Phase 1: Preparation
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Confirm you’re a non-EU/EEA citizen working remotely for a company or clients outside Spain (max 20% income from Spanish sources allowed).
- Ensure you haven’t lived in Spain illegally .
Step 2: Gather Documents
- Valid passport (min. 1 year validity, 2 blank pages).
- Proof of remote work (e.g., employer letter or contracts, min. 3 months).
- Proof of income .
- Criminal background check (apostilled, from countries lived in past 5 years).
- Private health insurance (authorized in Spain).
- Resume/CV or proof of qualifications (degree or 3+ years experience).
Step 3: Legalize Documents
- Get documents apostilled (if required by your country).
- Translate non-Spanish documents into Spanish by a certified translator.
Phase 2: Application
Step 4: Choose Application Path
- Option A: From Home Country – Apply at your local Spanish consulate/embassy.
- Option B: From Spain – Enter as a tourist and apply within 90 days for a 3-year residence permit.
Step 5: Submit Application
- Complete the National Visa Application Form.
- Book an appointment at the consulate (for Option A) or local immigration office (for Option B).
- Pay the visa fee.
- Submit all documents and passport (consulate keeps it during processing).
Phase 3: Processing
Step 6: Wait for Approval
- Processing takes 15-45 days (consulate) or ~20 days (in Spain).
- Track status if provided a link by the consulate.
- If denied, appeal within 30 days with additional documents.
Step 7: Receive Visa
- Collect passport with visa (1-year validity) from consulate within 1 month (Option A).
- For Option B, proceed directly to residence permit steps.
Phase 4: Arrival & Residency
Step 8: Enter Spain
- Use your visa to enter Spain (Option A).
- Register at local City Hall (Empadronamiento) within 30 days.
Step 9: Apply for Residence Permit (if needed)
- If on a 1-year visa, apply for a 3-year residence permit within 60 days of arrival at the local immigration office.
- Submit biometrics (fingerprints/photo) at a police station (appointment required).
- Pay TIE fee .
Step 10: Get TIE Card
- Wait ~30 days for your Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) residency card.
- Card is valid for 3 years (renewable for 2 more years).
Phase 5: Renewal (Optional)
Step 11: Extend Your Stay
- Apply for renewal 60 days before expiry (or 90 days after).
- Prove continued remote work and income.
- After 5 years total, apply for permanent residency if desired.