Spain is well known for its excellent standard of living, low cost of living, and favorable investment climate. Compared to many areas of the US, the nation offers a slower, more laid-back lifestyle and first-rate public healthcare.
If you’re an American citizen interested in moving to another nation, such as Spain, you need to plan ahead to make sure you don’t get stuck.
Yes, it’s a common misconception that all you need to do to enter this sunny European paradise is to pack your bags and have enough cash.
Statistically, approximately 41,953 U.S. citizens are officially residing in Spain. This represents a notable increase from previous years, with a 13% rise between 2019 and 2021. This report is according to Statista. This shows that it’s 100% possible to immigrate to Spain from US provided your take the necessary steps.
In this article, we have put down detailed information of everything you need to know and how to go about it. This article also captures step-step guide on how you can immigrate to Spain from USA legally. Carefully read through!!
About Spanish Immigration Laws
You must comprehend how Spain treats foreigners before you begin to fantasize about flamenco evenings and tapas hopping.
Depending on your reasons for moving—work, retirement, education, or investment—Spain provides a variety of immigration routes.
Up to 90 days of stay is free for tourists, but after that, a visa is needed. Indeed, overstaying is strictly enforced in Spain.
Why Immigrate to Spain as a U.S. Citizen?
People migrate to a country for various reasons. For a country like Spain here are reasons you might want to move there if you are a US citizen or a citizen from any other country:
Spain Offers High Quality of Life
Spain is celebrated for offering an easy-going, fulfilling, and balanced lifestyle. There is more of a sedate pace to life, leading people to better enjoy the things in life — whether it be a slow-paced walk, leisurely dinner among friends, or a nap mid-afternoon.
American expats who move to Spain often point to a noticeably improved physical as well as mental well-being. Spain consistently sits atop global ratings of quality-of-life metrics of healthcare, infrastructure, safety, and happiness measurements.
There is Lower Cost of Living
Living in Spain is much more affordable than living in most of the large U.S. cities. For example, the cost of renting Valencia or Granada apartments is half the cost of similar apartments in Los Angeles or New York.
Grocery shopping, dining out, transportation, and healthcare are also much lower. This enables a great many Americans to live a comfortable lifestyle on a fixed income, savings, or remote income streams.
Spain has First-rate Public Healthcare
Spain has an world-class health care system that is efficient and low-cost. Natives can get public healthcare through the national health system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) for little or no cost.
Private medical care is also accessible at modest costs, often with little wait times and doctors who speak English.
The majority of U.S. citizens find that Spain’s medical care not only costs less but is also higher quality than they were used to at home.
There is Work-Life Balance
Work is important in Spain, but life outside of work is more valued. Businesses will close for lunchtime, and employees are given generous time off — typically 22 paid days of leave per year, plus public holidays.
Family, social life, and leisure activities are given priority in ways many Americans find to be very invigorating. This slower pace of life helps reduce stress levels and increase personal satisfaction.
Gateway to Europe
Once you’re a legal resident of Spain, you can travel to anywhere in the Schengen Zone — 26 European countries with open borders.
Weekend trips to France, Italy, Portugal, Germany, or Greece are simple and affordable. This access to the rest of Europe is a tremendous advantage for most Americans.
Friendly and Welcoming People
Spanish citizens are renowned for their hospitality, social behavior, and welcoming nature towards foreigners.
While there may be communication problems at first, people are usually cooperative and understanding, as long as you do your best to talk using some Spanish.
There are also big and active expat communities in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Malaga, which facilitate you to settle down in no time and make friends.
Check out: Employment-Based Green Cards in the U.S: Eligibility & Application
Types of Spain Visas for Americans
As an American citizen, there are different Spain visas you can apply for:
Non-Lucrative Visa
This is ideal for retirees or remote workers who don’t plan to earn money in Spain. You’ll need to prove sufficient savings or passive income (like retirement or rental income).
For this visa, you must have a minimum savings of €28,000/year. The visa covers your health insurance which must be private and you won’t be allowed to do any local work.
Work Visa
Work visa is another type of visa you can use to migrate from US to Spain. For this type of visa, you need to get a job offer first from a Spanish employer who can prove that a local couldn’t fill the role.
Once approved, you can live and work legally. Most times, this type of visa is sponsored by the employer.
Student Visa
Planning to study Spanish or attend a university in Spain? This visa is for you. Bonus: It often allows limited work hours. You need proof of school enrollment, accommodation and financial support.
Golden Visa
Got money to invest? With a minimum €500,000 investment in Spanish real estate, you can qualify for a golden visa. With this visa, you can include family members.
Read Also: Visa Interview Questions You MUST Prepare For — And How to Nail Every Answer!
How to Immigrate to Spain from USA | Application Process
How to Immigrate to Spain from USA as an American: Prior to beginning your application, decide the type of visa you want to apply for. Applying for a Spanish visa usually entails the following steps.
1. Make an appointment at your home country’s consulate or the Spanish Embassy. Keep in mind that confirmation of residency will be required. You can make the visa appointment in person, over the phone, or online.
2. Gather the necessary documentation. Before you depart for your visa appointment, make sure you have all the required documentation. Typically, the following records will be requested:
- A passport that is currently valid
- A recent photo the size of a passport. This shouldn’t be older than three months.
- Evidence of accommodations
- Evidence of funds
Additional docs based on the type of visa you’re applying for 3. Make your appointment. Remember to bring all of your supporting documentation and make sure you arrive on time. Some inquiries will be asked by the consular office. Give them honest answers.
4. Make the necessary payments. Depending on the kind of visa you are asking for, the precise amount will change.
5. Await the outcome. If the embassy or consulate finds any errors in your application, this could take up to 15 days or more.
