Residence permit in Spain in 2026: three legal pathways for relocation

Spain remains one of the most sought-after EU countries for relocation. In 2026, the three most relevant legalization routes are: the Digital Nomad Visa, the Startup Visa, and the residence permit for financially independent individuals. Each pathway has its own requirements, tax implications, and renewal strategy.

Let’s examine which option may suit you best and what to consider before applying.

1. Digital Nomad Visa
Suitable for remote employees of foreign companies and freelancers working with international clients.
Main conditions in 2026:

• At least 80% of income must come from outside Spain
• Minimum income: 200% of SMI (approximately €2,849 per month for a single applicant)
• For a spouse: +75%
• For each child: +25%
• Proof of income through contracts and bank statements

Validity:

• Via consulate — 1-year visa
• If applying within Spain — residence permit valid for up to 3 years

Taxes:
Possibility to apply the special expat tax regime (Beckham Law) — a flat 24% rate on active income instead of progressive taxation.
Renewal and Permanent Residence:
3 years + 2-year renewal. After 5 years of residence (183+ days per year) — eligibility for permanent residence.


2. Startup Visa
Suitable for entrepreneurs with an innovative project recognized as beneficial to the Spanish economy.
The key step is business plan approval by ENISA.
Evaluation criteria include:

• Innovation
• Scalability
• Job creation potential
• Investment attractiveness

Timeline:

• ENISA review — up to 3 months
• Residence decision — approximately 20 working days
• Total process — 3–4 months

Financial requirements:
Approximately €31,752 per year for the main applicant.
Important in 2026:
At renewal, authorities verify actual business activity: revenue, reporting, salary payments to the founder. Formal projects without turnover are frequently refused.


3. Residence for Financially Independent Individuals (Residencia No Lucrativa)
Suitable for applicants with passive income: dividends, rental income, interest, pensions.
Minimum income:
Approximately 400% of IPREM (around €2,259 per month for the main applicant).
Key features:

• No employment permitted in Spain
• Standard progressive tax rates apply
• Designed for residence without active economic activity

Renewal:
Issued for 1 year, then renewable for 2 years.

Depending on the program, but the standard package includes:

• Valid passport
• Criminal record certificate
• Private medical insurance
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of qualifying basis (employment contract, business plan, passive income)
• Proof of accommodation in Spain

All documents must be translated and legalized.

• Digital Nomad Visa — 20–45 days
• Startup Visa — approximately 3–4 months
• Financially independent residence — 1–3 months

Government fees vary depending on the application type and number of applicants.

In 2026, Spain offers clear and functional legalization mechanisms:

• For remote professionals — Digital Nomad Visa
• For entrepreneurs — Startup Visa
• For capital holders — Residencia No Lucrativa

The choice depends on your income source, long-term goals, and relocation strategy.

Visa Dan specialists support clients at every stage — from initial assessment to obtaining the residence card and renewing status.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!