Requirement Overview
For digital nomad contractors (self-employed or remote workers), the Shareholder Certificate (or equivalent company structure document) is used to prove the existence and legitimacy of the foreign entity you work for. Under Ley 28/2022 (Startup Law), applicants must demonstrate a continuous professional relationship with a non-Spanish company for at least three months prior to the application.
Why it is Needed
According to the Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, the visa requires proof that the company is real, active, and located outside of Spain. If you are an owner-contractor, this document clarifies your authority to work remotely and confirms the business's legal standing.
Evidence and Documents
To satisfy this requirement, you typically provide:
- A certificate from the relevant foreign National Trade Register or Companies House.
- An official document showing the company's date of incorporation (must be at least 1 year old).
- A certificate indicating the current shareholders or directors to prove who has the power to sign your contract or authorization letter.
Apostille and Translation
Documents issued by foreign authorities must generally be:
- Apostilled: Required for all non-EU public documents to be valid in Spain.
- Sworn Translation: Documents not in Spanish must be translated by an official translator (traductor jurado) recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Common Pitfalls
- Company Age: The company must have been active for at least one year.
- Relationship Duration: Failing to show that your specific relationship with the company is at least three months old.
- Unsigned Documents: Ensure certificates are recently issued and contain verifiable signatures or digital verification codes.