Working Remotely from Santander
Whether you’ve always wanted to travel, or new company policies have given you greater flexibility, now might be your chance to switch up locations and work remotely from abroad.
Benefits of Working Remotely From Abroad
Moving abroad while working remotely gives you the chance to:
- Travel to other nearby countries
- Experience a new culture
- Try different cuisines
- Learn a new language
- Meet new people including other expats
- Switch up your daily routine
With many employers allowing their staff to work from home, it may be time for you to take advantage of these perks.
Weather you are a digital nomad, or looking for a opportunty for you and your family to experience living a different place for a few months, working remotly is a great opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds!
If you’ve been working from home for months (or years), you might be asking yourself, is it a good time to move abroad? Whether you’ve always wanted to travel, or new company policies have given you greater flexibility, now might be your chance to switch up locations and work remotely from abroad.
The “Digital Nomad” Visa
The Spanish government has just announced plans for a ‘digital nomad’ visa which would let foreign remote workers live and work in the country for up to a year.
Spain’s new scheme is specifically targeted at freelancers, people who are fully employed but work remotely, and those who make at least 80 percent of their income from companies outside of Spain.
The draft law states that foreign nationals will be able to work remotely for non-Spanish companies while living in Spain without a full work visa for between six and 12 months. It could then be extended up to two times.
The new Spanish law is part of the country’s recent Startup Act. It’s been on the cards since the start of 2022, but was finally approved in November and looks set to finally become law in January 2023.
Most digital nomad visas come with minimum income requirements, and Spain is no different. The level hasn’t been set yet, but it’s likely to be at least €2,000 (£1,725 or $2,110) per month.
According to Global Citizen Solutions, Spain’s digital nomad visa will initially be valid for up to a year. You could then extend your stay by applying for a temporary residency permit, which can be renewed up to five years. At that point, you can apply for permanent residency.
Of course, if you’re already a citizen of an EU member state, none of this is important. You can already live and work in Spain as much as you please.
Living and Working in Santander
Santander is a great option for working remotely. It has the perfect size for getting to know quickly every part of town. No car is needed, public transport is great, and most areas are walking distance from your home. Did we mention great beaches and parks, mountains and an amazing coastline to enjoy in your free time? Fantastic food markets, wine bars and restaurants to enjoy the best of Spanish cuisine? Work cafes, business centres?
Spain has a great geographical location and is strategically well located for workers. If for any reason you need to travel, Spain’s high speed train network will get you across the county in no time, and with direct flights to almost anywhere in the world from the country’s main airports you’ll be where you need to be in no time. Direct flights to many countries are offered from Santander and Bilbao airports.
If you are working for a company, please see our Corporate Housing section. If you are a freelance worker, do not hesitate to contact us, we wil be happy to advise and offer you the best place for your stay!