Globalisation, advancements in technology, and expansion of remote work (especially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic) have contributed to the birth of a new type of professional: the digital nomad. For many people, this concept is more than just a new way of working —it is a true philosophy of life. And to put it into practice, a computer and a good Internet connection is all that is needed.
But what exactly is a digital nomad?
Digital nomads are professionals who use information and communication technologies (ICT) to work remotely. This allows them to travel around the world and change their place of residence frequently. It can be said that digital nomads leverage global connectivity, technological innovation, and labour flexibility to lead a more free lifestyle, since they do not need to go every day to a specific workplace, nor be physically in an office or at a place designated by their employers.
Digital nomads are engaged in a wide variety of activities. They are usually programmers, web content creators, graphic designers, translators, etc. Obviously, the main requirement is that they are able to perform their job tasks online, through the Internet, and therefore not all careers can fit into this category.
Most digital nomads are self-employed, but some can be part of large companies’ workforce and receive a fixed income.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a digital nomad?
Although conventional labour relations offer stability and a large number of benefits, they also present some drawbacks, such as lack of autonomy and working-hour flexibility, excessive organisational hierarchy and bureaucracy, stagnation, employees’ demotivation, etc.
Instead, digital nomads embrace the freedom to work from virtually any location with internet access. They can distribute their time based on their needs and preferences and, by not needing a physical office, they also reduce the costs related to rentals and infrastructure. They have the possibility of leading a more balanced lifestyle, as it is easier for them to combine work with recreational and leisure activities. And the in situ knowledge of different countries help them to enrich their worldview and enjoy varied cultural experiences.
On the other hand, some of the key challenges faced by digital nomads include: efficient time management, finding an appropriate workspace, and the difficulty of maintaining both a good work productivity and a stable income stream. They also have to deal with the legal and tax implications of living in different countries.
Are there any legal regulations in Spain that govern the concept of digital nomad?
Yes. Specific references to these remote workers are already included in the so-called “Startup Law”, passed in December 2022. This law also approved the granting of new visas and residence permits to facilitate digital nomads their entry and stay in Spain. This initiative is intended to attract talent, capital, and highly qualified professionals to our country.
The main requirements to obtain these residence permits are:
- Be a graduate or postgraduate from universities, professional training centres, and/or business schools of renowned prestige, or have a minimum of three years of professional experience.
- Prove that their professional activity can be performed remotely.
- Have no criminal record in Spain.
Obviously, this new regulation for digital nomads applies to professionals from non-European countries, since UE citizens are already beneficiaries of the rights of free movement and residence within the European Union.
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