Last Updated on April 26, 2023
This article was originally published on 13 December 2022 and was updated on 26 January 2023 and 24 April 2023 to reflect new information.
24 April 2023 Update: The government of Spain published further information on the process for applying for a remote work visa under the Startup Law. Applicants can apply under two pathways of the Startup Law. These options include the International remote workers visa and the Entrepreneurs visa.
Overview of the International Remote Work Visa
Eligible applicants for the International remote worker visa must provide proof of the following:
- A graduate or postgraduate degree issued by a top university or business school. Alternatively, applicants can provide proof of a minimum of three years; or proof of professional experience in the same or similar job position to which the applicant will be undertaking remotely in Spain.
- Evidence of employment with a company or group of companies for at least one year.
- Proof of professional or employment relationship with the employing company not located in Spain for at least three months prior to the submission of the application.
- Proof of funds, including a monthly amount that is equivalent to 200% of the official minimum wage for the principal.
- In the case of a family unit, applicants must provide evidence of at least 75% of the official minimum wage for the first dependent and 25% for every additional dependent.
- Proof of a police background check completed in any country in which the foreign national resided within the last two years. The applicant must also provide an addition to an affidavit stating that the applicant holds no criminal records in any of the countries in which the applicant resided within the past five years.
- Proof of medical insurance issued by a private health insurance company authorized to operate in Spain.
- A social security coverage certificate is issued by the sending country authorities.
Overview of the Entrepreneur Remote Work Visa
Eligible applicants for the Entrepreneurs visa must provide proof of the following:
- Information on the company’s business patterns, product or service and other business documentation.
- Proof of funds, including a monthly amount that is equivalent to 200% of the official minimum wage for the principal.
- In the case of a family unit, applicants must provide evidence of at least 75% of the official minimum wage for the first dependent and 25% for every additional dependent.
- Proof of medical insurance issued by a private health insurance company authorized to operate in Spain.
26 January 2023 Update:
The government of Spain officially launched its teleworking visa under the Start-Up law on 18 January 2023. The government clarified that foreign nationals who have renewed their teleworking visa and are employed by a company outside of Spain or self-employed in Spain can apply for a three-year residence permit. For additional information in Spanish, check here.
Key Points
- Spain approved the Start-Up Law that will help increase entrepreneurial ventures in the country and allow foreign nationals to apply for a remote work visa
Overview of the Remote Work Visa
The government of Spain officially approved the Start-Up law. The law allows for third-country nationals to work remotely in Spain for a company based outside the country. Eligible applicants can apply if they work remotely in Spain for an entity based outside of the country.
Generally, the visa will permit a maximum stay of one year. The visa is renewable for an additional two-year period so long as the applicant continues to meet all requirements. Applicants must hold certain academic and professional background requirements.
What are the Changes?
The government of Spain officially approved the introduction of a remote work visa. According to the government, the law is intended to facilitate the creation and development of new start-ups in Spain to reform the country’s business climate.
Looking Ahead
The measures of the Start-Up law are anticipated to go into effort beginning in January 2023, following the publication of the law in the country’s Official Gazette. Continue to check the government of Spain’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.
