Valencia has become one of Europe’s most beloved destinations for digital nomads. With over 300 days of sunshine, a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, Mediterranean beaches, and affordable living, it’s no wonder remote workers are flocking to the city.

But before settling into your favourite café in Ruzafa or booking an apartment near the Turia gardens, it’s crucial to understand what visas allow digital nomads to legally live and work in Valencia—and what happens if your income sources change once you are in Spain.

This guide breaks down the key visa pathways for EU and non-EU nationals, plus an important next step if you hold the Digital Nomad Visa and earn more than 20% of your income from Spain.

1. For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

If you are from the European Union, EEA, or Switzerland, you benefit from freedom of movement. That means:

You do NOT need a visa to live or work in Spain, including Valencia.

However, staying longer than 3 months requires completing a few administrative steps:

• Register your residency and obtain the Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión (the “green card”).
• Apply for an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) – often done at the same time.
• Register with the local town hall (empadronamiento).
• Arrange health insurance (either private or Spanish public health if you qualify).

Best for:
Remote workers, freelancers, employees of foreign companies, entrepreneurs—basically anyone who wants to stay medium- or long-term.

2. For Non-EU Citizens: Digital Nomad Visa (Visado de Nómada Digital)

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) has become one of the most attractive remote-work visas in Europe. It allows non-EU workers to live in Spain while working remotely for non-Spanish companies.

Key Requirements

• Proof that you work remotely: either as
  • an employee of a foreign company, or
  • a freelancer with mostly non-Spanish clients.
• A university degree OR 3+ years of professional experience.
• Income meeting the minimum threshold (in 2025, the amount is €33.152/year for the main applicant; updated periodically). If you come with family members, the amount increases.
• A contract or proof of continued professional relationship for at least 3 months.
• Clear criminal background check.
• Health insurance (unless applying from within Spain and joining Social Security).

Income Rule: The 20% Limit

To qualify, no more than 20% of your income can come from Spanish clients or Spanish companies.

Validity

• 1-year visa if applying from your home country.
• If applying from within Spain (as a tourist), you receive a 3-year residency permit that can be renewed for 2 more years.

Why Digital Nomads Love It

• Residency in Spain (including Valencia!)
• The ability to travel freely in the Schengen Area
• A special tax regime option (Beckham Law) with a flat 24% tax rate on qualifying income for up to 6 years

3. Other Visas for Non-EU Citizens Who Want to Live in Valencia

A. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)

A residency visa that prohibits any work (remote or local). It requires proving passive income or savings.
Not suitable for digital nomads who actively work, even if clients are abroad.

B. Self-Employed Visa (Autónomo Visa)

For freelancers who plan to work with Spanish clients or run a business in Spain.
Requires a detailed business plan and registration as autónomo.

C. Highly Qualified Professional Visa

For employees of Spanish companies in specialized roles.
Not a typical nomad route, but possible for certain remote-friendly industries.

What Happens If You Have the Digital Nomad Visa and Start Earning More Than 20% of Your Income From Spain?

This is one of the most common questions digital nomads in Spain face—and an important one.

Short Answer:

If more than 20% of your income comes from Spanish clients, you no longer meet the requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa.

But that does not mean you must leave Spain.
Instead, you should switch to a different residency type that does allow earning income from Spain.

Your Best Next Step: Switch to the Self-Employed Residency (Autónomo Visa / Cuenta Propia)

This visa/residency type allows you to:

• Work directly with Spanish clients
• Register as autónomo (freelancer)
• Invoice Spanish companies legally
• Continue living in Valencia long-term

How to Switch

If you are already legally residing in Spain under the DNV, you can apply for a modificación (permit modification).

You will need:

• A viable business plan
• Proof of professional qualifications
• Financial projections
• Registration in the Spanish Social Security system as autónomo
• Any new contracts with Spanish clients

Tip: This process can take time and involves specific documentation, so it’s wise to consult with an immigration lawyer or gestoría familiar with nomad permits.

Conclusion: Valencia Welcomes Digital Nomads—Just Make Sure You Pick the Right Path

Whether you’re from the EU, the Americas, Asia, or anywhere else, Valencia offers an extraordinary lifestyle for digital nomads. The key is choosing the visa that matches your work style—and knowing when you need to switch to another permit.

Summary

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No visa required; just register locally.
• Non-EU citizens: The Digital Nomad Visa is the most nomad-friendly option—but with a strict 20% cap on Spanish income.
• If you exceed the 20% threshold, Transition to the Self-Employed Residency (Autónomo) to stay compliant and remain in Valencia.