Spain is one of the most attractive destinations for non-EU citizens looking to relocate, whether for work, study, retirement, or remote work. With its pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living, it has become a top choice for expats worldwide. However, securing the right visa in Spain is essential to make your move smooth and hassle-free.

At Livin’Valencia, we understand that every situation is unique. Since the Golden Visa is no longer an option, many of our clients are exploring alternative residency pathways. We see a growing demand for viable visa solutions tailored to different professional and personal circumstances. Whether you’re planning to settle in Valencia for business, education, or lifestyle, we’re here to guide you through the process.

Below, we provide a comprehensive guide to the major visa options available for non-EU citizens who wish to stay in Spain for more than the 90-day limit of a tourist visa. This guide will help you determine the best visa for your needs and how we can assist you every step of the way.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Visa in Spain
• Work Visa in Spain
  • Regular Work Visa
  • Self-Employed Work Visa
  • Entrepreneur Visa
• Non-Lucrative Visa
• Family Visa
• Student Visa
• Digital Nomad Visa
• How Livin’Valencia Can Assist You

Understanding Visas in Spain

If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need to apply for a visa that aligns with your purpose of stay. Spain offers various visa options, each with specific requirements and conditions. At Livin’Valencia, we can assist you in securing your visa, handling the paperwork, and ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in Valencia.

Below, we outline the most common types of visas in Spain and their key requirements.

1. Work Visa in Spain

Spain offers different types of work visas depending on whether you are employed by a company, self-employed, or planning to start a business.

1.1. Regular Work Visa (Employed by a Spanish Company)

The Regular Work Visa is required for individuals over 16 years old who plan to work in Spain under an employment contract. This includes seasonal work activities.

Required Documents

• National Visa Application Form: Each applicant must complete and sign the visa application form. If the applicant is a minor, a parent must sign.
• Recent Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photo, front-facing, with a clear background, without dark glasses or reflections, and without headwear that covers the face.
• Valid Passport: Original and a copy of all pages of the passport containing biometric data. The passport must have a minimum validity of four months (or for the full duration of the contract in the case of temporary employment) and two blank pages.
• Initial Residence and Work Authorization: Original and a copy of the employer-signed initial residence and work authorization.
• Work Contract: A copy of the contract of employment, stamped by the Office of Foreigners.
• Criminal Record Certificate: Applicants of legal age must present the original and a copy of a criminal record certificate from the country or countries of residence in the last five years. This must be apostilled and issued within the last 90 days.
• Medical Certificate: Original and a copy of a medical certificate stating that the applicant does not suffer from diseases that may have serious consequences for public health, according to the International Health Regulations of 2005. The certificate must be issued within the last 90 days.
• Proof of Residence in the Consular Jurisdiction: National ID card (INE/IFE) or residence permit for foreign applicants.
• Proof of Identity and Parental Consent: If the applicant is a minor, an original and a copy of the identity document or passport of the parent, along with proof of relationship. These documents must be apostilled.
• Visa Fee Payment: The applicant must pay the corresponding visa fee. Details on fees and payment methods are available on the consulate’s website.

Additional Considerations

• The consulate may request additional documents or information to assess the application.
• The applicant may be required to attend a personal interview.

This work visa in Spain is the pathway for those employed by a Spanish company to legally reside and work in Spain. If you have secured a job offer in Spain, your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf. Key requirements include:

• A valid job contract with a Spanish company.
• The employer must prove that no EU citizen could fill the position.
• You must meet the qualifications required for the job.
• Proof of financial means and health insurance.

Duration: Typically valid for the duration of the employment contract, often ranging from one to two years, with the possibility of renewal. Processing Time: Approximately 1 month.

1.2. Self-Employed Work Visa (“Autónomo” Visa)

To obtain a self-employed work visa, it is first necessary to process an initial residence and self-employment work authorization. Therefore, the procedure consists of two phases.

Phase 1: Obtaining the Initial Residence and Work Authorization

This process involves:

• Application Form (EX-07): The applicant must complete and sign two copies of the EX-07 application form. If the applicant is a minor, one of the parents must sign.
• Valid Passport: A copy of all passport pages is required.
• Business Licenses & Authorizations: Applicants must provide evidence that they have applied for the necessary licenses or authorizations required to operate their business or profession.
• Professional Qualifications: Proof of necessary qualifications, including accredited degrees or certificates.
• Business Plan: A detailed business plan, including the planned investment, expected profitability, and potential job creation.
• Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient economic resources to support the investment or commitment from financial institutions.
• Payment of Fees: Applicants must pay the required government fees using forms 790-052 and 790-062.

