Moving to Spain on the digital nomad visa: Helping your employer to help you
A few years ago, Spain opened its doors to digital nomads, with a visa designed for remote workers who want to base themselves in one of Europe’s most desirable destinations. From Barcelona’s beaches to Seville’s orange-scented streets, the appeal is obvious. But anyone who has ever tried to handle Spanish bureaucracy will tell you the same thing: the paperwork can be legendary.
The good news is that, while these stories are not apocryphal, they don’t have to be a dealbreaker either.
With the right preparation, employer support, and expert guidance, the process of moving to Spain on the digital nomad visa can be surprisingly smooth.
That’s why we have created a brand new guide to help get your boss on board, to support you on your way.
Understanding what your employer really needs to do
One of the biggest myths surrounding the Spanish digital nomad visa is that employers will be put through a costly or complex process. That’s simply not the case. Employers do need to provide supporting documents for you, but they do not need to set up a branch in Spain, register locally, or pay Spanish payroll taxes if the paperwork is handled correctly. They don’t need to hire through an Employer of Record either - in fact any of these moves would be specifically outside the visa requirements.
What they will need to do is provide confirmation of your role, proof that the company has been trading for at least a year, and details showing you are employed under conditions compatible with remote work. For employers, the costs are minimal—but their cooperation is crucial. Without it, the visa application cannot move forward.
That’s where having a clear guide for your employer becomes invaluable. You need to show them that supporting your application is straightforward, low-risk, and actually beneficial for the company in the long term.
Making the business case for your move
Employers want to know why they should back you. Fortunately, the benefits of supporting an employee on Spain’s digital nomad visa are compelling:
Quality of life leads to productivity: happier employees are more focused, less stressed, and better able to deliver results. Spain’s climate, lifestyle, and affordability directly contribute to employee well-being. That means greater effectiveness day-to-day, and less time off sick.
Business continuity and disaster resilience: when teams are spread across different countries and time zones, businesses are less exposed to local risks - whether that’s power outages, strikes, or natural disasters. Spain provides another strategic base, with excellent connectivity and communications infrastructure.
Attracting and retaining talent: offering flexibility and international opportunities makes employers stand out in a competitive hiring market. And there is no question that you will be loyal and grateful to an employer who supports your lifestyle aspirations and supports this move for you.
The truth about Spanish bureaucracy
Even if you get your employer onside, the paperwork is not something to underestimate. Spain’s administration can be slow, inconsistent, and very detail-oriented. Missing one form or deadline, forgetting a signature, or misunderstanding the requirements could mean frustrating delays.
This is where the right partner makes all the difference. At Remote Work Europe, we’ve collaborated with Entre Trámites, an expert team that specialises in guiding applicants through Spain’s administrative maze. They’ll ensure your application is not only complete but also positioned for approval, and they’ll be there to support you even after you’ve arrived, with all the ongoing tasks required.
Those of us already here moan about the ‘Spain Pain’ - but the fact that we ARE still here is proof that it’s all worth it in the end (especially with the right professional support to manage it.)
Getting started with confidence
If Spain has been calling your name, the digital nomad visa offers a structured path to make it happen. The process does require your employer’s buy-in, and it does require careful handling of the documentation, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
We’ve created a free guide you can download today, designed to help your employer understand the exact steps they need to take to support you in making your move. It also helps to make the business case for their supporting you, and take the uncertainty out of the application process, with detailed document requirements, templates, and checklists. With Entre Trámites ready to step in and manage the finer points, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying Spain’s sunshine, culture, and unbeatable quality of life.
Backing an employee’s digital nomad visa isn’t them doing you a favour. It’s a smart business decision on their part. And the right professional support, in English, is there to support them too.