Remote work has unlocked a new way of living: the freedom to choose where you work from. And when it comes to finding the perfect balance between productivity and lifestyle, Spain and Portugal are quickly becoming two of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads and remote workers in Europe.
At Knowmad Tribe, we specialize in creating tailored remote work and travel packages in Spain and Portugal. Whether you’re planning a 1 to 3-month stay or just curious about the digital nomad lifestyle in Europe, this guide covers everything you need to know.
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1. Why Work Remotely in Spain and Portugal?
Both countries offer the perfect blend of infrastructure, lifestyle, and affordability. Here’s why they’re becoming top destinations for remote workers in Europe:
Climate: Over 300 days of sunshine in many regions.
Location: Just a short flight from most European cities, with strong transatlantic connections.
Affordability: More budget-friendly than Northern Europe or the U.S., while maintaining high quality of life.
Culture & Food: Rich traditions, vibrant social life, and world-class cuisine.
Community: Growing digital nomad communities in both big cities and rural areas.
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2. Digital Nomad Visas in Spain and Portugal
One of the biggest questions remote workers have is: How can I legally stay long-term? Both countries now offer options:
Spain – Digital Nomad Visa (2023)
Specifically designed for remote workers and freelancers.
Allows you to stay up to 5 years.
Ideal for non-EU citizens, especially from the U.S. and Latin America.
Portugal – Digital Nomad Visa (2022)
Valid for up to one year, renewable.
Designed for remote employees and freelancers with steady income.
Alternative: D7 Visa, popular among entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Tip: Always check requirements with your local consulate, as processing times and documents may vary.
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3. Best Places to Work Remotely in Spain and Portugal
Digital Nomad Cities
-Barcelona & Madrid (Spain): Vibrant coworking spaces, great connectivity, and a strong international community.
-Lisbon (Portugal): One of the most famous digital nomad hubs in Europe, with meetups, events, and a startup ecosystem.
Surf & Coastal Towns
-Ericeira & Lagos (Portugal): Known for surf culture and relaxed coliving spaces.
-Canary Islands (Spain): Year-round sunshine, affordable living, and coworking-friendly colivings.
Rural Retreats for Remote Workers
-Galicia (Spain): Peaceful villages, green landscapes, and growing rural coliving initiatives.
-Alentejo (Portugal): A hidden gem with slow living, wine culture, and tranquil work environments.
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4. Internet and Coworking Infrastructure
-Wi-Fi: Reliable in most cities and tourist towns. Many colivings in Spain and Portugal now provide fiber-optic internet.
-Coworking spaces: Abundant in Lisbon, Madrid, Barcelona, and Porto — with new spaces opening in smaller towns.
-Knowmad Tribe “Remote Ready Seal”: We certify accommodations with strong Wi-Fi, ergonomic setups, and quiet workspaces.
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5. Cost of Living in Spain and Portugal for Remote Workers
Accommodation: €600–€1,200/month for colivings or private rentals.
Food: €10–€15 for a lunch menu; eating out is affordable compared to Northern Europe.
Transport: Efficient trains and buses; affordable domestic flights. A rental car is useful for rural stays.
Lifestyle: Free cultural events, vibrant nightlife, hiking, surfing, and cycling opportunities.
Compared to other digital nomad destinations in Europe like Berlin or Amsterdam, Iberia is significantly more affordable.
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6. Community and Networking for Digital Nomads
Remote work doesn’t have to be lonely. Spain and Portugal have thriving digital nomad communities:
-Meetups: Lisbon Digital Nomads Meetup, Barcelona Remote Work groups.
-Coliving spaces: A growing trend in rural and coastal areas.
-Knowmad Tribe Programs: 1 to 3 month curated experiences combining community, culture, and productivity.
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7. Practical Tips for Remote Work in Spain and Portugal
SIM Cards: Affordable and easy to purchase at airports or local shops.
Time Zones: Spain (CET) and Portugal (WET) align well with U.S. East Coast and Europe.
Language: English is widely spoken in Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, and Barcelona. In rural areas, Spanish or Portuguese will help.
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Conclusion
Spain and Portugal are more than travel destinations — they are becoming the best places to work remotely in Europe. With the right visa, accommodation, and community, you can combine productivity with unforgettable experiences.
At Knowmad Tribe, we make it easy with curated packages for remote workers: verified colivings, coworking spaces, cultural immersion, and all the logistics sorted.
Ready to start your journey as a digital nomad in Spain or Portugal? Contact us today and let’s design your perfect experience.