Phase 2: Visa Application and Processing

Once the work authorization is approved, the applicant must apply for the visa at the corresponding consulate. The process includes:

• Personal Submission: The applicant must submit their application in person at the consulate.
• Consular Review & Processing: The consulate will verify documents and may require an interview.
• Resolution Period: The government has three months to process the application.
• Notification: The applicant will be notified of the decision.
• Visa Issuance: If approved, the consulate will call the applicant to submit the visa application.
• Appeals: In case of rejection, the applicant can appeal within one month or file an administrative lawsuit within two months in Madrid.

Additional Considerations

• Nationals from Latin America, the Philippines, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea, Sephardic Jews, and children of Spanish nationals may be exempt from certain fees.
• Applications must be submitted in person at designated consulates.
• Documents must be translated into Spanish and officially legalized.

This structured process ensures that individuals looking to work as self-employed professionals in Spain can meet all legal requirements for obtaining a self-employed visa in Spain.

Para obtener un visado de trabajo por cuenta propia, es necesario tramitar primero una autorización de residencia inicial y trabajo por cuenta propia. Por ello, el procedimiento consta de dos fases. For those looking to start their own business or work as a freelancer, the self-employed work visa is the right option. Requirements include:

• A detailed business plan demonstrating the feasibility of your project.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources.
• Registration with Spanish tax authorities and social security.
• Health insurance coverage.

Duration: Usually issued for one year, renewable upon proof of continued business activity and financial stability. Processing Time: Around 1 month.

1.3. Entrepreneur Visa

The Entrepreneur Visa is designed for foreign nationals who intend to relocate to Spain to establish and develop an innovative business with significant economic interest for the country.

Eligible Family Members

Family members who can also apply include:

• Spouse or registered partner.
• Children (minors or dependent adults who have not formed their own household).
• Financially dependent parents.

Required Documents

• National Visa Application Form: Completed and signed by each applicant or their representative.
• Recent Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photo, front-facing, with a clear background.
• Valid Passport: Original and a copy of all biometric pages. The passport must be valid for at least one year and have two blank pages.
• Favorable Business Report: Original and a copy of a favorable report issued by the Spanish Economic and Commercial Office or the Directorate General for International Trade and Investment. The evaluation considers:
  • Job creation potential in Spain.
  • Professional profile of the applicant, including education, work experience, and involvement in the project.
  • Business Plan, detailing the project, products/services, market analysis, and funding sources.
  • Added value to the Spanish economy, innovation, and investment opportunities.
• Proof of Financial Means:
  • Documentation proving sufficient personal financial resources to sustain oneself and any accompanying family members.
  • Minimum required income of 100% of the IPREM, plus 50% of the IPREM for each additional family member.
• Criminal Record Certificate:
  • Required for applicants of legal age, issued within the last 90 days.
  • Must be apostilled and translated if necessary.
  • Additional declaration stating no criminal offenses in the last five years.
• Medical Certificate: Confirming the applicant does not suffer from diseases with serious public health implications under the 2005 International Health Regulations.
• Health Insurance:
  • Private or public health insurance policy covering all risks similar to Spain’s public healthcare system.
  • Proof of payment for at least one year.
• Proof of Residence in the Consular Jurisdiction: Valid proof of residence, such as a national ID card or residence permit.
• Proof of Representation (if applicable): If a representative submits the application, proof of their identity and legal representation must be provided.
• Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment of the visa fee.

Additional Documents for Family Members

Each accompanying family member must submit:

• All general entrepreneur visa requirements listed above.
• Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for children), duly apostilled.
• Proof of Dependency:
  • For adult children: Financial proof demonstrating economic dependence and single status.
  • For parents: Proof of financial dependence and cohabitation.

Duration & Processing Time

• Duration: Initially valid for one year, renewable upon progress of the business.
• Processing Time: Typically 20 working days.

Additional Considerations

• The consulate may request additional documents or schedule a personal interview.
• Documents in a language other than Spanish must be officially translated and apostilled.

