India Eyes Spain: Nomad Visa Replaces Golden Visa

As European Golden Visa programs become more expensive and bureaucratic, Indian professionals are showing a sharp increase in inquiries for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa since late 2025. This shift is driven by the visa's lower financial commitment, requiring documented remote income of approximately €2,700-€3,000 per month, compared to the substantial investments previously demanded by Golden Visas.

The visa targets employees of foreign companies, freelancers, and startup founders with remote roles, requiring at least 80% of income to be from outside Spain. Applicants must demonstrate stable remote income, a clean criminal record, and private health insurance. The application process from India typically takes four to sixteen weeks.

Furthermore, qualifying digital nomads can elect for Spain's 'Beckham Law' expat tax regime upon establishing tax residency. This allows for a flat 24% tax rate on employment income up to €600,000 for up to six years, a significant reduction from the standard progressive tax rates. This favorable tax structure, combined with straightforward residency rights and Schengen Area access, positions Spain as a highly competitive destination.

Spain's Digital Nomad Visa offers a residence permit with Schengen mobility, straightforward family reunification, and a pathway to permanent residence after five years and citizenship after ten. This contrasts with other destinations like the UAE, which offers a shorter renewable stay without a direct path to permanent residency. While Spain's rules are expected to see only gradual adjustments, potential applicants with complex finances or very fast residency ambitions are advised to compare alternatives carefully.