How long does the immigration process take?
Generally, 3 months for Immigration Office decisions, and 4–8 weeks for consular visas. If no decision is issued in time, the application may be deemed rejected (with exceptions).
Residence permits - General Information
What if my application is denied?
Legal appeal options include administrative reconsideration or judicial review. Legal support improves chances significantly.
How long does it take to get a residence permit approved?
It depends on the type of permit. Some are processed in 20 business days (e.g., Highly Qualified Professional), while others may take several months. We monitor your application status and help speed up the process where possible.
Can I apply for a residence permit from abroad or must I be in Spain?
It depends. Some permits require applying from your home country (e.g., non-lucrative visa), while others can be filed directly from Spain under specific conditions. In our experience, many residence types (e.g., digital nomad, self-employed, high qualified worker, family of Spanish/EU citizens) can and should be filed directly in Spain.
Who can apply for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa?
Non-EU citizens who work remotely for companies or clients located outside Spain and who meet the minimum income and experience requirements (currently at least €31,752 per year and 3+ years experience).
Can I apply to the digital nomad visa already in Spain on a tourist visa?
Yes, as long as your legal stay hasn't expired and you meet the requirements, you can apply from within Spain.
What happens if my permit is denied?
You have the right to appeal or submit a new application. Our legal team can review the denial and guide you through the next steps.
Residence permits - Work and residency rights
Can I work with my permit?
It depends. Some permits (employment/self-employed/family of Spanish) allow work from day one, while others do not (e.g. non-lucrative, job search visa).
Can I switch permit types later?
Yes, many permits allow for modification (e.g. from student to work-based, or from arraigo to regular employment).
Can I switch from one residence permit to another while in Spain?
Yes, under certain conditions. For example, you may switch from a student visa to a work permit or from a digital nomad visa to a highly qualified professional permit. We assess your eligibility and manage the transition.
Can I travel while my residence permit is being processed?
Traveling is sometimes possible, but depends on your application type and whether you've received a favorable resolution. We advise based on your specific case.
Can I include family members in my application?
Yes. Many visa types allow for family reunification — including spouses, children, and sometimes dependent parents. Requirements vary depending on the permit.
What tax obligations apply if I live in Spain?
If you reside more than 183 days a year, you become a tax resident and must declare global income. Special regimes like the Beckham Law may apply.
Taxes - Tax residency in Spain
When do I officially become a tax resident in Spain?
You become a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in Spain in a calendar year, or if your main economic or family ties are here. Spain may presume residency if your spouse and minor children reside here. Even without a visa or official registration, your physical presence can trigger tax residency.
Do I have to pay taxes on income earned outside Spain?
Yes — if you're a Spanish tax resident, you must declare and pay tax on your worldwide income. This includes salaries, freelance income, pensions, dividends, rental income, and capital gains. However, tax treaties may reduce or eliminate double taxation.
What happens if I keep my tax residency in my home country?
Tax residency is based on facts and presence, not intention. If you meet the criteria for Spanish residency, you may be taxed here even if you continue filing elsewhere. We help resolve dual residency conflicts using the appropriate treaty.
Can I avoid double taxation?
In most cases, yes. Spain has 90+ double taxation treaties (DTAs). These treaties determine which country has taxing rights and how to apply exemptions or foreign tax credits. We analyze your case to ensure you only pay what's legally required — no more.
What if I move mid-year? Will I become a tax resident?
It depends. If you exceed 183 days, yes. If not, your situation will depend on economic ties and treaty rules. We can help you plan your move to minimize tax exposure and optimize timing.
How can I legally reduce my tax burden?
There are various legal mechanisms including double taxation treaties, deductible expenses, and optimal timing of relocation. We tailor advice based on your profile and goals.
When should I start planning my taxes after moving to Spain?
Ideally, before you arrive. Early planning helps avoid surprises, take advantage of tax treaties, and ensure you're meeting your obligations from day one.
Do I need a tax advisor in both Spain and my home country?
If you maintain income or obligations abroad, yes. We coordinate with your foreign advisors to optimize filings and ensure consistency.
What happens if I become a tax resident mid-year?
You'll likely have to file for the full year in Spain and may need to apportion your income. We'll assess your timeline and avoid double taxation through applicable treaties.
Can I deduct my relocation expenses in Spain?
Generally, no, unless you are an employee relocated by a company under specific circumstances. We'll let you know if your situation qualifies.