DNV vs Cuenta Propia: which Spanish visa is right for you?
Both let you work in Spain, but the Digital Nomad Visa is for remote work for foreign companies, while the Self-Employed (Cuenta Propia) permit is for running your own business serving Spanish clients.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Digital Nomad Visa (International Teleworker) (DNV) | Self-Employed Residence and Work Authorisation (Cuenta Propia) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Remote workers and freelancers working for non-Spanish clients or employers from Spain. | Non-EU nationals starting a freelance activity or business under the general self-employment regime. |
| Government cost | ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038) | ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€201 (790-062) |
| Processing time | ~20 working days (UGE) | ~1-3 months |
| Length of stay | 3 years (UGE) or 1 year (consulate), renewable | Up to 1 year initial, renewals up to 4 years |
| Where to apply | Online to UGE in Spain (3 yrs) or at a consulate abroad (1 yr) | At a Spanish consulate, or in Spain when permitted |
| Work rights | Remote work for non-Spanish companies (max 20% Spanish clients) | Self-employed/autónomo activity stated in the plan |
| Pathway to PR | Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence; possible 24% Beckham-style tax option. | After 5 years of legal residence apply for long-term residence. |
Which is right for you?
Digital Nomad Visa (International Teleworker) (DNV)
Remote workers and freelancers working for non-Spanish clients or employers from Spain.
Full DNV guide →Self-Employed Residence and Work Authorisation (Cuenta Propia)
Non-EU nationals starting a freelance activity or business under the general self-employment regime.
Full Cuenta Propia guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, DNV or Cuenta Propia?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Digital Nomad Visa (International Teleworker) (DNV) is the lowest at ~€80 visa + authorisation tasa ~€75 (790-038). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, DNV or Cuenta Propia?
Indicatively Self-Employed Residence and Work Authorisation (Cuenta Propia) is the quickest at ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between DNV and Cuenta Propia?
Digital Nomad Visa (International Teleworker) (DNV) is for remote workers and freelancers working for non-Spanish clients or employers from Spain. Self-Employed Residence and Work Authorisation (Cuenta Propia) is for non-EU nationals starting a freelance activity or business under the general self-employment regime.