The Digital Nomad Visa in Spain has become one of the most popular options for remote workers and freelancers who want to live and work legally in the country. But a common question arises:
Is there any legal alternative for remote workers if I earn less than the income threshold required for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
The short answer is no — you cannot qualify for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa if you earn less than the minimum monthly income required by the Spanish government. The financial requirements are very specific and are one of the main filters the authorities use to approve this type of residence permit.
However, that does not mean there is no way to live and work remotely in Spain. Below we explain why you cannot apply for the Digital Nomad Visa with a lower salary, and what legal alternative allows you to telework in Spain with lower earnings.
Spain Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
To apply for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet several key conditions:
- Minimum income requirement: at least 200% of IPREM, which is around €2,700 per month in 2025.
- Stable work or professional relationship: proof of remote work for a foreign company or multiple international clients for at least 3 months before the application.
- Personal documentation: valid passport, health insurance, criminal record certificate, and proof of residence in the country of origin.
- Limit on Spanish clients: no more than 20% of your total invoicing can come from clients based in Spain.
If these requirements — especially the income threshold — are not met, the application will be denied. It is not enough to show irregular or future income projections; you must provide stable, verifiable income supported by contracts, payslips, and stamped bank statements.
The Alternative: Self-Employment Visa in Spain
If you do not meet the minimum income required for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, there is a perfectly legal alternative: applying for a Self-Employment Visa (work permit as a freelancer).
Here is how the process works step by step:
- Sign a contract with your own company: If you own a company abroad, you can sign a service contract with yourself, specifying your gross salary.
- Apply for the Self-Employment Visa: Submit the visa application including the contract, company documentation, business plan, and proof of funds to start your activity, along with a commitment to register with Spanish Social Security.
- Register as a freelancer in Spain: Once in Spain, you must register under the RETA (Special Regime for Self-Employed Workers).
- Comply with tax and labor obligations: This way, you will be fully regularized with Spanish Social Security and tax authorities.
This route is particularly suitable for:
- Freelancers with fluctuating or irregular income.
- Owners of small businesses who pay themselves a modest salary.
- Professionals who earn less than €2,700 per month but have recurring clients and steady income.
Advantages of the Self-Employment Visa
- Greater flexibility: no strict monthly income threshold like the Digital Nomad Visa.
- Full regularization: you pay Social Security contributions in Spain and generate future pension rights.
- Freedom to work with Spanish clients: no 20% invoicing limit from Spanish companies.
- Long-term residency: as long as you maintain your activity and stay current with payments, your permit can be renewed and lead to permanent residency.
Conclusion
While it is not possible to get the Spain Digital Nomad Visa earning less than the minimum required, the Self-Employment Visa is a legal and viable solution that allows you to live in Spain, telework legally, and stay compliant with all tax and social security obligations.
If this option sounds right for you, it is highly recommended to work with a professional immigration advisor who can prepare your contract, handle your freelancer registration, and submit your visa application correctly to avoid costly mistakes and delays.
FAQs – Digital Nomad Visa vs. Self-Employment Visa
Can I apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa if I earn less than €2,700/month?
No. The minimum monthly income requirement is strict, and applications not meeting this threshold are rejected.
Is there any alternative if I don’t meet the Digital Nomad Visa income requirement?
Yes. You can apply for a Self-Employment Visa and register as a freelancer in Spain, which allows you to telework legally with lower income.
Can I work with Spanish clients under the Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, but only up to 20% of your total turnover can come from Spanish clients. With the Self-Employment Visa, there is no such limitation.
Which option is better if my income is low?
The Self-Employment Visa is the better choice if you cannot meet the Digital Nomad Visa income threshold, as it is more flexible and legally allows you to live and work in Spain.
