Digital Nomad Visa: How Beckham's Law Benefits Remote Work
Beckham’s Law for Digital Nomad Visa holders and Remote Workers in Spain
If you’re a remote worker or digital nomad considering a move to Spain, it’s essential to understand how Beckham’s Law and the Digital Nomad Visa can work together. Beckham’s Law is a special tax regime that offers significant income tax savings, making it a sought-after option for digital nomads.
Combined with the Digital Nomad Visa, this framework provides an attractive solution for expats looking to enjoy the perks of working remotely in Spain’s sun-soaked, culturally rich environment.
This post will explain what the Beckham Law is, how digital nomads can qualify for it, and the steps to take to benefit from this unique tax opportunity.
What is the Beckham Law?
The Beckham Law, officially known as the special expat tax regime in Spain, attracts foreign talent by offering a flat income tax rate of 24% for earnings up to €600,000 per year (or 47% for earnings exceeding that threshold).
Introduced in 2005 and named after footballer David Beckham—who reportedly used this regime when relocating to Real Madrid—the law helps make Spain a competitive destination for professionals and businesses.
Historically, it targeted international executives or directors with limited company shares. Now, with evolving workspaces, remote workers and digital nomads can also qualify.
Key Benefits
Flat Tax Rate: 24% up to €600,000 (vs. progressive rates up to 47%).
No Global Income Tax: You’re taxed only on Spanish-sourced income.
Ideal for High Earners: Great savings potential compared to standard tax brackets.
How Digital Nomads Now Qualify
Until 2023, eligibility was limited. Thanks to Spain’s 2023 Startup Law, remote workers and digital nomads now qualify for Beckham’s Law if they meet certain conditions.
What Changed?
Eligibility
Digital nomads working remotely for non-Spanish companies can now apply.Relocation Requirements Simplified
You don’t need a Spanish employer—working remotely from Spain is enough.Application Process Updated
Forms now reflect these changes, but documentation and eligibility verification are still essential.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
New Tax Residency: You must not have been a Spanish tax resident in the last 5 years.
Remote Work: Must work for a non-Spanish company. You can earn up to 20% from Spanish clients if freelance, but not be employed by a Spanish company.
Employer Documents: You’ll need your employer’s certificate of incorporation, apostilled and sworn translated—no older than 3 months.
Application Timing: Apply within 6 months of becoming a Spanish tax resident.
Steps to Apply
Move to Spain
Obtain a Digital Nomad Visa or similar residence permit.Check Eligibility
Work with a tax advisor to verify your status.Submit Application to Hacienda
Include your NIE, employment/freelance contracts, and supporting documentation.Start Filing Taxes Under Beckham’s Law
Once approved, enjoy a flat 24% tax rate for up to 6 years.
Why This Matters
Spain is positioning itself as a hub for remote professionals. By combining the Digital Nomad Visa with Beckham’s Law, the country offers both legal residency and major tax advantages.
Together with Spain’s affordable lifestyle, strong infrastructure, and Mediterranean climate, this makes relocation more attractive than ever.
Example of Savings
Let’s say you earn €120,000/year.
Standard Tax: ~€40,000+
Beckham Law: €28,800
→ You save over €11,000/year.
Final Thoughts
The Beckham Law and Digital Nomad Visa are a powerful combo for remote professionals. Now that eligibility has been expanded, you no longer need to be employed by a Spanish company—remote work counts.
Haven’t been a Spanish tax resident in the past 5 years?
Working for a foreign company?
Want to pay 24% instead of up to 47%?
Then you might qualify!
Get in touch with Groovy Relocation to connect with trusted tax advisors and make sure your application is done right.
