The Beckham Law advantage
The biggest draw: Spain's Beckham Law allows digital nomad visa holders to be taxed as non-residents for up to 6 years. This means a flat 24% tax rate on income up to €600,000 (37% above that) instead of progressive rates up to 47%. You're only taxed on Spanish-source income, not worldwide income.
Autonomo registration
Self-employed workers must register as autónomo with the Spanish Social Security. Monthly contributions start at approximately €230/month under the new progressive system based on income. This gives you access to Spain's public healthcare system.
Planning your move to Spain?
Get a personalized tax breakdown based on your home country and income sources.
Social security implications
Spain has bilateral social security agreements with many countries. If you're from a treaty country, you may be able to avoid double contributions. EU citizens can use an A1 certificate to maintain home country social security for up to 2 years.
VAT (IVA) requirements
Freelancers in Spain must charge 21% IVA on services to Spanish/EU individual clients. Services to businesses outside Spain are generally reverse-charged (0% IVA). Quarterly IVA declarations (Modelo 303) are mandatory.
Modelo 720 asset declaration
If you hold assets (bank accounts, investments, property) outside Spain worth over €50,000 per category, you must file the Modelo 720 foreign asset declaration. Penalties for non-filing have been reduced but still apply.
Leaving Spain
Spain has exit tax provisions. If you've been a tax resident for more than 10 years and leave, unrealized capital gains on assets above €4 million may be taxed. Plan your departure carefully.