The dream of working remotely from Europe is no longer just a fantasy for many Pakistanis. With the growing trend of digital nomadism, more and more countries are offering visas that cater specifically to remote workers, freelancers, and online entrepreneurs. Among them, Spain has now stepped forward with an exciting and affordable opportunity — the Spain Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis, with an application cost starting at just Rs21,500.
For Pakistani freelancers, IT professionals, and remote workers seeking to explore Europe while earning in foreign currency, this visa could be a game-changer. Let’s dive into what it is, how it works, and why it’s gaining so much attention.
What is Spain Introducing Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500?
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is a newly introduced residency option that targets individuals working remotely for companies or clients outside of Spain. This visa allows non-EU citizens, including Pakistanis, to live in Spain while legally working online.
In a recent development, the Spanish government has simplified the application process for Pakistani citizens, offering the visa at an approximate cost of Rs21,500 (about €70–€80) — making it one of the most affordable pathways to live and work in Europe legally.
The visa is designed to attract skilled professionals from countries like Pakistan, where tech talent and remote working capabilities are growing rapidly. Spain’s goal is to bring in economic contributors without increasing job competition in the local market — hence the rule that you must be working remotely for foreign companies or clients.
Spain Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500
The Spain Digital Nomad Visa, introduced under the Startup Act, enables Pakistani remote workers to live in Spain for up to 1 year initially, with the option to renew and even apply for permanent residency after 5 years.
This initiative opens doors for:
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Freelancers working with international clients
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Employees working remotely for foreign companies
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Tech professionals, content creators, marketers, and developers
The Rs21,500 figure refers to the base government application fee, excluding additional costs like private health insurance, document translations, or proof of income. Still, the overall cost is considerably lower than traditional visa types or even digital nomad visas from other countries.
Features of Spain Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500 [Completely Detailing]
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Visa Name | Digital Nomad Visa (Under Spain’s Startup Act) |
Eligibility | Non-EU citizens (including Pakistanis) working remotely for foreign clients |
Application Fee | Approx. €70–€80 (~Rs21,500) |
Minimum Monthly Income | €2,334 (approx. Rs750,000/month) |
Duration of Visa | 1 year initially, renewable up to 5 years |
Work Rights in Spain | Remote work only for non-Spanish companies |
Physical Stay Requirement | Must stay in Spain for at least 183 days/year |
Tax Benefits | Reduced tax rate (15%) for 4 years under special regime |
Family Members | Can apply for dependents (spouse, children) |
Processing Time | Approx. 20–30 working days |
Healthcare Requirement | Must have valid private health insurance |
Proof of Qualification | 3+ years of experience or a university degree |
Pros of Spain Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500 [Use Table]
Pros | Details |
---|---|
Affordable Application Fee | At Rs21,500, it’s budget-friendly compared to other EU visa options |
Live in Spain Legally | Enjoy the Spanish lifestyle, culture, and climate while working remotely |
Travel Freedom | Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone |
Family Inclusion | Spouse and kids can also get residency with you |
Pathway to Residency | Can lead to long-term residency and even citizenship |
Tax Advantages | Lower income tax (15%) for the first 4 years if requirements are met |
Better Internet & Work Infrastructure | Access to co-working spaces, tech hubs, and strong internet connectivity |
Global Work Life Balance | Spain offers a relaxed, health-conscious lifestyle ideal for remote work |
Cons of Spain Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500 [Use Table]
Cons | Details |
---|---|
High Income Requirement | €2,334/month (~Rs750,000) may be hard to meet for some Pakistani freelancers |
Remote Work Only | You cannot work for Spanish companies or clients directly |
Documentation Needs | Requires translated, apostilled, and verified documents |
Private Health Insurance | Mandatory, and can be costly for families |
Spanish Bureaucracy | The process can be slow and complicated without legal help |
Short Initial Duration | Only 1-year visa; needs timely renewal and document submission |
Spain Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500 Alternatives [Use Table]
If the Spain Digital Nomad Visa doesn’t fit your budget or income level, here are some alternative countries that offer similar opportunities:
Country | Visa Name | Income Requirement | Application Fee | Work Rights |
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Portugal | D7 Passive Income Visa | €820/month | €90 | Remote work or passive income |
Estonia | Digital Nomad Visa | €3,504/month | €80 | Remote work for non-Estonian companies |
Greece | Digital Nomad Visa | €3,500/month | €75–€100 | Remote work only |
Hungary | White Card | €2,000/month | ~€110 | Remote work only |
Croatia | Digital Nomad Residence | €2,300/month | €60–€100 | Remote work only |
Spain Introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500
In conclusion, Spain’s introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at just Rs21,500 is a huge opportunity for professionals looking to live and work in Europe legally — without investing millions. Though the income requirement is on the higher side, the long-term benefits like travel freedom, lifestyle quality, residency path, and tax breaks make it worth considering.
If you’re a Pakistani freelancer, remote worker, or tech entrepreneur ear