When people think about Spanish residency, they often assume it automatically means working for a Spanish employer. And that is generally true: many standard residence routes are designed around employment within a Spanish legal entity.

But if your goal is to live in Spain while continuing to work for a foreign company, there are a few specific exceptions worth knowing. The options are limited, but they do exist—and choosing the right status matters because it directly affects your work format and income model.

Below are two main scenarios that can allow this setup.

Digital Nomad Visa

This is the most straightforward option for remote work.

The key point is that this status is built around working for clients or an employer outside Spain. In other words, you don’t just “have permission” to work for a foreign company—your case is expected to be based on it.

Under the rules described for this residence route:

• your employer must be outside Spain;
• income from Spanish companies is possible, but it must not exceed 20% of your total income.

Who it typically fits

This route is commonly considered by:

• remote employees,
• freelancers,
• entrepreneurs with foreign clients.

Its purpose is exactly that: legal residence in Spain while your work and main income remain international.

Intra-company transfer (corporate transfer)

The second option is less obvious, but equally important for certain professionals.

This is relevant when an international company transfers an employee to Spain within its corporate structure.

In practice, this can look like:

• you remain employed by the company in your home country;
• your salary is paid outside Spain;
• you are based in the Spanish office for work, knowledge transfer, or project development.

Formally, you are not switching to a Spanish employer—you continue working under a foreign legal entity as part of a corporate transfer.

Final takeaway

If your goal is to live in Spain and work for a foreign company, the number of realistic options is limited, but they exist:

• Digital Nomad Visa
• Intra-company transfer

Most other residence routes typically tie you to a Spanish employer, so your residence choice is not a formality—it’s a strategic decision that shapes your work format and flexibility.

About Docsinside

If you’re not sure which status fits your work model, Docsinside can help you clarify the right route and keep the process structured. Docsinside is an online platform that guides you step by step and helps you prepare your documents in one secure place, with checklists, templates, and a personal account for uploads. To discuss your situation, email us at hello@docsinside.com.