Digital Nomads: 5 Factors To Choose Spain for Remote Working

In this article we will show you five factors to choose Spain for remote working.

In the age of telecommuting and global connections, the world has become a place where today you can hold a meeting, interview or get a job done with just the need of a good internet connection. Spain, with its endless sunshine, vibrant culture and tempting siesta tradition, attracts digital nomads with its irresistible charm.

But moving to Spain is not just about working from your laptop on the sunny Costa del Sol for example. There are a lot of things to make sure that everything will go smoothly.

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1. Getting Through Spanish Red Tape

The Path To Obtaining Residency

Starting the adventure by preparing the legal part of the stay is fundamental. Spain has many visa options, from the simple Schengen tourist visa to the non-profit visa for those not working.

Understanding what you need, the paperwork, the costs and the time it takes is very important, but it can take a little time. Don’t be discouraged, dealing with Spanish bureaucracy may seem like a huge problem, but it is part of the journey.

The NIE Number

Like your social security number in your home country, the NIE, or “Número de Identidad de Extranjero”, is your golden ticket to life in Spain. You will need it for everything important, such as opening a bank account, signing rental contracts or other legal formalities. Getting the NIE is an important step to take from the beginning.

2. Work Environment and Community

Co-working Spaces

Spain is fast becoming a hotspot of co-working spaces for remote workers, popping up in major cities and hotspots where digital nomads are located. You’ll find everything from avant-garde shared offices packed with amenities to cozy, bohemian-style cafes perfect for creatives.

Taking the time to find the right coworking space is key.

Community over co-working

The work environment is very important, but it is also important to feel part of a community. Spain is famous for its friendly atmosphere and social lifestyle, making it ideal for digital nomads to immerse themselves in local life. It’s important to go to meet-ups, language exchanges and online forums to meet people who fit your lifestyle.

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With all its incredible historical monuments, breathtaking scenery and fun local events and festivities, it’s easy to be tempted away from your desk. That´s why choosing spain for remote working is so important to set clear boundaries and a solid work schedule.

Plan your work time well, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get out and explore without missing the working pace.

4. Finding Your Perfect Spot and Managing Costs

Best City to Stay

Spain has a place for every type of nomad. Do you want to enjoy a greener landscape with the beautiful cliffs of Galicia or a big city with sea like Barcelona, Valencia or Malaga? How about big cities in the interior with a lot of social life and culture like Madrid, Cordoba or Seville? 

The location you choose can greatly influence your adventures. Think about what is important to you; easy access to the airport, good public transportation, cost of living and whether you like large-scale urban cities or prefer the peacefulness of a small town.

Expenses

In Spain, life is usually much cheaper than in Northern Europe, Australia or the United States, especially when it comes to everyday things. But the cost of living can vary greatly from one city to another. Rent and meals are more affordable, but it influences a lot the region of Spain where you want to settle. Cities like for example Madrid are much more expensive, especially in the rent, but some things can still be cheap.

So plan a budget that covers your basic needs; from your house to your workplace.

5. Health and Safety Abroad

Healthcare and Insurance in Spain

Healthcare in a new country can be a bit tricky, especially for those outside the EU. 

Luckily, Spain offers its residents one of the best public healthcare systems in the world, and many digital nomads find a suitable spot by combining public and private healthcare options with a solid international health insurance plan.

It´s important that you have the right insurance and know how to access healthcare services if you need it.

Cultural Awareness and Personal Safety

Spain is a pretty safe place, but it is always good to stay alert, especially in the bigger cities where things like petty theft can happen.

Getting to know the local customs and safety tips can really help you avoid any hassles and make sure you are feeling comfortable and part of the community.

By the other hand, making a little effort in learning the language, knowing the local emergency numbers and familiarize yourself with the neighbourhood, can go a long way toward making you feel more relaxed.