How to get a freelance visa for Spain

Spain has quickly become one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for freelancers, remote workers and self-employed creatives. With its warm Mediterranean climate, high quality of life and beautiful cities, it’s no wonder that professionals from around the world are choosing to live and work in such an exciting country.

But if you’re planning to stay longer than 90 days in Spain and want to work legally as a freelancer, you’ll need to get yourself a freelance visa for Spain, also known as a self-employment visa (visado de trabajo por cuenta propia).

This guide walks you through each step of the process, including:

• Who needs a freelance visa for Spain
• Eligibility requirements, including how to prove your qualifications and finances
• Step-by-step application instructions from your home country
• A detailed breakdown of the documents you’ll need, including health insurance requirements
• What to expect after arriving in Spain
• Top tips for choosing the best city for your freelance lifestyle

What is the Spanish freelance visa?

Spain’s freelance visa is part of the country’s effort to attract independent professionals who want to contribute to the local economy while enjoying life in one of Europe’s most culturally rich and affordable destinations. It's a residence permit designed for people who aren’t tied to a single employer and who intend to work for multiple clients, run their own projects, or offer specialised services on a self-employed basis.

This visa isn't just a work permit: it’s a pathway to establishing a long-term life in Spain. It allows you to register with local tax and social security systems, access public healthcare and eventually apply for permanent residency. For professionals who want more than a temporary stay and are ready to legally embed themselves into Spanish life and bureaucracy, the freelance visa offers a structured, official route.

Who needs one?

The freelance visa is designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who want to live in Spain while working independently or building a business. Whether you're offering online services, consulting, design, development, tutoring, or creative work, this visa allows you to work legally while enjoying the benefits of Spanish residency.

If you're a citizen of the EU or EEA, you don't need a visa to live and work in Spain. However, you still need to register locally, obtain a NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) and ensure you have valid health insurance.

For everyone else, the freelance visa is your gateway to Spain’s contractor and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Who qualifies for a freelance visa in Spain?

You’ll need to meet several eligibility requirements to qualify for the freelance visa. Spanish immigration authorities are looking for applicants who can support themselves, contribute to the economy and provide evidence of a viable freelance business or project.

Professional background

You must show that you're qualified to work in your chosen field. This can include university degrees, professional licenses, certifications or a portfolio of your work to date. Some applicants choose to submit LinkedIn profiles, websites or client testimonials too.

Business plan

You’ll need to demonstrate that your freelance activity is real and sustainable. A simple business plan outlining your services, target clients, pricing and expected monthly income is often required. If you plan to work with Spanish clients or companies, letters of intent or client contracts will strengthen your case.

Financial stability

You must prove that you can support yourself in Spain without relying on public assistance. This often means showing savings of at least €9,000 to €10,000 in a personal account or contracts that guarantee steady income. The actual amount may vary by consulate or depending on the number of dependents in your family, if any.

Clean criminal record

You’ll need to provide a criminal background check from your country of residence, which must be legalised and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator. This assures the Spanish authorities that you pose no security risk.

Health insurance coverage

Spanish consulates require comprehensive health coverage that mirrors the Spanish public healthcare system. You’ll need to have visa-compliant health insurance that covers you from the moment you arrive in Spain. It must be:

• Valid in Spain
• Equivalent to public coverage (no co-payments or exclusions)
• Fully comprehensive
• Issued before your visa appointment

Feather’s private expat health insurance meets all these criteria, with instant confirmation documents that are accepted at Spanish consulates.

How to apply for a freelance visa for Spain

The application must be submitted in person at your local Spanish consulate or embassy in the country where you legally live. You can’t apply from within Spain on a tourist visa.

Step 1: Prepare your documents

Be meticulous. Each document should be complete, translated into Spanish if necessary and presented in the exact format requested by your consulate. Being prepared makes a big difference.

Key documents required include:

• Completed visa application forms
• Valid passport (with at least one year remaining and two blank pages for stamps)
• Recent passport-sized photos (35mm x 45mm in size)
• Business plan
• Proof of qualifications or relevant work experience
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, income contracts)
• Private health insurance policy
• Criminal background check (apostilled and translated)
• Medical certificate stating that you’re in good health

Some consulates also require a sworn declaration that you will not work for an employer in Spain, only as a freelancer.

Step 2: Submit your application

Book an appointment at your nearest Spanish consulate, taking with you both original documents and photocopies. You’ll have a short interview, during which you may be asked about your business plan or qualifications.

Step 3: Wait for a decision

Visa processing times vary but can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks. During this period, the consulate will forward your application to the Spanish immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería) for review.

If approved, you’ll receive a visa sticker in your passport. This allows you to enter Spain and apply for your residence card.

After you arrive in Spain, what comes next?

Getting your visa is only the first step. After arriving in Spain, you’ll need to complete several legal and bureaucratic tasks within your first 30 days:

1. Register your address (Empadronamiento)

Visit your local town hall (ayuntamiento) and provide your lease agreement to register your residence. You’ll receive a certificate of registration, which you’ll need for your residence permit.

2. Apply for your NIE and residence card (TIE)

Your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreigner ID number in Spain. It’s used for taxes, contracts and banking. You’ll also need to apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), which is your physical residency card.

This is done at the Oficina de Extranjería in your province. Bring your passport, visa, address registration and passport-size photographs with you to your appointment.

3. Open a bank account

While some banks allow foreigners to open accounts with just a passport, most will ask for your NIE and proof of residence, so be sure to follow these steps in order.

How long does the freelance visa last?

The initial freelance visa is valid for one year. You can renew it in Spain if:

• You’re still self-employed
• You’re earning enough to support yourself
• You have valid health insurance
• You’re still residing legally in Spain

The renewal is typically for two years, and after five years of continuous residence, you may apply for permanent residency if required.

The best Spanish cities for freelancers

Spain really does offer something for everyone. Here are some of the top choices:

• Barcelona: Truly international and artistic, it’s a real hub for startups and offers great coworking spaces
• Madrid: It has capital energy, a real business focus, plenty of museums and a winning cultural life
• Valencia: Affordable, sunny and with a growing digital scene, what’s not to like?
• Seville: Traditional charm, mild winters and lively expat groups makes Seville a great choice
• Málaga: Coastal and with a laid-back vibe, Málaga is a popular choice for solo freelancers

Many freelancers also explore lesser-known towns or regions like Granada, Bilbao or the Canary Islands for lower rent and a great quality of life.

Begin your new life in Spain

Starting a freelance life in Spain is an exciting opportunity but it requires planning, patience and paperwork. The key to success is understanding what Spanish immigration officials are looking for: legal compliance, financial stability and proper health coverage. Feather makes the latter part easy with affordable, digital health insurance plans that are easy to sign up for online and available fully in English.

By following this step-by-step guide and preparing your documents carefully, you’ll be well on your way to building a rewarding life in Spain.