Requirement Overview
When applying for the Residence Authorization for Teleworkers (Digital Nomad Visa) through the Unidad de Grandes Empresas (UGE) while already in Spain, you must provide a complete copy of every page of your valid passport. This is a primary identification requirement for freelancers under the Startup Law (Ley 28/2022).
Why It Is Needed
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Startup Law framework, the authorities use the full passport copy to:
- Verify your identity and nationality.
- Confirm you are legally in Spain at the time of application (e.g., via entry stamps).
- Calculate physical presence for tax residency purposes under the 183-day rule (Agencia Tributaria), which determines if you will be taxed on worldwide income (IRPF).
Acceptable Documents
- A high-quality scan or photocopy of every single page, including covers and blank pages.
- The passport must have a minimum remaining validity and at least two blank pages.
- If you entered Spain from another Schengen country without an entry stamp, you should include a document proving your date of entry (like a boarding pass).
Formalities: Apostille and Translation
- Apostille: Generally, the passport itself does not require an apostille as it is a primary international identity document.
- Translation: Passports usually contain English or Spanish labels (biometric info); therefore, a sworn translation is typically not required for the identity pages.
Common Pitfalls
- Missing Pages: Applicants often only scan the bio-data page. You must include all blank pages to prove your travel history.
- Expired Passport: Ensure the passport is valid for the duration of the initial application process.
- NIE Requirement: Remember that while the passport identifies you, you will also need to obtain an NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) for subsequent steps like registering with the Seguridad Social as an autónomo.