Remote Working in Spain

Spain is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for remote workers, offering a unique mix of fantastic weather, rich culture, and a relaxed lifestyle. If you’re an experienced digital nomad looking for your next base, Spain is an ideal choice. In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about remote working in Spain, from setting up your workspace to navigating legal requirements, without over-complicating things.

Why Choose Spain for Remote Work?

Spain offers a lot to digital nomads seeking a change of scenery:

• Fantastic Climate: Spain enjoys a sunny Mediterranean climate, especially in the south, where you can expect over 300 days of sunshine a year.
• Affordable Living: While cities like Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive, many towns and smaller cities offer affordable housing, food, and a great quality of life.
• High Quality of Life: Spain’s lifestyle is relaxed, and the healthcare system is top-notch. This makes it a great place to base yourself for the long term.
• Time Zone Benefits: Spain’s time zone (Central European Time) makes it easy to work with clients or companies across Europe and even some parts of the Americas.

Preparation

Before you pack your bags, there are a few things to keep in mind to make remote working in Spain a smooth experience.

1. Reliable Internet Access

As a remote worker, reliable internet is a must. In major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, high-speed fibre optic internet is widely available. If you plan to stay in a smaller town or more rural area, it’s worth checking ahead to ensure you can get the connectivity you need.

Most cafés and co-working spaces also provide free Wi-Fi, but having a stable home connection is key if you need to make video calls or work on large files.

2. Co-working Spaces

Spain has plenty of co-working spaces, especially in major cities. These spaces are perfect for meeting like-minded people, staying productive, and having access to office facilities like meeting rooms and printers. Some popular options include:

• WeWork in Madrid and Barcelona
• Impact Hub in Madrid
• Aticco in Barcelona
• Vortex Coworking in Valencia

Many co-working spaces offer flexible packages, so whether you need a desk for a day or a month, there are plenty of options.

3. Accommodation

Finding a good place to live is important. Spain offers a range of options, from city centre apartments to countryside villas. For short stays, Airbnb is a popular choice. If you’re staying longer, you can find rentals on sites like Idealista or Spotahome, or even rent directly from landlords through local estate agents.

Legal Considerations for Remote Work

Spain has recently introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows remote workers to live in Spain for up to a year, with the option to extend. If you’re from a country that doesn’t require a Schengen visa for short stays, you can stay in Spain for up to 90 days without any formal visa. However, if you plan to stay longer, the Digital Nomad Visa is your best option.

The visa allows you to legally live and work remotely in Spain while working for a company based outside Spain. To apply, you need to show proof of income and health insurance, but for now, let’s focus on the wider aspects of enjoying your time in Spain.

Work-Life Balance in Spain

One of the best things about Spain is how easy it is to balance work and play. There’s no shortage of things to do when you’re not working, whether you’re exploring the countryside, enjoying the coastline, or experiencing Spain’s vibrant cities.

• Cultural Attractions: Spain is home to world-class museums, incredible architecture, and historic landmarks. Whether it’s visiting the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Alhambra in Granada, there’s always something to see.
• Outdoor Adventures: Spain’s diverse geography means you can spend your weekends hiking in the mountains, relaxing on the beach, or even skiing in the Pyrenees.
• Food and Drink: Spain is famous for its food, from tapas to paella. No matter where you are, you’ll find excellent cuisine to try and a relaxed dining culture to enjoy.

Practical Tips for Remote Workers

1. Banking

Setting up a bank account can be helpful if you’re staying in Spain for an extended period. Some of the larger banks like BBVA and CaixaBank offer accounts for non-residents, making it easier to handle day-to-day expenses. If you prefer digital banking, Revolut and N26 are great options for managing your money on the go.

2. Healthcare

Spain has a top-notch healthcare system. If you’re staying for more than 90 days, you’ll need private health insurance. This is a requirement for the Digital Nomad Visa, but even short-term travellers should consider health coverage for peace of mind.

3. Taxes

If you stay in Spain for more than 183 days in a year, you may be considered a tax resident, which means you’ll need to pay Spanish taxes on your global income. Be sure to consult a tax advisor to understand how the rules apply to your situation, especially if you plan on staying long-term.

Remote working in Spain offers the perfect mix of a laid-back lifestyle and a productive work environment. Whether you’re staying for a few months or applying for the Digital Nomad Visa to stay longer, Spain provides everything you need to live and work remotely in comfort.

From affordable living and excellent internet to its rich culture and stunning scenery, Spain makes it easy for digital nomads to enjoy a high quality of life while staying productive. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll find Spain to be an ideal location for remote working.