This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to establish innovative businesses in Spain, contributing to economic growth and job creation. Under the Entrepreneur Law, if you plan to launch an innovative business in Spain, you may qualify for the entrepreneur visa. Unlike other work visas, this can be applied for while already in Spain. Requirements include:

• A viable and innovative business project.
• A positive evaluation from the Spanish Economic and Commercial Office.
• Sufficient funds to support yourself and your business.

Duration: Typically granted for an initial period of one year, extendable based on the progress of the business venture. Processing Time: Approximately 20 working days.

2. Non-Lucrative Visa

The Non-Lucrative Visa allows individuals to reside in Spain without engaging in any professional or work-related activities, provided they have sufficient financial means to support themselves. This visa does not permit employment.

Eligible Family Members

The following family members may also apply under this visa:

• Spouse or registered partner.
• Children and dependent parents who form part of the household unit.

Required Documents

• National Visa Application Form (EX-01): Each applicant must complete and sign the form.
• Recent Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photo, front-facing, with a clear background, without dark glasses or reflections.
• Valid Passport: Original and a copy of all pages. The passport must have a minimum validity of one year and two blank pages.
• Proof of Financial Means: Documentation proving sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses in Spain for the first year. The minimum requirement is 400% of the IPREM, plus 100% of the IPREM per additional family member.
• Health Insurance: A private health insurance policy covering all medical expenses in Spain without co-pays, waiting periods, or deductibles.
• Criminal Record Certificate: Original and a copy, issued within the last 90 days, apostilled, and covering the last five years of residence.
• Medical Certificate: A medical report confirming the applicant does not suffer from any disease posing a serious public health risk, issued within the last 90 days.
• Proof of Residence in the Consular Jurisdiction: Official documentation proving the applicant’s current place of residence.
• Visa Fee Payment: The corresponding visa fees must be paid using the 790-052 form.

Additional Documents for Family Members

Each family member must submit:

• All individual visa requirements listed above.
• Proof of relationship: Birth or marriage certificates, or proof of a registered partnership, duly apostilled.
• Proof of dependency for adult children or parents: Documents verifying financial dependence and continued family cohabitation.

Duration & Processing Time

• Duration: Initially valid for one year, renewable for two-year periods.
• Processing Time: Generally one to three months.

Additional Considerations

• The consulate may request additional documents or schedule a personal interview.
• All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and legally authenticated.

This visa is an excellent choice for financially independent individuals looking to enjoy life in Spain without engaging in work activities. For those who do not intend to work in Spain but wish to live there, the non-lucrative visa is an ideal option. This visa is often chosen by retirees or financially independent individuals.

Requirements:

• Proof of sufficient financial resources (minimum required income varies but is generally over €28,000 per year).
• Full health insurance coverage.
• No work or business activity allowed in Spain.
• A clean criminal record.

Duration: Initially valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal for two-year periods. Processing Time: Generally takes about 1 month, but it can extend up to 3 months.

3. Family Visa

The Family Reunification Visa allows non-EU citizens who are legal residents in Spain to bring their family members to live with them. This visa does not apply to family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens (see ‘Visas for Family Members of EU Citizens’).

Eligible Family Members

• Spouse or registered partner (provided the relationship is officially recognized and has not been annulled).
• Children of the sponsor or their spouse/partner, including legally adopted children and dependents under 18 years of age or those with disabilities preventing self-sufficiency.
• Parents of the sponsor or their spouse/partner, provided they are financially dependent, over 65 years old, and there is a justifiable reason for residency in Spain. Exceptions may be made for parents under 65 for humanitarian reasons.

Required Documents

• National Visa Application Form: Each applicant must complete and sign a visa application. If the applicant is a minor, one parent or legal guardian must sign.
• Recent Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photo, front-facing, with a clear background.
• Valid Passport: Original and a copy of all pages containing biometric data. The passport must be valid for at least four months and have two blank pages.
• Initial Family Reunification Authorization: Original and a copy issued by the Spanish Delegation or Subdelegation of Government.
• Resident’s Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): Certified copy of the sponsor’s valid Spanish residence permit.
• Proof of Family Relationship:
  • Spouses: Marriage certificate from the relevant civil registry. If the applicant has previously been married, proof of divorce from any previous spouse.
  • Registered Partners: Certificate of registration as a legal partnership or evidence proving the relationship’s continuity before the sponsor relocated to Spain.
  • Children: Birth certificate issued by the competent civil registry. If the child is from a previous relationship, proof of custody or sole parental authority must be provided.
  • Parents: Birth certificate of the sponsor or their spouse/partner and proof of financial dependency over the past year.
• Criminal Record Certificate: Required for applicants of legal age, issued within the last 90 days, apostilled, and covering the last five years of residence.
• Medical Certificate: Confirming the applicant does not suffer from any disease posing a serious public health risk, issued within the last 90 days.
• Proof of Residence in the Consular Jurisdiction: Official documentation proving the applicant’s current residence.
• Visa Fee Payment: The corresponding visa fees must be paid, and proof of payment submitted.

