Stay & Documentation in Spain
Official regulatory frameworks for junior athletes and relocating families.
Estancia por Estudios (Student Stay)
Authorization for full-time studies at an accredited teaching or scientific institution in Spain (higher education or post-compulsory secondary education / Bachillerato). Sports training centers alone do not qualify under this framework.
Movilidad de Alumnos (Student Mobility & Minors)
Regulates minors enrolled in secondary education programmes without family relocation. Requires parental consent and designation of an adult taking responsibility for the child in Spain during the stay (factual custodianship, not judicial guardianship).
Non-Lucrative Residence (Residencia No Lucrativa)
Common route for families relocating with children without taking local Spanish employment, based on demonstrated financial independence.
Teletrabajo de carácter internacional (Digital Nomad Visa)
For families where one parent works remotely for an employer or clients outside Spain. The player and spouse obtain permits as dependent family members. Key criteria: employment or contractual relationship with the foreign employer for at least 3 months (and company operating for at least 1 year); for freelancers, work for Spanish clients capped at 20%; higher education degree or at least 3 years of professional experience; applicant income of not less than 200% of Spain's minimum wage (SMI), plus 75% SMI for the first dependent and 25% SMI for each additional dependent. In 2026, the SMI is 1,221 €/month (14 payments); verify exact requirement thresholds directly with the consulate. The visa is issued for up to 1 year; when applied directly from within Spain, residence authorization is granted for up to 3 years. Unlike Residencia No Lucrativa, it permits the parent to maintain active remote work. Not applicable if the player relocates without parents.
Which route for which scenario
| Scenario | Feasible routes |
|---|---|
| Player relocates solo | Movilidad de alumnos; Estancia por estudios (Bachillerato) |
| Family relocation, parents not working in Spain | Residencia No Lucrativa |
| Family relocation, parent works remotely | Teletrabajo de carácter internacional |
The optimal legal path is determined individually based on citizenship and age in coordination with partner immigration specialists.