Last year Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa – it’s now the top destination for remote workers living abroad according to the Global Digital Nomad Report.
Article by Sophie Gatward-Wicks
Once again, Spain has come out on top! From our home municipality of Marbella being voted the European Best Destination 2024, to our greater city of Málaga being listed in the top 5 cities for second home buyers in the GetAgent study earlier this year. Then there are the 600 beaches across Spain that have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certificate this year, and not forgetting the Forbes Survey which came out late last year, crowning Málaga as World’s Best City to Live. All considered, it really comes as no surprise that the Digital Nomad Report has ranked Spain as the Nº1 destination for remote workers wishing to live and work abroad.
The Global Digital Nomad Report, produced by Global Citizen Solutions, is an in-depth analysis that ranks the best countries for digital nomads worldwide. This comprehensive study evaluated 65 countries to determine the best places for remote workers. 15 European countries emerged as leaders, with the top three being Spain, the Netherlands, and Norway.
The report evaluates countries based on various criteria, including cost of living, internet infrastructure, visa options and quality of life. It provides a comprehensive guide for remote workers looking to relocate, offering valuable insights into the most attractive destinations for a digital nomad lifestyle. With Spain ranked highly, it has further solidified its reputation as an ideal location to live and work. See the full report here.
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa
In 2023, Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa, enabling foreign nationals to live in Spain whilst working remotely for companies based abroad or as self-employed professionals. This visa is specifically tailored for those who rely on digital technology.
Remote work is here to stay, and millions of people are embracing the work-from-anywhere lifestyle. Some sources estimate that there will be around one billion digital nomads around the world by 2035. And thousands of those nomads may be headed to Spain.
In recent years, Spain has emerged as a prime destination for visitors and residents alike, offering the perfect blend of affordability, culture, and, particularly important for digital nomads: connectivity. Whether drawn to the vibrant tech hubs of Barcelona, Madrid and Málaga or the laid-back beauty of the charming hilltop villages and picturesque seaside towns, Spain caters to remote workers with diverse preferences.
One of the most crucial aspects for digital nomads is reliable internet, and Spain does not disappoint. With 96% of households connected to the internet and average speeds of 115 Mbps, this robust infrastructure supported by a range of coworking spaces, means that remote work in Spain is as smooth as it gets.
Spain is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to thrive
There are a myriad of other reasons as to why Spain is proving to be Europe’s most popular destination: The crime rates are low and people feel a type of safety here which is quite unique to the rest of the world. The lifestyle and culture fits every type of demographic, appealing to young people at the beginning of their careers, to those raising families and seniors in their retirement.
Spain’s healthcare system is one of the world’s best– visiting the doctor in Spain is free for almost everyone living and working in the country, and anyone on Spanish soil is entitled to immediate emergency care. In the last serious ranking of the world’s healthcare systems, carried out by the WHO, Spain was listed in overall seventh position.
Then there is the quality of food, with an outstanding gastronomic offering and the availability of fresh fruit and vegetables which only Italy could hold a candle to. The locals’ attitudes are welcoming and friendly, you can see this strongly reflected in the hospitality industry, with staff making it a priority to make you feel at home– always striving to communicate with you in your preferred language.
Spain also has the largest expat population in Europe. Today, it has approximately 6 million foreign residents, making the country a wonderful multicultural melting pot. Then there is the rich and ancient history and varied landscape in Spain which is a contributing element to people’s fascination with the country. The romantic castles, amazing cities, gorgeous beaches, mountain ranges and incredible nature. Do we need to mention the fiestas? There’s more than you could ever keep up with… It’s quite apparent that Spain is in a constant state of celebration– as life should be!
People take their time and enjoy life in Spain. Here the culture puts emphasis on a “work to live” mentality, not “live to work.” Above all else, the Spanish people value family and friendships, and there is a real joie de vivre to be experienced across every province, though we must say, particularly within our province of Andalucía.
For information on eligibility and requirements of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, visit the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs web page for the latest updates.
