It's a revolutionary new idea, but one that's taking the employers by storm
Spain's government is planning a "digital nomad" visa scheme to lure in more international remote workers to the country, according to various reports. The law on the visa scheme has yet to be passed, according to The Guardian, but it has been reported that the scheme would be open to workers who are working remotely for companies outside Spain.
They also need to be workers based outside of the European Economic Area, Euronews reported, and they should be able to provide proof that they are under remote work for at least a year.
Remote workers earning 20% of their income from Spanish firms will also be welcome to apply, according to reports, while freelancers need to show that they are regularly employed by non-Spanish companies.
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The new scheme aims to offer workers a gateway to the popular European country, which boasts world-famous destinations, high-speed internet, and a relatively lower cost of living.
According to Euronews, the digital nomad visas will be valid for 12 months at first, but remote workers can extend this for up to five years depending on their situation. Their close relatives, including children and spouses, may also qualify as visa holders under the scheme.
These workers will also be receiving a tax incentive of 15%, instead of the 25% base rate, in their first four years in the country, making it easier for remote workers to settle in.
Should Spain's government pass the law on digital nomads, the country joins other nations that are offering similar schemes, such as Germany, Estonia, Norway, Mexico, and Portugal, among others.
Read more: Feeling restless? Why not try life as a 'digital nomad'?
A "digital nomad" is a phrase commonly referring to employees utilising technology to perform remote work in countries where they are not a permanent resident. While considered illegal in other countries, the introduction of a visa legalises the act and gives them the right to work remotely while away from their country of residence.
Interest in becoming a digital nomad has picked up ever since the emergence of remote work. In 2020, the number of digital nomads in the United States surged almost 50% to 11 million, before rising again to 15.5 million in 2021, reported Forbes, citing data from the MBO Partners 2021 State of Independence Study.
