Digital Nomad Visa vs DAFT Self-Employed Permit

If you're choosing between these two, the question usually comes down to your citizenship and whether you want to work remotely or start a business. Spain's Digital Nomad Visa is open to anyone globally, while the DAFT permit is exclusively for US citizens. One funds remote work; the other requires you to invest in and operate a Dutch business.

1. 01

   Your citizenship

   Pick Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)

   Pick Spain if you're not a US citizen, as the Digital Nomad Visa accepts applicants from any country.

   Pick Dutch-American Friendship Treaty

   Pick Netherlands only if you hold a US passport, since DAFT is restricted to American citizens.

2. 02

   Work structure

   Pick Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)

   Pick Spain if you're a remote employee or freelancer working for non-Spanish companies from abroad.

   Pick Dutch-American Friendship Treaty

   Pick Netherlands if you want to start and operate your own Dutch business as self-employed founder.

3. 03

   Upfront investment

   Pick Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)

   Pick Spain if you want minimal costs; the visa costs only $80 USD to apply for.

   Pick Dutch-American Friendship Treaty

   Pick Netherlands if you can invest €4,500 in a business and the $1,700 application fee fits your budget.

4. 04

   Education requirements

   Pick Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)

   Pick Spain if you have a bachelor's degree and 3+ years of work experience.

   Pick Dutch-American Friendship Treaty

   Pick Netherlands if you have a high school diploma and no prior work experience requirement.

5. 05

   Visa validity

   Pick Ley de Startups (Art. 74-78)

   Pick Spain for a longer initial permit valid for 3 years before renewal.

   Pick Dutch-American Friendship Treaty

   Pick Netherlands if you prefer a shorter 2-year cycle and more frequent renewal checkpoints.