A big win for remote W2 workers: A recent development has made Spain Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) more accessible for U.S.-based W2 employees.
Thanks to updates in how the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) handles Certificates of Coverage (CoCs), many Americans can now meet a critical DNV requirement without having to pay into Spain’s social security system.
What’s Changed?
Historically, applying for a Certificate of Coverage was a major roadblock. The SSA used to require a Spanish company address on the form, which created confusion and disqualified many U.S. remote workers from the DNV process—since being employed by a Spanish company is not allowed under this visa.
Now, with the implementation of a new U.S.-Spain social security agreement in 2025, the landscape is shifting. There are confirmed cases of CoCs being approved with Spanish home addresses, and Spain’s immigration Unidad de Grandes Empresas (UGE) appears to be accepting them. This opens a new and legally solid route for American W2 employees to secure the visa.
Quick Recap: What is the Spanish DNV?
The Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU citizens, including Americans, to live and work remotely from Spain for up to five years (initial approval is for three years, renewable for two more). To qualify, applicants must meet several requirements, including:
- Monthly income of at least €2,763 (2025 figure, for individuals)
- Proof of private health insurance (Unless you are covered by access to Spanish Public Healthcare System)
- Clean criminal record
- Evidence that your work is for foreign clients or companies (not Spanish)
- Social security compliance, either through:
- A Certificate of Coverage from your home country, or
- A pledge to register with Spain’s system upon approval
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The Power of the Certificate of Coverage (CoC)
The CoC confirms that you’re covered by U.S. social security and, under the U.S.-Spain totalization agreement, exempts you from paying into Spain’s system. This can represent significant savings and simplify your application.
The breakthrough? The SSA is now accepting home addresses in Spain instead of requiring a Spanish company name and address. This seemingly small detail is a major shift—especially for W2 employees who work remotely for U.S.-based companies.
Who Can Apply for a Certificate of Coverage (CoC)?
Here’s how it breaks down:
W2 Employees:
- Must be employed by a U.S.-based company
- Can work remotely from Spain for up to five years (extensions possible)
- The CoC application should clearly list your Spanish residential address
This group is the best positioned to take advantage of the update.
Self-Employed Individuals:
- Must prove that their primary business operations remain in the U.S.
- This includes client base, revenue, and operational structure
- In reality, few freelancers or business owners meet this test if they intend to settle in Spain
Business Owners (e.g., S-Corp owners):
If you own more than 25% of a company, Spanish law treats you as self-employed (autónomo), regardless of your U.S. tax structure. This creates legal and tax complications, and you may not qualify for a CoC as a W2 employee—even if you pay yourself a salary.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a U.S. Certificate of Coverage
Step 1: Prepare Documentation
W2 Employees:
- Your full name, Social Security number, Spanish home address
- Employer’s name, U.S. address, and EIN
- Letter or contract confirming your remote role in Spain and the expected duration
Self-Employed:
- U.S. business registration
- Recent tax filings (e.g., Schedule C or Form 1120S)
- Proof of U.S.-based operations (clients, contracts, invoices, etc.)
Step 2: Submit the Request
Send your application to the Office of Earnings and International Operations (OEIO) at the SSA via:
- Online submission
- Mail: SSA, OEIO, P.O. Box 17775, Baltimore, MD 21235-7775, USA
Note: W2 employees should have their employer submit the request, but it’s important to ensure your Spanish home address is listed—not a company address.
Step 3: Wait & Verify
Processing usually takes 4–8 weeks. Once approved:
- Confirm that your CoC covers the entire length of your planned DNV stay
- Make sure it includes the correct address and employer info
Important Things to Know
- The CoC only covers social security, not income tax. If you spend more than 183 days in Spain, you’ll likely be considered a tax resident.
- The Beckham Law may reduce your income tax to 24% for up to six years (up to €600,000), depending on your circumstances.
- Your income must come primarily from non-Spanish sources. Any Spanish-sourced self-employment income must be below 20% of your total.
What if You Can’t Get a CoC?
If you’re not eligible for a CoC or face delays:
- Apply under the self-employed route with a pledge to register for Spanish social security after approval
- Alternatively, your company could register in Spain and hire you through a local payroll—though this is less common and more complex
Final Thoughts
This is a significant opportunity for remote employees working for U.S. companies. The combination of a valid CoC and Spain’s welcoming Digital Nomad Visa framework can make living and working in Spain legally much more accessible—and potentially affordable.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on current developments and community-reported experiences regarding Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa and U.S. Certificates of Coverage. Immigration and social security regulations are subject to change and may vary depending on individual circumstances. This article does not constitute legal or tax advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration lawyer or cross-border tax advisor before making decisions related to your visa or relocation plans.