Duration & Processing Time

• Duration: Valid for the same period as the sponsor’s residence permit (typically between 1 to 5 years).
• Processing Time: Approximately 4 to 6 months.

Additional Considerations

• The consulate may request additional documents or schedule a personal interview.
• All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and legally authenticated.

This visa facilitates family reunification, allowing loved ones to live together in Spain under legal residency. If you have family members who are either Spanish citizens or legal residents, you may apply for a family visa under two categories:

• Family member of an EU citizen visa: Allows non-EU spouses, children, or dependent parents of EU citizens to reside in Spain.
• Family reunification visa: Allows non-EU citizens residing in Spain to bring their close relatives after one year of legal residence.

Requirements:

• Proof of family ties.
• Financial resources to support the family member.
• Suitable accommodation.

Duration: Aligns with the residency permit of the sponsoring family member, typically ranging from one to five years. Processing Time: Approximately 4 to 6 months.

4. Student Visa

The Student Visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for more than 90 days while pursuing studies, training, internships, or volunteer work. It is also available for au pairs and language assistants.

Eligible Family Members

Family members who can accompany the student include:

• Spouse or registered partner.
• Dependent minor or incapacitated children.
• Note: The family visa does not authorize work in Spain.

Permitted Activities

A student visa may be granted for:

• Full-time studies leading to a recognized certificate or degree.
• Doctoral studies.
• Training programs.
• Student mobility programs for secondary and high school students in an officially recognized institution.
• Non-labor internships that do not fall under work visa categories.
• Volunteering programs with organizations pursuing general interest objectives.
• Au pair programs.
• Language assistant roles.

Required Documents

• National Visa Application Form: Completed and signed by the applicant. If the applicant is a minor, one parent must sign.
• Recent Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photo, front-facing, with a clear background.
• Valid Passport: Original and a copy of all biometric pages. The passport must remain valid throughout the entire study period and have two blank pages.
• Proof of Enrollment: Original and a copy of the document proving:
  • Admission to an authorized educational institution.
  • Enrollment in a recognized research or training center.
  • Participation in a student mobility program, with proof of host family or institution acceptance.
  • Admission to an unpaid internship based on a signed agreement.
  • Agreement with an organization for a recognized volunteer program.
• Proof of Financial Means: Documentation proving that the applicant (or their financial sponsor) has sufficient funds to cover living expenses, return costs, and any accompanying family members. The required minimum is 100% of the IPREM, plus 75% for the first family member and 50% per additional family member. Prepaid accommodation costs can be deducted from the required amount. Financial proof can be demonstrated through:
  • Bank statements for the last three months.
  • Proof of a scholarship covering all expenses.
  • A financial guarantee from a parent or guardian.
• Health Insurance: A private or public health insurance policy covering all risks similar to Spain’s public healthcare system. It must:
  • Cover the entire duration of stay.
  • Offer unlimited coverage without copayments, waiting periods, or deductibles.
  • Proof of payment for at least one year must be provided.
  • Volunteers must also provide civil liability insurance.
• Criminal Record Certificate: Required if the study period exceeds 180 days. This must:
  • Be issued within the last 90 days and cover the applicant’s last five years of residence.
  • Be apostilled and translated by a sworn translator if necessary.
• Medical Certificate: Required if the study period exceeds 180 days. It must confirm the applicant does not suffer from diseases with serious public health implications under the 2005 International Health Regulations.
• Proof of Residence in the Consular Jurisdiction: Official documentation proving the applicant’s residence.
• Proof of Parental Consent (if applicable): If the applicant is a minor, a notarized authorization from the parents must be provided.
• Visa Fee Payment: Proof of visa fee payment.

