Short answer: choose the Non-Lucrative if you want to live in Spain without working and can show passive income/savings; choose the Digital Nomad if you’ll work remotely for non-Spanish companies or clients. This guide compares eligibility, documents, work rights, family options, timelines, taxes, and pitfalls—so you can move confidently.
Need tailored guidance? Book via Meeting Scheduler or write to Contact. For a full overview of support for individuals, visit Spain immigration lawyers (Individuals).
Who typically chooses which visa?
- Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): retirees, sabbaticals, families living on passive income who prefer a simpler path without work evidence.
- Digital Nomad Visa (DNV): remote employees, freelancers, and contractors working primarily for non-Spanish entities.
What each visa is (in one line)
- Non-Lucrative: live in Spain without working.
- Digital Nomad: live in Spain while working remotely for foreign employers/clients.
Eligibility snapshot
Non-Lucrative (NLV)
- Work allowed: No.
- Income/savings: stable passive income and/or sufficient savings.
- Health insurance: private, Spain-wide, visa-compliant (no co-pays).
- Clean record: criminal record certificate + apostille/legalisation, official translation as required.
Digital Nomad (DNV)
- Work allowed: Yes, remote work for non-Spanish entities.
- Income level: steady income above the required threshold (employee or self-employed).
- Qualifications: degree and/or relevant professional experience.
- Insurance: health insurance (or employer coverage) meeting Spanish standards.
- Employer/clients: proof that remote work from Spain is authorised.
Side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | Non-Lucrative Visa | Digital Nomad Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Work rights | No work allowed | Remote work for non-Spanish entities |
| Ideal for | Retirees, sabbaticals, passive-income residents | Remote employees, freelancers, contractors |
| Core proof | Passive income / savings | Employment/client contracts, invoices, income history |
| Taxes | Likely tax resident if >183 days in Spain | Often tax resident; check expat regimes |
| Family | Yes (higher income threshold) | Yes (higher income threshold) |
Can you work on each visa?
- Non-Lucrative: no employment or economic activity in Spain. Passive income is fine; volunteering may be acceptable.
- Digital Nomad: remote work for non-Spanish companies/clients. Local Spanish activity can be restricted—seek advice before contracting locally.
Income & documents officers actually check
- Proof of means (NLV): bank statements, pension letters, dividends, rental income; demonstrate consistency and legitimate source.
- Remote-work proof (DNV): employment or client contracts, invoices, payment history, and a letter confirming remote status.
- Identity & police checks: valid passport; criminal record certificate with apostille/legalisation + official translation where required.
- Health insurance: visa-compliant, Spain-wide, no co-pays.
- Translations/apostilles: plan early; these steps often cause delays.
Taxes & residency implications
Staying over 183 days can make you a Spanish tax resident. Remote workers may access special expat regimes (case-dependent). Before relocating, book a Spain tax residency and expat tax review to avoid double taxation and plan filings.
Family members (dependants)
Both visas support family reunification (spouse/partner, minor children; sometimes dependent parents). You’ll need higher income thresholds and properly legalised/translated certificates.
Application steps & typical timelines
- Eligibility check: confirm the right route (NLV vs DNV) and your evidence.
- Legalisation & translation: order apostilles and official translations early.
- File correctly: via the relevant consulate or in-Spain route (where applicable).
- Biometrics/TIE: after approval, complete your police appointment for the residence card (TIE).
- Renewals: track renewal windows and maintain eligibility (income for NLV; ongoing remote work for DNV).
Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)
- Choosing the wrong health policy (co-pays, limited coverage) → get a visa-compliant plan.
- Unclear income evidence → provide consistent, translated statements and contracts.
- Expired/incorrect legalisations → watch apostille and validity windows.
- Local Spanish work under DNV without clearance → ask us before signing local contracts.
- Dependants’ paperwork gaps (consents, long-form certificates) → prepare early.
How Mecan Legal helps
- Eligibility & strategy: we map your profile to Non-Lucrative or Digital Nomad and flag tax issues early.
- Document checklist & compliance: apostilles, translations, insurance, employer letters—done correctly.
- Application & follow-through: consulate filing to TIE appointment coordination.
- After-arrival support: renewals, Spain tax residency and expat tax, and practical steps. If you plan to buy, see buying property in Spain (legal checks).
Ready to move forward? Book now via Meeting Scheduler or send us a note on Contact. For a full overview of support for individuals, visit Spain immigration lawyers (Individuals).
FAQs
Can I switch from Non-Lucrative to Digital Nomad later?
Often possible if you meet DNV criteria, but timing and documentation matter. Get advice before switching.
Can I freelance for Spanish clients on the Digital Nomad Visa?
DNV prioritises non-Spanish clients/employers. Local activity can be restricted—seek guidance before contracting in Spain.
Does either visa lead to permanent residency?
They can lead to long-term residence with renewals and years of lawful stay, provided you keep meeting requirements.
Is travel insurance enough for either visa?
Usually not. You need a visa-compliant health policy meeting Spanish standards (no co-pays, Spain-wide coverage).
How long after approval to get the TIE (card)?
Allow time for a police appointment; schedules vary by city. We help secure appointments and prepare your TIE pack.