Extremadura Offers €15,000 Grants to Invite International Digital Nomads to Spain – Apply Right Now

As the digital nomad lifestyle becomes increasingly popular, many European regions have found themselves grappling with its implications. While some areas view digital nomads as a catalyst for gentrification and rising costs, Extremadura offers €15,000 grants to invite international digital nomads to Spain is taking a different approach.

In a bid to attract remote workers and bolster its economy, Extremadura is presenting notable financial incentives.

This guide provides an all-around overview of the grant, eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of relocating to this captivating Spanish region.

Why Extremadura is Extending €15,000 Grants

A Unique Opportunity for Digital Nomads

Digital nomads have often been seen as a double-edged sword: their arrival can boost local economies but also drive up costs and change the character of neighborhoods. In response to these challenges, some regions have restricted or discouraged the influx of remote workers. Regardless, Extremadura is bucking this trend by offering financial incentives to attract digital nomads. This initiative aims to revitalize the region, increase its population, and stimulate local economic growth.

A Region with Untapped Potential

Extremadura, located in southwestern Spain near the Portuguese border, is one of the country’s least visited areas. Despite its lower profile, the region boasts a wealth of natural beauty, including expansive nature reserves, picturesque mountain ranges, and a capital city with rich Roman history. The regional government is keen to leverage these assets by offering up to €15,000 in grants to digital nomads who relocate there. This financial support is designed to offset the initial costs of moving and settling in a new location.

Who is Eligible for Extremadura’s €15,000 Grants?

Target Audience: Highly Qualified Remote Workers

To qualify for the grant, applicants must meet specific criteria. Extremadura is primarily targeting highly qualified professionals in the tech industry who can work entirely remotely. Applicants must be capable of performing their jobs through digital means, including IT systems and telematics. This focus ensures that the region attracts individuals who can contribute to the local economy without disrupting its existing infrastructure.

Residency and Visa Requirements

The grant is open to individuals residing both within Spain and abroad, provided they have not lived in Extremadura in the past six months. Foreign nationals are also eligible, but they must meet additional requirements:

• EU Citizens: Must be legally residing in Spain and possess a foreign identity number (NIE).
• Non-EU Citizens: Must be participating in Spain’s digital nomad visa scheme or have it approved before applying for the Extremadura grant.

Commitment to Long-Term Residency

Applicants must commit to living and working in Extremadura for a minimum of two years. This requirement helps ensure that the financial aid contributes to long-term economic and demographic benefits for the region.

How Much Financial Support Can You Expect?

Grant Amounts and Conditions

The regional government has allocated €2 million to support the relocation of approximately 200 digital nomads. The grant amounts are structured to provide additional incentives for specific groups:

• €10,000 Grant: Available to women, individuals under 30 years old, and those moving to towns with fewer than 5,000 residents.
• €8,000 Grant: For other eligible applicants.

In addition to the initial grant, successful applicants who remain in Extremadura for an additional year will receive a further payment:

• €5,000 for those in the first category.
• €4,000 for others.

Cost of Living Benefits

One of the significant advantages of relocating to Extremadura is the lower cost of living compared to other Spanish regions. For example, living expenses in Badajoz, a city in Extremadura, are on average 30% lower than in Madrid. This affordability extends to dining, public transport, and utilities, making Extremadura an attractive destination for budget-conscious digital nomads.

Application Process: How to Apply for the Extremadura Grant

Application Timeline and Procedure

The application process for Extremadura’s grant will commence shortly after the scheme is published in the Official Gazette of Extremadura. While the exact date has not been confirmed, it is expected to be around mid-September. Applications will remain open until the allocated funds for 200 digital nomads are fully disbursed, which may take between one month and a year.

Required Documentation

To apply for the grant, you must submit your application electronically through the Extremadura General Electronic Access Point. Essential documents include:

• Proof of Residence: An official document verifying your current place of residence.
• Employment Certification: A certificate from your employer authorizing remote work in Extremadura, or if self-employed, documentation detailing your remote work conditions.

For those relocating from another Spanish region, additional documents are required:

• Social Security Report: Proof of up-to-date social security payments.
• Tax Certification: Evidence of being current with tax payments.
• Debt Certificate: Confirmation that you have no outstanding debts with the Treasury of Extremadura.

Non-Spanish documents must be accompanied by a sworn translation.

Outcome and Next Steps

Applicants will be notified of their success within three months. Those approved must register with a local municipality in Extremadura to obtain a padrón certificate. After this registration, you have one month to request the grant payment, which will be made in a single transaction.

Conclusion: A Golden Opportunity for Digital Nomads

Extremadura’s offer of €15,000 grants presents a compelling opportunity for international digital nomads looking to experience life in a unique and underappreciated part of Spain.

With its low cost of living, rich cultural heritage, and substantial financial support, Extremadura is positioning itself as a prime destination for remote workers seeking a new adventure. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready for a change, this could be your chance to relocate to a region that is eager to welcome and support you.

Applying for the Extremadura grant could be a life-changing decision, offering not only financial benefits but also the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of one of Spain’s hidden gems. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—apply right now and take the first step towards your new life in Extremadura.