Additional Documents for Family Members

Each accompanying family member must submit:

• All general student visa requirements listed above.
• Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for children), duly apostilled.

Duration & Processing Time

• Duration: Valid for the duration of the academic program.
• Processing Time: Typically 5 to 8 weeks.

Additional Considerations

• The consulate may request additional documents or schedule a personal interview.
• All foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and legally authenticated.

This visa is ideal for students looking to pursue academic opportunities in Spain while experiencing the country’s rich culture and lifestyle. If you plan to pursue higher education, research, or training in Spain, the student visa is the easiest path. Additionally, student visa holders can later apply for a work permit if they secure a job.

Requirements:

• Acceptance into a recognized Spanish educational institution.
• Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay.
• Health insurance.
• No criminal record.

Duration: Corresponds to the length of the academic program. Processing Time: Typically between 5 to 8 weeks.

5. Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for foreign nationals who wish to work remotely for companies located outside of Spain using digital communication technologies.

Eligibility & Conditions

• Remote workers employed by a foreign company may only work for entities outside Spain.
• Freelancers and self-employed individuals may work for Spanish companies, provided that no more than 20% of their total activity is conducted for Spanish clients.
• Applicants must have a graduate or postgraduate degree from a recognized university, vocational training center, or business school, or have at least three years of professional experience.

Eligible Family Members

Family members who can also apply include:

• Spouse or registered partner.
• Children (minors or dependent adults who have not formed their own household).
• Financially dependent parents.

Required Documents

General Requirements (for Digital Nomads and Family Members)

• National Visa Application Form: Completed and signed by each applicant or their representative.
• Recent Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photo, front-facing, with a clear background.
• Valid Passport: Original and a copy of all biometric pages. The passport must be valid for at least one year and have two blank pages.
• Criminal Record Certificate: Original and a copy of a certificate covering the last two years of residence, plus a sworn declaration of no criminal offenses in the last five years. The document must be apostilled and issued within the last 90 days.
• Proof of Residence in the Consular Jurisdiction: Valid proof of residence, such as a national ID card or residence permit.
• Proof of Representation (if applicable): If a representative submits the application, proof of their identity and legal representation must be provided.
• Visa Fee Payment: Payment of the applicable visa fee.
• Health Insurance: A private or public health insurance policy covering all risks similar to Spain’s public healthcare system.

Specific Requirements for Digital Nomads

• Employment Certificate:
  • For remote employees: A certificate from the employer confirming employment for at least three months and permission to work remotely.
  • For self-employed individuals: Proof of an existing client base and contracts lasting at least three months.
• Business Registration: For freelancers, a commercial registry certificate proving that the business has been active for at least one year.
• Social Security Compliance:
  • For employees: Proof of registration with Spain’s social security system or an equivalent system from the home country.
  • For freelancers: Proof of registration with Spain’s social security system (RETA) or an equivalent international agreement.
• Financial Proof:
  • The applicant must earn at least 200% of the Spanish Minimum Wage (SMI).
  • Additional family members require at least 75% of the SMI for the first dependent and 25% for each additional dependent.
• Proof of Qualifications:
  • University degrees, vocational training certifications, or proof of at least three years of professional experience.
  • For regulated professions, an official equivalence certificate is required.

Duration & Processing Time

• Duration: Initially valid for one year, renewable for up to five years.
• Processing Time: Varies; applicants should apply well in advance.

Additional Considerations

• The consulate may request additional documents or schedule a personal interview.
• Documents in a language other than Spanish must be officially translated and apostilled.

This visa is an ideal option for remote professionals looking to live in Spain while working for foreign companies. A newly introduced option for remote workers and freelancers, the digital nomad visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely from Spain while benefiting from a favorable tax regime.

Requirements:

• Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts outside Spain.
• Sufficient financial means (generally around €2,500 per month).
• Private health insurance.
• A clean criminal record.

Duration: Initially granted for one year, with the possibility of renewal up to five years. Processing Time: Varies; applicants should apply well in advance.

How Livin’Valencia Can Assist You

At Livin’Valencia, we make the visa process simple and stress-free: ✔ Personalized Consultation ✔ Application Assistance ✔ Property Services ✔ Post-Arrival Support

Contact us and start your journey to Spain with Livin’Valencia today!