When considering applying for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), an important decision is whether to apply from your home country or upon arrival in Spain. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your specific situation and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations to help you decide where to submit your application.
Applying in the Philippines: Pros and Cons
- Visa Duration: When you apply for the DNV from the Philippines, you are granted a one-year visa. After the first year, you can renew and re-apply in Spain.
- Lower Income Requirement: One of the advantages of applying from the Philippines is that you’ll need to show a lower monthly income to meet the visa requirements. This can be beneficial if your earnings are on the lower end of the eligibility threshold.
- Additional Requirements:
- You will need medical insurance that covers your stay in Spain.
- A medical clearance is also required, which involves undergoing tests and getting your results apostilled. This can add complexity and time to your application process.
- Passports Held During Processing: One downside is that your passport will be held by the consulate throughout the application process. If you have travel plans during this period, this can be inconvenient and may delay your ability to travel.
- Potential Delays: Recently, some applicants have experienced delays when processing their applications through the consulate in the Philippines. If you have an urgent need to be in Spain or other travel obligations, this could be a challenge.
- Best for Non-Urgent Situations: If you’re not in a rush to be in Spain and don’t have pressing travel plans, applying from the Philippines may be more convenient due to the lower income requirements and the ability to get a visa before arriving in Spain.
Applying in Spain: Pros and Cons
- Longer Residence Authorization: If you apply for the DNV while in Spain, you are granted a three-year residence authorization. This longer initial period may offer more stability if you’re planning a longer stay in Spain.
- Higher Income Requirement: A major difference when applying in Spain is that you’ll need to demonstrate a higher monthly income compared to applying from the Philippines. This could be a deciding factor if your earnings are closer to the eligibility threshold.
- Schengen Visa Needed: To apply in Spain, you’ll first need to enter the country on a Schengen visa. This means you must apply for and obtain a Schengen visa before arriving in Spain to submit your DNV application. If you have a good travel history, this should be a good option for you.
- Higher Initial Costs: Applying in Spain can be more expensive upfront. You’ll need to cover travel costs such as flights and accommodation, which can add up quickly. Additionally, you’ll need to account for your living expenses during the application process.
- Best for Those Ready to Relocate: Applying in Spain can be a good option if you’re prepared for the higher costs and ready to relocate immediately. The longer residence authorization also offers the benefit of fewer renewals during your stay.
Which Option is Right for You?
There isn’t a single “best” option for everyone—it depends on your personal circumstances. Here are some key points to consider:
- If your income meets the higher threshold and you’re ready for the higher initial costs with a good travel history, applying in Spain may offer greater long-term stability with a three-year residence authorization.
- If you prefer lower income requirements and aren’t in a rush to travel, applying from the Philippines could be more convenient, provided you don’t have immediate travel plans that could be disrupted by processing delays.
Each pathway has its pros and cons, so think carefully about your situation, travel plans, and financial readiness before making a decision. If you need personalized advice or assistance with your application, reach out to us for expert guidance tailored to your needs.
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