When previous legal advice suggested it was impossible, we proved that extensive professional experience opens doors
The Challenge That Seemed Insurmountable
Sarah (first name changed to protect client confidentiality) had built an impressive career in banking management over more than a decade. Yet when she contacted us, this accomplished British professional was on the verge of abandoning her dream of relocating to Spain as a digital nomad.
Previous immigration attorneys had delivered what seemed like a crushing verdict: the digital nomad visa required either a higher education qualification or a minimum of three years of experience specifically in her current role. This misunderstanding of the law had left Sarah believing her dream of living and working remotely in Spain was out of reach.
The Breakthrough: Professional Experience Counts Across Roles
What those other lawyers failed to recognize—and what we immediately identified—is that Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa regulations allow for cumulative professional experience across different positions and companies. The three-year minimum experience requirement doesn’t have to be limited to one specific job or employer.
Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of Sarah’s professional background, meticulously documenting her career progression through various managerial positions across multiple financial institutions. We demonstrated that her extensive experience in the banking sector—an industry that highly values practical expertise over formal qualifications—more than satisfied the visa requirements.
Building the Perfect Case
Rather than focusing on what Sarah didn’t have, we strategically highlighted what she did possess:
- Over 10 years of progressive management experience across respected banking institutions
- Proven leadership capabilities in positions of significant responsibility
- Industry expertise in a sector where professional experience is often more valued than formal education
- A track record of remote work competency that aligned perfectly with digital nomad requirements
We prepared a detailed professional portfolio that showcased not just her years of experience, but the quality and progression of her roles, emphasizing how her expertise had been built through hands-on experience rather than classroom learning.
The Remarkable Result
Our meticulously prepared application was submitted to the Spanish Consulate in London with complete confidence. The result? Sarah’s Digital Nomad Visa was approved in just 10 days—with zero additional requirements or requests for further documentation.
This lightning-fast approval demonstrated that when a case is properly prepared and legally sound, Spanish immigration authorities recognize and appreciate genuine professional expertise, regardless of formal educational credentials.
Why This Case Matters
Sarah’s success story illustrates a crucial point for potential Digital Nomad Visa applicants: previous legal advice isn’t always accurate, and what seems impossible often isn’t. Many qualified professionals are being turned away by advisors who don’t fully understand the flexibility built into Spain’s immigration regulations.
The banking and financial services industry, in particular, has long recognized that practical experience and proven results often outweigh academic credentials. Spanish immigration authorities understand this too, which is why the visa regulations specifically accommodate professionals who have built their expertise through hands-on experience rather than formal education.
Key Takeaways for Prospective Applicants
- Don’t accept “impossible” as the final answer—immigration law often has more flexibility than initially apparent
- Professional experience can be cumulative across different roles and companies
- Industry context matters—sectors like banking, finance, and technology often value experience over formal qualifications
- Proper case preparation is everything—a well-documented application can achieve remarkably fast approval times
- The right legal representation makes the difference between rejection and success
Ready to explore your Digital Nomad Visa options? Contact Migratiolex today to discover how your professional experience—regardless of formal education—might be the key to your Spanish residency dreams. Don’t let previous negative advice stop you from pursuing the lifestyle you want.
At Migratiolex, we don’t just process applications—we find solutions where others see obstacles.