Requirement Overview
As a digital nomad freelancer applying for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, you must prove that the company or companies you maintain a professional relationship with have been operational for at least one year prior to your application. This is a core mandate of the Ley 28/2022 (Startup Law).
Why it is Needed
Under the Spanish Startup Law (Ley 28/2022), the government requires evidence that the source of your income is stable and that the foreign employer or client is a legitimate, pre-existing entity. This ensures that the nomad is working for an established business rather than a shell company created specifically for the visa process.
Satisfactory Evidence
To meet this requirement, you must provide documentation showing the company's date of incorporation or registration. Common documents include:
- Certificate of Incorporation: Showing the entity was registered at least 12 months ago.
- Certificate of Good Standing: Issued by the foreign commercial registry.
- Tax Registration Documents: Proof of the company's tax ID and activity start date.
Note that as a freelancer, you also need to prove your own relationship with these clients has existed for at least 3 months prior to the application.
Translation and Legalization
Since these documents are issued by foreign entities, the following applies:
- Apostille: Documents must be legalized or apostilled if issued outside the EU (per the Hague Convention).
- Sworn Translation: Any document not in Spanish must be translated by a traductor jurado (official sworn translator recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
Common Pitfalls
- Insufficient History: Submitting documents for a company that has been active for only 11 months will result in a rejection.
- Expired Certificates: Using an old Certificate of Good Standing; usually, these must be issued within 90 days of the visa appointment.
- Lack of Client Proof: For freelancers, simply proving the business exists is not enough; you must also demonstrate your specific 3-month ongoing relationship with them.