency. We gathered the documents and submitted the application within five days. Read how the process went in this case study.
Client Story
Anatoly tried twice to obtain a Spanish startup visa, but both applications were rejected: his business plan didn’t meet the criteria, and ENISA rejected the project. After the second rejection, we suggested a new strategy — applying for the digital nomad residency.
1. Document Preparation
We started working on April 10, 2024. The goal: submit the application by April 15.
The client already had:
- police clearance certificates,
- translations of some documents.
We quickly finalized the package, prepared all necessary forms and payment slips, contacted sworn translators, and submitted the digital nomad residency application on April 14.
2. Submission
Submission date: April 14, 2025
3. Approval
Approval received on: May 8, 2025
The application was approved with no additional document requests!

Digital Nomad Residency approval notice
4. Residence Card Collection
After approval, the most unpredictable stage began — booking an appointment for fingerprinting (“cita”). In May–June, delays and disruptions started, especially in large cities. While we monitored available dates, we also assisted with school search for the client’s child and provided a detailed guide for registration at the place of residence (empadronamiento).
We managed to secure fingerprinting appointments for June 13, June 30, and July 8 — all in different cities.
Takeaway: With fast and well-coordinated work, anything is possible — even getting approved after two rejections!


