Spain Freelance/Self-Employed Visa - 2025 Update
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Andy Stofferis
Freelance Writer
Last update
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Spain Rating from Citizen Remote
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4.0
Internet Infrastructure 4.0
Country Stability 4.0
Cost of Living 4.0
Ease of Obtaining Visa 4.0
Taxes 4.0
Quick Visa Facts
Visa length One year
Possible to extend? Yes, extensions are possible (up to 5 years total)
Who can apply? Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
Minimum Income Requirements Around €2,000–2,400/month
Time for visa applications 3–6 months
Want to know if you can apply?
Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!
Spain Quick Facts
Living in Spain is an unparalleled experience. With its exquisite cuisine, beautiful sunshine, golden coastlines, and bustling cities, Spain is a melting pot of cultural diversity and unlimited things to see and do. Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia are some of the most diverse, gorgeous cities in the world, boasting excellent shopping, dining, and cultural hotspots.
Capital Madrid
Form of Government Unitary parliamentary
Population Population of 47.08 million
Climate Generally Mediterranean
Language Spanish
Currency Euro
35 people in Spain!
Join the community of remoters!
If you decide to freelance in Spain, you won’t necessarily be tied to one location. Freelancing often offers the flexibility to live and work from different parts of the country, whether you're drawn to the beaches of Valencia, the cultural energy of Madrid, or the mountain towns of Andalusia.
But before you pack your bags, you’ll need to secure the proper legal permission to live and work in Spain. For self-employed individuals, this means applying for Spain’s Self-Employed Work Visa (also known as the freelance visa).
This guide will walk you through the process, whether you’re applying from outside the EU, within the EU, or from the UK. Keep in mind that each process differs slightly. Non-EU citizens generally face longer processing times, although recent digitalization efforts have improved turnaround in many regions. With the right documentation and preparation, freelancing legally in Spain is more accessible than ever.
If you are a digital nomad and are specifically interested in the digital nomad visa, we have a separate page for the Spain digital nomad visa. Please check it out.
Spain Freelance Visa Overview
Non-Spanish nationals can legally live and work in Spain by applying for the Self-Employed Work Visa—commonly referred to as the freelance visa. This visa allows you to establish a freelance business or operate as a self-employed professional, known in Spain as an autónomo. While “autónomo” literally translates to “autonomous,” it specifically refers to individuals working independently, including freelancers and small business owners.
To start freelancing in Spain, you’ll need to go through an official application process, which includes submitting a viable business plan, proof of qualifications, and evidence of sufficient financial means. Once granted, the visa allows you to reside in Spain for an initial one-year period, which can be renewed. After five years of legal residence, you may qualify for permanent residency.
All foreigners working in Spain—regardless of nationality—must also obtain a foreigner’s identity number (NIE) and register with the Spanish tax authorities and social security system. Once registered, foreign nationals have the same rights and responsibilities as Spanish citizens when it comes to self-employment.
Other benefits of freelancing in Spain include:
Managing your workload flexibly so that you can spend your spare time enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Embracing the opportunity to learn a new language in your spare time, while working in your preferred language.
Immersing yourself in traditional Spanish customs, including having your afternoon siesta!
If you are not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you’ll need to apply for a Self-Employed Work Visa (freelance visa) before you can legally live and work in Spain. In addition to obtaining a foreigner’s identity number (NIE), you’ll also need a tax identification number (NIF)—which can be requested by submitting Form 036—as well as valid liability insurance covering your professional activities.
Becoming a freelancer in Spain is a structured process that may take time, but it’s entirely manageable with the right preparation. You’ll be required to:
Submit a detailed business plan as part of your visa application
Register as an autónomo with the Spanish tax office (Agencia Tributaria)
Enroll in Spain’s social security system and begin monthly contributions
Obtain private health insurance with full coverage, or enroll in the public system once eligible
While the setup involves several steps, once your legal and administrative requirements are in place, starting and running your freelance business in Spain is relatively straightforward.
Who Can Apply for the
Freelance Visa for Spain?
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to live and work in Spain as self-employed professionals can apply for the Self-Employed Work Visa (freelance visa). This visa is required to legally reside in Spain and operate as a freelancer.
EU/EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a visa to freelance in Spain, but they must still register locally and fulfill tax and social security obligations.
How Many Applications Do They Accept Each Year?
