Move to Spain from United States
Learn all you need to do to make your Spanish dream come true.
Contact us
To request a free consultation case, please provide us with your contact details below and we will contact you via email or phone.
How to move to Spain from US?
What is the process?
Relocating from the United States to Spain involves several key steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you:
1. Determine the Appropriate Visa:
- Non-Lucrative Visa: Ideal for individuals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in employment. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves.
- Work Visa: For those who have secured employment in Spain. The employer typically initiates the application process.
- Student Visa: Suitable for individuals enrolled in educational programs in Spain.
- Golden Visa: Available to those investing a significant amount in Spanish real estate or businesses.
2. Prepare Necessary Documentation:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your U.S. passport is current and will remain valid throughout your stay.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the appropriate form for your chosen visa category.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements or other documents demonstrating sufficient funds.
- Health Insurance: Obtain comprehensive private health insurance valid in Spain.
- Background Check: Secure a police clearance certificate from U.S. authorities.
- Medical Certificate: A statement from a medical professional confirming good health.
3. Submit Your Visa Application:
- Apply through the Spanish Consulate General that has jurisdiction over your U.S. residence. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
4. Plan Your Move:
- Housing: Research and secure accommodation in Spain.
- Shipping Belongings: Arrange for the transportation of personal items, considering customs regulations.
- Financial Arrangements: Open a Spanish bank account to manage finances locally.
5. Upon Arrival in Spain:
- Register with Local Authorities: Within 30 days, register at the local town hall (Empadronamiento) to obtain a certificate of residence.
- Apply for Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): This card serves as your official identification in Spain.
- Tax Identification Number (NIE): Essential for financial and legal transactions.
6. Understand Tax Obligations:
- As a resident, you’ll be subject to Spanish tax laws. Spain and the U.S. have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation, but it’s prudent to consult with a tax professional familiar with both systems.
7. Integrate into Spanish Life:
- Language: Learning Spanish will enhance your experience and integration.
- Healthcare: Familiarize yourself with Spain’s healthcare system and register accordingly.
- Community Engagement: Participate in local events and networks to build connections.
Embarking on this journey requires careful planning and adherence to legal requirements. Consulting with immigration experts or legal professionals can provide personalized guidance tailored to your situation.
Types of Spanish Visas
Spain offers various visa types tailored to different purposes and durations of stay. Here’s an overview:
1. Short-Stay Visas (Schengen Visas):
- Tourist Visa: Allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period for leisure travel within Spain and the Schengen Area. U.S. citizens can enter Spain for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days.
- Business Visa: For attending conferences, meetings, or business-related activities without employment in Spain, also limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Spain en route to another destination outside the Schengen Zone.
2. Long-Stay Visas (National Visas):
- Work Visa: Required for individuals employed by a Spanish company or those planning to be self-employed. Applicants need a job offer and a work permit from a Spanish employer or, for self-employment, a viable business plan and proof of sufficient funds. Application fees range from €60 to €80 (approximately $65 to $87).
- Student Visa: For those enrolled in educational or research programs exceeding 90 days. Applicants must provide proof of enrollment, financial means (typically around €600 per month, approximately $650), and health insurance. Part-time work (up to 20 hours per week) is permitted. Processing fees range from €60 to €120 (approximately $65 to $130).
- Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): For individuals wishing to reside in Spain without engaging in professional activities. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means, typically around €28,800 annually (approximately $31,500) for the primary applicant, plus an additional €7,200 per year (approximately $7,900) for each dependent, coming from passive sources like pension, annuity or investments. Private health insurance is required.
- Golden Visa: For investors making significant financial investments in Spain, such as real estate purchases of at least €500,000 (approximately $547,000). Other options include investing €1 million (approximately $1.09 million) in Spanish businesses or €2 million (approximately $2.18 million) in Spanish government bonds. This visa offers residency to investors and their immediate family members.
UPDATE: Spanish goverment have said that the option for real estate will end by 31st of December, 2024. - Family Reunification Visa: For family members of legal residents or citizens of Spain seeking to join them. Applicants must prove sufficient financial means to support their family members, with specific income requirements depending on family size.
- Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies, allowing residence while working remotely. Applicants must demonstrate income of at least €2,000 to €3,000 per month (approximately $2,180 to $3,270) from their foreign employer or clients, and private health insurance is required.
3. Specialized Visas:
- Entrepreneur Visa: For individuals planning to start innovative businesses in Spain. Applicants need to present a comprehensive business plan and evidence of adequate financial resources to sustain the business.
- Au Pair Visa: For young individuals participating in cultural exchange by living with a Spanish family and assisting with childcare. Requires a host family arrangement in Spain and a basic understanding of Spanish.
- Working Holiday Visa: For young adults from certain countries, allowing limited work and travel in Spain. Typically available to individuals aged 18-30 or 18-35, depending on the applicant’s nationality.
Each visa type has specific requirements and application procedures. It’s essential to choose the one that aligns with your intended activities and duration of stay in Spain.
What documents do you need?
As an American planning to move to Spain, you’ll need to prepare several key documents to facilitate your relocation:
Valid Passport: Ensure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Spain.
Appropriate Visa: Depending on your purpose and duration of stay, you may need one of the following visas:
- Non-Lucrative Visa: For those intending to reside in Spain without engaging in any professional activities.
- Work Visa: If you have secured employment with a Spanish company.
- Student Visa: For individuals enrolled in educational programs exceeding 90 days.
- Golden Visa: For significant investors, such as those purchasing property worth €500,000 or more.
Proof of Financial Means: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. For instance, the Non-Lucrative Visa requires proof of an annual income of at least €28,800 (approximately $31,500) for the primary applicant, plus an additional €7,200 (approximately $7,900) per dependent.
Health Insurance: Obtain comprehensive private health insurance valid in Spain, covering all medical expenses without co-payments.
Background Check: Provide a police clearance certificate from the FBI or your state of residence, issued within the last three months, indicating no criminal record.
Medical Certificate: A document from a licensed physician stating you are free from any diseases that could pose a public health risk, typically issued within the last three months.
Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will reside in Spain, such as a rental agreement or property deed.
Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the appropriate national visa application form.
Passport-Sized Photographs: Usually two recent color photos with a white background.
Please note that specific requirements may vary based on the type of visa and individual circumstances. It’s advisable to consult the Spanish Consulate General’s website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What is the cost of living in Spain?
The cost of living in Spain is generally lower than in the United States, around 30% lower, with significant savings in housing, groceries, and healthcare. Here’s a comparative overview:
Overall Cost of Living:
- Spain: The average monthly cost of living is approximately €1,480 (about $1,600).
- United States: The average monthly cost is around $2,454.
Housing:
- Rent Prices: In the U.S., rent prices are about 83% higher than in Spain.
- Example: In most parts of Spain, a one-bedroom apartment in a city center costs around €700 ($760), compared to $1,200 in the U.S.
- Barcelona and Madrid: In major cities like Barcelona and Madrid, housing costs are significantly higher than the Spanish average. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center often starts at around €1,000 ($1,090) per month due to high demand, making these cities around 30-40% more expensive for housing than other areas in Spain.
Utilities:
- Spain: Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) average around €120 ($130).
- United States: Similar utilities average about $160 per month.
Groceries:
- Spain: Grocery prices are approximately 58.6% lower than in the U.S.
- Example: A liter of milk costs about €1.14 ($1.24) in Spain, compared to around $1.08 in the U.S.
Dining Out:
- Spain: Restaurant prices are about 46.9% lower than in the U.S.
- Example: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €12 ($13) in Spain, compared to $20 in the U.S.
Transportation:
- Spain: Public transportation is affordable, with a monthly pass costing around €36 ($39).
- United States: A monthly public transport pass averages around $70.
Healthcare:
- Spain: Offers a robust public healthcare system with low out-of-pocket costs.
- United States: Healthcare expenses are significantly higher, often requiring comprehensive private insurance.
Internet:
- Spain: A monthly internet plan (60 Mbps or more) costs around €33.20 ($36).
- United States: Similar plans average around $66.10 per month.
