What this requirement is
As part of the application for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa (under the Startup Law / Ley 28/2022), freelancer applicants must prove they have an established professional relationship with clients outside of Spain. The home-country self-employment registration is the formal proof that you are legally authorized to conduct business in your current place of residence.
Why it is needed
Per Ley 28/2022, the Spanish government requires evidence of at least 3 months of prior relationship with your foreign clients. Official registration proves you are not merely a casual worker but a professional entity with a track record. This documentation establishes the timeline of your professional activity to ensure you meet the minimum experience or relationship thresholds.
Documents that satisfy the requirement
- Tax Registration: Proof of registration with your home country's tax authority (equivalent to the Spanish Hacienda).
- Certificate of Good Standing: An official document from a corporate or professional registry.
- Social Security Records: Proof of contributions as a self-employed person in your home country.
- Business License: For those operating through a regulated professional structure.
Legalization and Translation
Because these are foreign public documents, they typically require:
- The Hague Apostille: To verify the document's authenticity for use in Spain.
- Sworn Translation: Documents must be translated into Spanish by an official translator (Traductor Jurado) recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Common Pitfalls
- Insufficient Duration: The document must show you have been active for at least 3 months prior to the application.
- Mismatched Data: Ensure the legal name and tax ID on your registration match the invoices and contracts provided in the rest of your application.
- Expired Documents: Ensure the certificates are recently issued (usually within the last 90 days).