Can you work or freelance remotely on a non-lucrative visa?

Key rules

• Work in Spain: Neither you nor the family members who apply with you may work in Spain, as an employee or self-employed.
• Penalty: The employer is fined as well, and your permit can be revoked.
• Switching: To work legally, change to a digital nomad, work or self-employment permit, or use social arraigo if you qualify.

Can you work in Spain on this permit?

No. The permit exists so you can live in Spain on savings or passive income, without carrying out any work or professional activity. Employment and self-employment are both prohibited.

What about remote work for foreign clients?

Remote work for foreign clients is not authorised on this permit. If an office decides your activity counts as work, you face the penalties below.

If you want to work remotely for foreign companies, the proper route is the digital nomad permit. Holders who want to do this are usually advised to switch to it rather than carry on quietly.

What happens if you work without authorisation?

Working without the right authorisation is a serious infraction. Expect these consequences:

• A fine of 501 to 10,000 euros.
• Possible expulsion proceedings.
• Possible refusal to renew your permit, or its revocation.

How can you switch to a status that allows work?

You can apply to change your non-lucrative authorisation to one that allows work, once you have held the non-lucrative authorisation for 1 year. The usual routes are:

• Digital nomad permit. The usual choice if your clients or employer are outside Spain.
• Work or self-employment permit. This normally needs a job offer or a business plan, plus the required qualifications.
• Social arraigo. A route based on roots in Spain, available after two years of residence if you meet its requirements.