In summary, Spain offers a notably lower cost of living compared to the U.S., particularly in housing, dining, and transportation. However, living in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid comes with higher housing expenses, making Spain an attractive yet diverse option for affordability across different regions.
What taxes will you pay?
If you’re moving to Spain on a long-stay visa, your tax obligations will depend on your residency status, income sources, and specific visa type. Here’s a breakdown of the main taxes to expect:
1. Tax Residency Status
- Tax Resident: If you reside in Spain for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you become a tax resident and are subject to Spanish taxes on your worldwide income.
- Non-Tax Resident: If you spend fewer than 183 days in Spain, you’re generally considered a non-resident and are taxed only on income earned within Spain.
2. Taxes for Tax Residents
Income Tax (Impuesto sobre la Renta de las Personas Físicas, IRPF): As a tax resident, you’ll pay income tax on global income, including earnings, pensions, rental income, and investments.
- Progressive Tax Rates:
- Income up to €12,450: 19%
- €12,451 to €20,200: 24%
- €20,201 to €35,200: 30%
- €35,201 to €60,000: 37%
- €60,001 to €300,000: 45%
- Over €300,000: 47%
- Progressive Tax Rates:
Capital Gains Tax: Capital gains, such as profits from selling property or investments, are taxed at progressive rates:
- Up to €6,000: 19%
- €6,001 to €50,000: 21%
- €50,001 to €200,000: 23%
- Over €200,000: 26%
Wealth Tax (Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio): Tax residents with assets over certain thresholds are subject to a wealth tax, calculated on worldwide assets. Regional exemptions vary, but the national minimum threshold is €700,000, plus €300,000 for your primary residence. Tax rates range from 0.2% to 3.5%, depending on the value of assets.
Social Security Contributions: If you work or are self-employed in Spain, you must pay social security contributions, which provide access to Spain’s public healthcare, pensions, and other benefits.
- Employee Contributions: Typically around 6.35% of salary, with employers paying approximately 29.9%.
- Self-Employed Contributions: Self-employed residents (autónomos) pay around €300–€400 monthly, depending on income levels.
Other Taxes:
- Property Tax (IBI): If you own property, you’ll pay an annual property tax based on the cadastral value, set by the local municipality.
- VAT (IVA): Spain has a value-added tax on goods and services, typically 21% for most items, with lower rates of 10% and 4% for essentials.
3. Taxes for Non-Residents
Non-Resident Income Tax (NRIT): Non-residents pay tax only on income earned in Spain, such as rental income or profits from property sales.
- Rental Income: 19% for EU/EEA residents, 24% for non-EU residents.
- Capital Gains: Flat rate of 19% for EU/EEA citizens and 24% for non-EU residents on capital gains from Spanish property sales.
Non-Resident Property Tax: Non-resident property owners are subject to an additional annual tax, calculated as 1.1%–2% of the cadastral value of the property.
4. Special Tax Regimes for Long-Stay Visa Holders
- Beckham Law (Impatriate Tax Regime): If you move to Spain for work and qualify, the Beckham Law offers a flat 24% tax on Spanish income up to €600,000, with exemption from taxes on foreign income for up to six years. This regime is often available to foreign employees or business owners relocating to Spain.
5. Tax Filing Obligations
- Annual Tax Return: Tax residents file an annual tax return (Modelo 100) reporting worldwide income, capital gains, and deductions.
- Declaration of Foreign Assets: Spanish residents with over €50,000 in foreign assets must file Modelo 720 annually, listing bank accounts, securities, and property abroad.
- Property Taxes: Both residents and non-residents must file for property taxes if they own property in Spain.
Your tax liability will depend on your residency status, income sources, and deductions available under Spanish law. Consulting a tax advisor familiar with Spanish and international taxation can be beneficial, especially if you have complex income sources or foreign assets.
In conclusion, moving to Spain is not an easy task, either doing it alone or with family.
If you’re ready to start your journey in Spain or have any questions about the Spanish visas, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of lawyers is ready to assist you and provide the legal support you need to succeed.