Good news! It turns out that Spain is one of the most welcoming countries in the world to foreigners. There is no official cap on the number of freelance visa applications Spain accepts each year. The government reviews each application on an individual basis, focusing on the viability of the business plan and whether the applicant meets all legal and financial requirements. Thousands of applications are submitted annually, and many are approved, especially when the documentation is thorough and complete.
How to Apply for the Freelance Visa for Spain (Step-by-Step)
Applying for Spain’s freelance visa involves several steps and detailed documentation. If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, you must apply from your country of legal residence, typically through a Spanish consulate or embassy.
Step 1: Prepare a Detailed Business Plan
You must submit a realistic and viable business plan that outlines what services you’ll offer, your target market, financial projections, and how your business will benefit Spain.
The plan must be approved by a professional organization relevant to your field. Commonly accepted certifying bodies include:
ATA – Federación Nacional de Asociaciones de Empresarios y Trabajadores Autónomos
OPA – Organización de Profesionales y Autónomos
UATAE – Unión de Asociaciones de Trabajadores Autónomos y Emprendedores
UPTA – Unión de Profesionales y Trabajadores Autónomos
CIAE – Confederación Intersectorial de Autónomos del Estado Español
Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents
You’ll need to collect the following:
Completed National Visa Application Form
Completed EX-07 form (application for residence and self-employment authorization)
Valid passport (at least 1 year before expiration)
Two passport-sized photos
Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, savings, client contracts)
Proof of qualifications or experience in your field
Private health insurance valid in Spain with no copay or waiting period
Criminal background check (issued within 90 days)
Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental agreement, invitation letter, etc.)
Payment of visa fees
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application and documents in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of legal residence. Some consulates require an appointment booked weeks or months in advance.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Processing times vary but typically take 2 to 3 months. You may be contacted for additional information or an interview.
Step 5: Travel to Spain and Apply for Your Residence Card
Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive a national visa valid for entry into Spain. After arrival:
Register your address with the local town hall (empadronamiento)
Apply for your TIE (Foreigner’s Identity Card) within 30 days
Obtain your NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Number)
Register with the tax office and social security as an autónomo
If you want to begin your freelance business before receiving residency, you can register a shareholder and allocate a Spanish resident to act as director. The shareholder you select doesn’t require a residency but should have a NIE.
Requirements for Applying
To successfully apply for the freelance visa, you must meet the following:
Business Plan: A comprehensive plan outlining your services, market, financial projections, and qualifications. This plan must be approved by a relevant professional association, such as:
ATA (Federación Nacional de Asociaciones de Empresarios y Trabajadores Autónomos)
OPA (Organización de Profesionales y Autónomos)
UATAE (Unión de Asociaciones de Trabajadores Autónomos y Emprendedores)
UPTA (Unión de Profesionales y Trabajadores Autónomos)
CIAE (Confederación Intersectorial de Autónomos del Estado Español)
Completed Forms:
National visa application form
Form EX-07 (application for residence and self-employment authorization)
Identification: Valid passport with at least one year before expiration and two recent passport-sized photos
Financial Means: Proof that you have enough funds to support yourself while setting up your business (generally benchmarked against Spain’s IPREM index)
Qualifications: Evidence of your professional skills, degrees, or certifications relevant to your freelance activity
Health Insurance: Private health insurance with full coverage in Spain that meets visa requirements
Background Check: Recent criminal record certificate issued within the last 90 days
Proof of Accommodation: Rental contract, property deed, or invitation letter showing where you will live in Spain
You can find the Form EX-07 here. Unlike applying for a work visa to enter employment, a freelance visa requires you to be over the age of 18.
How much does it cost?
The total cost to apply for the Spain Self-Employed (Freelance) Visa typically ranges from €400 to €700, depending on your country of residence and required services.
Here’s a breakdown of the main expenses:
Visa and Permit Fees:
Application fee: €80 (may be higher for some nationalities, e.g. $270 for U.S. citizens)
Self-employment authorization: approx. €214
Residence permit fee: approx. €11
Medical Certificate:
Required to prove you’re in good health. Costs vary by country, typically €50–€150.
Criminal Background Check:
You’ll need a certificate covering the past 5 years, plus apostille and translation if needed. Costs usually range from €50–€150.
Other Costs:
Certified translations of any non-Spanish documents
Passport photos, mailing fees, and potential apostille or notarization services
Paying Taxes on a Spain Freelancer Visa
As a registered freelancer (autónomo) in Spain, you’ll be required to pay taxes on your income. Your tax rate will depend on your earnings, personal circumstances, and the region where you live.
