Spain’s telework visa: EUR 2,442 a month and a 20 percent rule.

Start with the telework visa

Spain’s international telework visa is for people working remotely for companies outside Spain. The Washington consulate sets the 2026 amounts at 200 percent of the monthly minimum wage for the main applicant.

You must also qualify as a professional. That means a degree or postgraduate study from a recognized institution, or at least three years of professional experience.

The visa itself lasts up to one year. You then apply for a residence authorization inside Spain.

Source: Spanish consulate in Washington, telework visa

Working here

Local jobs are hard to get for newcomers, and the telework visa is not built for them. It covers work for companies outside Spain.

Freelancers get one opening. If you work as a professional, companies in Spain may make up no more than 20 percent of your total work. The visa does not allow work for private individuals, government agencies, universities, foundations or nonprofits.

Opening a shop or café falls outside this visa. Ask the consulate about a separate self-employment permit before you plan any local business.

Source: Spanish consulate in Washington, telework visa

What counts as proof

The Washington checklist lists proof of income, a sworn statement on criminal records for the past five years, and health insurance from a company authorized to operate in Spain. Documents in English need a certified translation.

Keep your employment contract or client contracts, pay records and proof of your degree or experience in one folder.

Source: Spanish consulate in Washington, telework visa

Retirement second: the non-lucrative visa

The non-lucrative visa is for people who support themselves without working. The 2026 benchmark is 2,400 euros (EUR), about US$2,772 a month for the main applicant plus 600 euros (EUR), about US$693 for each family member.

It does not allow any work, remote work included. If you still earn a paycheck, this is the wrong visa.

These figures prove means to the consulate. They are not a budget for rent, insurance and flights home.

Source: Spanish Foreign Ministry, non-lucrative visa 2026 amountsSpanish consulate in Washington, non-lucrative residence visa

Health insurance before Medicare

The telework checklist asks for public or private health insurance from a company authorized to operate in Spain. Buy it before your appointment.

Medicare usually does not cover care outside the United States, and Medicare drug plans do not pay for prescriptions bought abroad. Decide whether to keep Part B for visits home.

Source: Spanish consulate in Washington, telework visaMedicare, travel outside the U.S.

US tax filing still applies

US citizens file a US return every year, wherever they live. A Spanish visa does not change that.

Spain taxes its residents too. Ask a tax adviser who knows both countries before you move.

Source: IRS, US citizens and resident aliens abroad