In-depth articles about Spanish visas, tax benefits, cost of living, and practical guides for moving to Spain. Written by our team of licensed immigration specialists.
Yes, Americans can legally work remotely from Spain using the Digital Nomad Visa (Visado para teletrabajo de carácter internacional), introduced under Spain's Startup Act (Ley 28/2022). This visa grants a 1-year initial residency, renewable for 3-year periods, and includes eligibility for Spain's Beckham Law tax regime.
Spain and Portugal both offer Digital Nomad Visas for remote workers, but they differ significantly in income requirements, tax treatment, processing times, and lifestyle. Spain requires €2,849/month income and offers the Beckham Law (24% flat tax for 6 years), while Portugal requires €3,510/month and ended its NHR tax regime in 2024.
The total cost of moving to Spain in 2026 ranges from €5,000 to €15,000 depending on your visa type, family size, and chosen city. Monthly income requirements range from €600/month (Student Visa) to €2,849/month (Digital Nomad Visa). Here's a complete breakdown of every cost involved.
Spain's Beckham Law (Régimen Especial de Trabajadores Desplazados, IRPF Article 93) allows Digital Nomad Visa holders to pay a flat 24% income tax rate for up to 6 years, instead of Spain's progressive rates of 19–47%. This can save a remote worker earning €80,000/year approximately €8,000–€12,000 annually in taxes.
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is a unique identification number assigned to all foreigners in Spain. You need it for almost everything: opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, paying taxes, buying property, getting a phone contract, or starting a business. It's a simple white paper certificate with your number, obtained at a police station.