How can a lawyer help me with moving to Spain?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Understanding the eligibility requirements
A lawyer can help you understand the eligibility requirements, including the criteria you need to meet and the documents you need to submit.
Preparing your application
A lawyer can assist you in preparing your application, ensuring that all the required documents are included and that your application is complete.
Addressing potential issues
If there are any potential issues with your application, such as gaps in your employment history or criminal convictions, a lawyer can help you address these issues and present your case in the best possible light.
Representing you in appeals
If your application is denied, a lawyer can represent you in any appeals process and help you to overcome the reasons for denial.
Providing ongoing support
A lawyer can provide ongoing support throughout the application process, answering any questions you may have and keeping you updated on the status of your application.
If you are interested in moving to Spain, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Spain a reality.
Life
Work
Voices of Satisfaction
Quality Life for You and Your Family
Why Spain?
Obtaining a Stay visa in Spain offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides legal permission to live and work in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to Spain’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, the visa allows digital nomads to immerse themselves in the warmth of Spanish hospitality, savor its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
- Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Spanish culture.
- Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
- Stable economy
Spain has a stable and growing economy
- Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Spanish food and wine.
- Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
- Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
- Skilled workforce
Spain has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce
- Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What visa do I need to move to Spain from the U.S.?
The visa you’ll need depends on the purpose and length of your stay. Common options include the Non-Lucrative Visa for retirees or individuals with independent income, a Work Visa for those with a job offer in Spain, a Student Visa for long-term study, and the Golden Visa for investors who make significant financial investments in Spain, such as real estate.
How long does the visa process take?
The processing time varies by visa type and can range from a few weeks to several months. It’s advisable to start the process well in advance, as it may involve collecting various documents and waiting for consulate approval.
Can I work in Spain as an American?
Yes, but you’ll need a Work Visa to legally work for a Spanish employer. Remote workers employed by companies outside of Spain may consider the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows them to live in Spain while working remotely. Some visas, like the Non-Lucrative Visa, will not allow you to work.
Is health insurance required for moving to Spain?
Yes, non-residents are generally required to have private health insurance that covers all medical expenses in Spain. Some visas, such as the Non-Lucrative Visa, specify that the insurance should cover any medical needs without co-payments.
Can I bring my family with me to Spain?
Yes, family members can typically accompany you on a family reunification basis, though specific visa types may have different requirements. For example, the Non-Lucrative Visa allows dependents, but you’ll need to show sufficient financial means to support each family member.
Do I need a residence permit once in Spain?
Yes, after arriving in Spain, long-stay visa holders must apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office. This permit, or TIE (Foreigner Identity Card), serves as your official ID in Spain.
Will I have to pay taxes in Spain?
If you become a tax resident (living in Spain for more than 183 days per year), you’ll be subject to Spanish taxes on your worldwide income. Spain has a tax treaty with the U.S. to avoid double taxation, but it’s essential to understand how taxes will impact your finances.
How can I find housing in Spain?
You can find housing through online rental platforms, real estate agents, or by visiting neighborhoods in person. In popular cities like Madrid and Barcelona, demand for rental properties is high, so it’s best to start your search early.
Is it necessary to learn Spanish?
Can I apply from united states?
Yes, as a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a Spanish visa from within the United States. The specific consulate or visa application center you should apply to depends on your state of residence, as each consulate has jurisdiction over certain regions. For example, the Consulate General of Spain in New York serves residents of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Similarly, the Consulate General in Washington, D.C., covers Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina. It’s important to apply through the consulate or visa application center that corresponds to your place of residence. Ensure you have all the required documents and meet the specific criteria for the visa type you’re applying for. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to start the application process well in advance of your intended move.
Our Team
For us, Lexidy is a way of life and what excites us the most is to be able to deliver the happiness and satisfaction of a successful immigration process. We want to help you achieve your goals and dreams, whether it’s residence in Spain or simply an investment.
Visit us: Av. Diagonal, 442, 3º 1ª , 08037 Barcelona (Spain)
Call us: +34 938 074 056
© 2026 LEXIDY -
MAKING LAW SIMPLE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