The amount of money you need to get residency in Spain depends on the type of visa or residence permit you apply for.
How Much Money Do You Need to Get Residency in Spain?
The cost for getting a residency in Spain differs by the type of Spain Visa you are entering with.
1. Non-Lucrative Visa (Retirement or Living Without Working)
This visa is for people who want to live in Spain without working (like retirees or remote income earners).
- Required Income:
You must prove you have at least €2,400/month (approx. €28,800/year) for yourself.
For each additional family member, add €600/month. - Proof Needed:
Bank statements, pension income, investments, or other regular income.
2. Digital Nomad Visa (Working Remotely for a Foreign Employer)
If you work online for a non-Spanish company, this is a great option.
- Required Income:
Around €2,200–€2,500/month (exact amount may vary by region). - Proof Needed:
Work contract, proof of being employed for at least 3 months, tax documents, and proof of remote work capability.
3. Work Visa (Job Offer in Spain)
If you get hired by a Spanish company, the company usually sponsors you.
- No minimum savings required, but the salary in your job offer must meet legal minimums (usually €1,300+ per month before taxes for full-time work).
4. Golden Visa (Investment Residency)
This visa is for people who want to invest in Spain.
- Minimum Investment Required:
- Buy real estate worth €500,000+, OR
- Invest €1 million in a Spanish business or bank deposit
- Invest €2 million in Spanish government bonds
5. Student Visa
- You must show you can support yourself:
Around €600–€700/month or €7,000–€8,000/year.
| Visa Type | Monthly Income Needed | Total Yearly Funds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Lucrative Visa | €2,400/month | €28,800 | Cannot work in Spain |
| Digital Nomad Visa | ~€2,200–€2,500/month | €26,400–€30,000 | Must work remotely for a non-Spanish job |
| Work Visa | Paid by employer | Based on salary | Need a job offer |
| Golden Visa | — | €500,000+ investment | Investment-based |
| Student Visa | €600–€700/month | €7,000–€8,000 | Must be enrolled in a course |
Note, Spain provides internsup programs. You can also apply for any of the Spain internship programs here
Places to Live in Spain As a US citizen
Spain is the destination of many foreign expats each year. The many cities, lifestyles, and individual preferences must all be taken into account to understand what it’s like to live in Spain. There is a long list of top Spanish cities to call home, and ultimately, it all boils down to personal preference.
Nonetheless, we have put up a list of the best five Spanish cities for foreigners to relocate to. Immigration to Spain from the United States is a popular option for people seeking a dynamic culture, affordable living, and a higher standard of living.
Madrid
Madrid is among the greatest cities in Spain to call home. Spain’s capital is Madrid. The state offers a unique fusion of history, culture, and modern conveniences.
Barcelona
Barcelona is another location that you ought to see. Barcelona is situated on the nation’s northeastern coast. As said before, Barcelona’s architectural wonders are maybe its most well-known feature, which alone justifies the journey.
Valencia
Remember that Valencia is one of the best cities in Spain to live in when you move there. Valencia enjoys abundant sunshine virtually year-round, much like other of Spain’s famous towns.
The Malaga
Another Spanish city that US citizens can relocate to is Malaga. The city is situated in the Andalusian region on the Costa del Sol. You can take advantage of its lovely weather all year long. It offers a beautiful atmosphere with really kind and welcoming individuals.
This city’s extremely low cost of living in comparison to other major Western European cities is another intriguing feature.
Sevilla
The center of Andalusia is where Sevilla is situated. This city is thought to be the most romantic in all of Spain. This is one of the best places to reside if you’re going from the US to Spain.
What is Housing and Renting in Spain Like?
The rental market in Spain can be complex, despite the fact that renting a home there is about half as expensive as renting in the US. Buying a home in Spain may be easier than renting, considering the governmental obstacles you would face as a foreigner looking to rent.
The good news is that now is a great time to purchase Spanish real estate. According to expatica.com, “The typical cost of property per square meter in Barcelona and Madrid ranges from €3,000 to €5,000 (€150,000 to €250,000 for a 50 square meter flat).”
You’ll typically pay a little more to be close to the ocean, just like in many other locations across the world.
You will most likely receive a substantial return on your Spanish real estate investment because of the high demand for short-term rentals. Valencia, Madrid, Malaga, Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands are some of the most lucrative places to invest in real estate.
Read Also: Is the SB1 Visa Right for You? Everything You Need to Know!
Taxes and Financial Obligations
If you’re living in Spain for more than 183 days/year, you’re a tax resident. Spain taxes global income. Spain and US have a tax treaty to avoid double taxation.
Also, US taxes citizens abroad. That means as a US citizen living in Spain, your country also tax you.
When it comes to education, Spain has both public and private schools. Their public schools are mainly free and all in Spanish.
Their private schools are mainly for international students because they speak English. The cost is around €400–€1000/month.
Conclusion
Relocating to Spain from the USA is a lifestyle upgrade rather than merely a change of location. This dream can become a reality with a little preparation, perseverance, and documentation. Regardless of your goals—retirement, education, employment, or simply starting over—Spain offers a welcoming environment and a visa.
FAQs
Up to 90 days in any 180 days for tourism or short visits.
Yes, with a non-lucrative visa or Spain’s new Digital Nomad visa.
Spain doesn’t allow dual citizenship with the US, so yes—if applying for citizenship.
Yes, but you’ll need a NIE (foreigner ID number) and proof of address.
Most cities are safe, but Valencia, San Sebastián, and Salamanca are often ranked highest.
References
- Immigrantinvest.com –Moving to spain from us
- Housinganywhere.com- Moving to Spain as a US Citizen
- Suddath.com- Guide to moving to spain from the us
