If you’re planning to stay in Spain on the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), understanding the processes for visa extensions, renewals, and eventually applying for permanent residency or citizenship is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide on what to expect during your time in Spain on this visa.
1. Starting with the One-Year Digital Nomad Visa
Most people begin their journey by applying for the one-year Digital Nomad Visa from their home country through the Spanish consulate. This visa allows you to stay in Spain for one year. However, if you’re from a country that requires a Schengen visa to enter Spain, there’s an important strategy that many digital nomads use:
- Reapply for the Three-Year Residence Authorization: Once you arrive in Spain on the one-year visa, you can immediately reapply for the three-year residence authorization. Many do this to lock in the salary requirement for three years, avoiding potential increases in the minimum income threshold that Spain adjusts annually. Additionally, this strategy reduces the hassle of yearly renewals.
- Document Reuse: If you apply for the three-year residence authorization shortly after arriving in Spain, you can often reuse the documents submitted for your one-year visa application, as they will still be valid. The documents are valid for six (6) months from their date of issuance when applying in Spain.
2. After the Three-Year Residence Authorization
Once you’ve been granted the three-year residence authorization, here’s what comes next:
- Renewal for Two More Years: Sixty days before your three-year authorization expires, you can apply for a renewal. This renewal will extend your stay in Spain by two more years.
- Documents Needed for Renewal: The documents required for renewal are similar to those needed for your initial application. You’ll need to provide:
- Bank statements
- Proof of income or contracts
- A remote work letter from your client or employer
- Essentially, you will need to prove that you continue to meet the eligibility criteria, just as you did for your initial application.
3. Path to Citizenship or Permanent Residency
- Accelerated Citizenship Path for Ibero-American Countries: If you’re from the Philippines or another Ibero-American country, you benefit from an accelerated path to citizenship. After just two years of legal residence in Spain, you can apply for Spanish citizenship. This accelerated path is a unique benefit for nationals of these countries.
- Citizenship for Other Nationalities: For those from countries that do not qualify for the accelerated path, the standard requirement is 10 years of legal residence before you can apply for citizenship. Here’s how that timeline typically works:
- You start with the initial three-year residence authorization.
- After that, you renew for another two years.
- Once you’ve completed a total of five years of residence, you can apply for long-term residency (equivalent to permanent residency).
- After five more years as a long-term resident, bringing your total to 10 years of residence, you’ll be eligible to apply for citizenship.
4. Residency Requirements for Citizenship and Permanent Residency
One important thing to note is that both citizenship and long-term residency have physical presence requirements. This means that to qualify, you need to spend a certain amount of time physically present in Spain. Spending too much time outside the country may disqualify you from applying for permanent residency or citizenship, so it’s important to plan your travel and time in Spain accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa offers a flexible pathway for remote workers to live in Spain while maintaining their international careers. With options to extend your stay and pathways to permanent residency or citizenship, the DNV provides a comprehensive solution for those looking to make Spain their long-term home. Understanding the timelines and requirements for extensions, renewals, and residency will help you plan your future in Spain.
If you need further assistance with your visa renewals, document preparation, or long-term residency options, we’re here to help. Reach out for expert guidance and support through every stage of your journey in Spain.
Leave A Comment