I want to apply for a nomad visa in Spain next year. I have 1099 income and make pretty decent income. Currently I live in one of the most expensive cities in the us and just getting over the us. I travel to Europe at least twice a year and spent 6 weeks in France this summer so I love Europe. I know not all europe is the same but just giving some context. I am mexican American and speak fluent Spanish. My only concerns are taxes might be high, racism towards Latinos in Spain, and finding a nice rental. I am not really losing anything moving there I can always come back but moving international is just a bit scary.
Spain has one of the most punishing tax systems for freelancers, called Autonomos. Getting a rental is a nightmare of epic proportions and you won’t be accepted for the majority of rentals because you do not have an indefinite work contract. Landlords ask for an indefinite work contract and 3 months payslips as minimum. They need this so they can qualify for tenant non-payment insurance. They won’t get the insurance if they rent to a freelancer like you so you will have to take more expensive short term options. Also the countries that make up the EU are completely different. Living in Spain will not help if you want to move to UK or France later.