Spain Digital Nomad Visa: Post-Approval Steps and Considerations

Question

Can you please help me with the Spain Digital Nomad Visa process post-approval? I got my DNV 3 weeks ago from my country and flying to Spain in Feb. So far this is what I know based on my research:

1. Find an apartment to rent = Empadronamiento
2. Get TIE
3. Register as Autonomo

Am I missing something?

Answers

These are the responses from Spainguru’s Facebook group members:

“Necessity of padrón before TIE depends on where in Spain you are. In BCN, Madrid, Valencia or Benidorm for instance, no padrón needed.”

“You will need to open a bank account and also get a Spanish SIM card for certain online appointment procedures. Additionally, if you have a high income, you may also want to consider whether it would be beneficial for you to take advantage of the Beckham Law.”

“Also a bank account.”

Conclusion

After obtaining your Spain Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), it’s essential to understand the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with local regulations. Based on the insights from Spainguru’s Facebook group members and additional research, consider the following:

1. Empadronamiento (Registration of Residency): This process involves registering your address with the local town hall. While it’s a standard procedure, its necessity before obtaining the TIE varies by region. For instance, in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, or Benidorm, the padrón may not be required prior to the TIE application.
2. Obtain the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card): The TIE is essential as it serves as your official identification in Spain. The application process and requirements can differ depending on the region.
3. Open a Spanish Bank Account: Having a local bank account is key for various transactions, including rent, utilities, and other services.
4. Acquire a Spanish SIM Card: A local phone number is often required for online appointment bookings and communications with local services.
5. Consider the Beckham Law: If you anticipate a high income (E.g. over 55.000€ yearly income), exploring the Beckham Law could be beneficial. This special tax regime allows qualifying individuals to be taxed as non-residents, potentially reducing the tax rate on income earned in Spain.
6. Register as Autónomo (Self-Employed): If your work structure requires it, registering as self-employed is essential. However, this depends on your employment status and the nature of your remote work.

It’s important to consult with local authorities or legal experts to ensure all necessary steps are completed based on your specific circumstances and the region you plan to reside in.