Question
Hi everyone, I’ve recently been approved for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa as a freelancer – I’m so happy. However, I have only one client. I’m concerned about what happens if that work ends. Has anyone here been in a similar situation? How strictly do they check that you meet the income requirement each quarter? Any advice or experience would be massively appreciated
Answers
These are the answers from Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“If you lose your client, you just need to try and get a new contract asap. Whatever happens, don’t stop your Autónomo payments and as long as your annual income still exceeds the minimum for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, you should be fine.”
OP: “Do you have to submit my invoices every quarter, how do i prove i’m meeting the minimum annual?”
“Your invoices are submitted to your tax accountant/gestor, and they submit your quarterly taxes for you. You then do a yearly declaration de la renta (tax declaration).
The UGE doesn’t currently ask for this at renewal but it’s always possible they may start, or already have access to them.
Renewals are sort of like applying again, even if still working for the same company. They ask for all of the documents again (3 months proof of payments, contracts etc).”
Conclusion
The conversation highlights a common concern for freelancers holding the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa: relying on just one client. Community members explain that if the work ends, it is important to secure a new contract quickly and to keep Autónomo payments active.
Quarterly invoices are generally handled through a gestor who submits taxes, and the annual income is reviewed in the yearly tax declaration. At renewal, authorities may request updated proof of income, contracts, and recent payments, making it similar to reapplying.
The key takeaway is that while having one client is possible, it carries risks. Freelancers should aim to maintain consistent income above the required threshold to safeguard their Spanish Digital Nomad Visa. This article is based on personal opinions from the Spainguru community and is not legal advice.
