Digital Nomad Visa for Galicia: Requirements and Complete Guide 2025

What is the digital nomad visa?

Spain's Startup Law (Law 28/2022) created the digital nomad visa, allowing non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in Spain for up to 3 years (extendable to 5). It's one of Europe's most attractive visas due to tax advantages: digital nomads can opt for the special expatriate regime with a flat 15% income tax rate for the first 4 years, compared to the 45% marginal rate in Galicia for high incomes.

Galicia is increasingly popular with digital nomads thanks to its low cost of living (40% cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona), high-speed fiber optics in coastal areas, and exceptional quality of life with beaches, mountains and world-class gastronomy.

Income requirements

You must prove you work for a foreign company or as a freelancer with clients outside Spain. Up to 20% of your work can be for Spanish companies.

Required documentation

1. Valid passport with at least 1 year validity
2. Criminal record certificate from home country and countries of residence (last 5 years)
3. Private health insurance with coverage in Spain
4. Employment contract with foreign company OR proof of remote professional activity
5. Proof of income for the last 3 months
6. University degree or professional experience certificate (minimum 3 years)
7. Tax compliance certificate (if already resident)

Detailed tax advantages

• 15% income tax: On employment income up to €600,000/year. Someone earning €50,000 saves approximately €10,000/year compared to the normal 37% rate in Galicia.
• Foreign income exemption: You don't pay Spanish tax on income generated outside Spain (investments, rental income, capital gains in your home country).
• Double taxation treaties: Spain has treaties with over 90 countries preventing double taxation.
• No wealth tax: Galicia has no wealth tax for assets below €600,000.

Best areas for digital nomads in Galicia

Cost of living comparison

Application process

1. From abroad: At the Spanish consulate. Resolution in 10 working days. You get a 1-year visa.
2. From Spain: At the Foreigner's Office if already legally in the country. Resolution in 20 working days. You get a 3-year authorization.
3. Renewal: Every 2 years, proving you still meet income and professional requirements. Maximum 5 years.

Fees: €60-70 for the visa application, plus translation and legalization costs.

What happens after 5 years?

After 5 years of legal and continuous residence in Spain, you can apply for permanent residency, giving you the same rights as a Spanish citizen (except voting). Depending on your nationality, you may also be eligible for Spanish citizenship after 2-10 years.

Life on the Costa da Morte as a digital nomad

• Nature: 1,500 km of unspoiled coastline, white sand beaches, spectacular cliffs and hiking trails.
• Gastronomy: Fresh seafood from Cee and Corcubión fish markets, pulpo a la gallega, empanadas, Albariño wines. Menu of the day: €10-14.
• Community: Growing expat community in Corcubión, Cee and Fisterra. Active WhatsApp and Meetup groups.
• Sports: Surfing at Razo beach, windsurfing at Baldaio, hiking the Camino de Santiago coastal route, diving.
• Climate: Mild oceanic climate. Gentle winters (8-14°C), pleasant summers (18-25°C).

Contact Cristina Casas Galiza for ideal accommodation on the Costa da Morte as a digital nomad.