Here’s what to expect:
Personal Income Tax (IRPF): Progressive rates typically starting around 19%, increasing with higher income levels.
Quarterly Tax Filings: Freelancers must file taxes every quarter.
VAT (IVA): Depending on your services, you may also need to charge and pay 21% VAT.
For accurate, tailored guidance based on your specific situation, it’s best to consult a tax advisor familiar with Spanish freelance regulations. You can book a call with our tax expert for one-on-one support.
Timeline for Applying
The full process of applying for Spain’s freelance visa typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly you can gather your documents and how busy your local consulate is. Most of this time is spent preparing your paperwork, waiting for an available appointment, and then waiting for your visa to be approved (which can take up to 90 days).
After approval, you’ll have 1 month to enter Spain, and 30 days after arrival to register for your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) and social security. To stay on track, start preparing at least 3 to 4 months before your planned move.
For EU Nationals moving to Spain
If you're a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you don’t need a visa to move to Spain or work as a freelancer. You’re free to enter, live, and work in Spain for up to 90 days without registering. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need to:
Register your residence at the local town hall (padrón)
Apply for a EU Citizen Registration Certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión)
Show proof of financial means and valid health insurance
No work permit or special visa is required for freelancing.
For British Nationals moving to Spain
As of 2025, UK nationals are considered third-country nationals under Spanish immigration law. This means you’ll need to follow the same process as other non-EU applicants when applying for a freelance visa (also called a self-employed visa).
To live and work in Spain legally as a freelancer, you’ll need to:
Apply for a self-employed visa through your nearest Spanish consulate in the UK
Provide a business plan, financial proof, criminal background check, and health certificate
Obtain a residence permit and work authorization before moving
Be sure to check with the specific consulate for up-to-date requirements, as they can vary.
Starting a freelance life in Spain takes planning, paperwork, and patience—but it’s absolutely achievable. Whether you're applying from the UK, the US, or elsewhere outside the EU, following the right steps will put you on the path to legally live and work in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries.
If you're ready to begin the process, start preparing your documents and reach out to your local Spanish consulate early. And once you're settled in Spain, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of freelancing, along with everything the Spanish lifestyle has to offer.
¡Que te vaya bien!
FAQs for the Spain Freelance Visa
Does Spain have a freelance visa?
Yes. Spain offers a Self-Employed Work Visa (commonly known as the "autónomo" visa) for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who wish to live and work independently in Spain. This visa allows you to legally operate as a freelancer or run your own business.
What is the Spain freelance visa?
It's a residence and work authorization that permits non-EU citizens to live in Spain and engage in self-employed activities. The initial visa is typically valid for one year and can lead to long-term residency.
How does the freelance visa differ from a tourist visa?
A tourist visa allows short-term stays (up to 90 days) for leisure or business without employment rights. In contrast, the freelance visa grants the legal right to reside and work as a self-employed individual in Spain.
What is the duration of the freelance visa?
The initial visa is valid for one year. Upon renewal, it can be extended for an additional four years, totaling five years. After five continuous years of residency, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Is it possible to extend the Spain freelance visa?
Yes. After the initial one-year period, you can renew the visa for four more years, provided you continue to meet the requirements, such as maintaining your self-employed status, financial stability, and health insurance coverage.
How long does the application process take?
The entire process, from gathering documents to receiving the visa, can take approximately 3 to 6 months. This includes preparation time, appointment scheduling, and processing by the Spanish consulate.
Can I apply for the Spain freelance visa while abroad?
Yes. You must apply from your home country or country of legal residence through the nearest Spanish consulate. Applications from within Spain are generally not accepted for first-time applicants.
What currency is used to pay the visa fees?
All fees must be paid in euros (€), typically at the consulate during your appointment.
Will I receive a refund if my visa application is denied?
No. Visa application fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome.
Can U.S. citizens travel to Spain without a visa?
Yes. U.S. citizens can enter Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes without a visa. However, to live and work as a freelancer, a self-employed visa is required.
Can I get help applying for a Spanish freelance visa?
If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.
Author
Andy Stofferis is a digital nomad blogger: www.andysto.com
He is a contributing writer for various organizations and media involved in the digital nomad industry (AllWork.Space, e-Residency Estonia).
Andy has been running a fully remote digital marketing agency over the past nine years while traveling to more than 50 destinations.
