Moving to Spain
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

The allure of life in sunny Spain, with its stunning beaches and high quality of life, has attracted over 6 million expats to its cities. If you're considering making the move but are unsure where to start, this guide will walk you through the process of moving to Spain.

Spain welcomes people from various backgrounds, but certain groups find it easier to make the move:

1. EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens: If you're from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you can move to Spain without a visa. You have the right to live and work there for up to three months, but for longer stays, additional steps are required.
2. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: If you're not from an EU/EEA/Swiss country and plan to stay in Spain for over three months, you'll need a temporary residence permit. After residing in Spain continuously for five years, you become eligible for permanent residency.

As an EU citizen, you have the freedom to seek employment, study, and move within Spain without an entry visa. However, you must register with the Central Register of Foreign Nationals and obtain a residence certificate within three months of your arrival.

Non-EU citizens must choose the appropriate long-stay visa and residence permit based on their purpose of travel. A long-stay (D visa) visa is necessary for long-term residency.
Here's how you can move to Spain for over three months:

Moving to Spain for Work:

Non-EU citizens can't simply move to Spain and find employment. You'll need a work visa to participate in paid activities. Spain offers various work visas for skilled professionals in occupations with shortages. The EU Blue Card is also an option for highly skilled individuals.

Moving to Spain to Study:

To study in Spain, you must first enroll in an accredited educational institution. Afterward, apply for a Spain student visa. Upon arrival, obtain a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) to legally stay for more than six months. Student visas may also allow part-time work.

Moving to Spain for Family Reunification:

If you have a family member who is a legal resident in Spain, you can join them through a family reunification visa. Your family member must renew their residence permit before you can apply for a family visa at a Spanish diplomatic mission.

Moving to Spain for Retirement:

While Spain doesn't have a retirement-specific visa, the Golden Visa (Spain Investor Visa) and the Non-Lucrative Visa are popular routes for foreign retirees. Eligibility requires a clean criminal record and financial independence with sufficient funds to support yourself. The Golden Visa can lead to permanent residency.

Spain offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

Yes, you can bring your pets to Spain, but specific rules apply depending on your country of origin. Here are some general guidelines:

For EU Nationals:

• Your pet must be at least 12 weeks and 21 days old.
• You cannot bring more than five pets.
• You should present a microchip (issued before 2011), a rabies vaccination card, and a European pet passport.

For Non-EU Nationals:

• Enter Spain through designated points of entry (Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Malaga).
• Declare your entry with a pet to the Guardia Civil Tax Department.
• Provide a microchip (issued before 2011), a rabies vaccination card, a European pet passport, a health certificate from a veterinarian (translated into Spanish), and a statement confirming non-commercial purposes.
• A rabies blood test may be required for certain countries.

Moving to Spain with pets is possible, but compliance with these regulations ensures a smooth entry for your furry companions into Spanish territory.

Spain offers a multitude of attractive destinations for expats seeking a new place to call home. Here, we explore some of the most popular areas that consistently draw expatriates from around the world:

Barcelona:

Barcelona is a bustling cosmopolitan city that beckons with its vibrant atmosphere. This coastal gem boasts an abundance of bars, restaurants, and museums, making it a hub for culture and entertainment. The city's international appeal is evident in its diverse resident population. Barcelona promises an excellent quality of life, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and architectural wonders. However, potential expats should be mindful of their budget, as Barcelona is known for a higher cost of living compared to other Spanish cities.

Madrid:

As the capital of Spain, Madrid is an expat magnet for several compelling reasons. This vibrant city is renowned for its top-notch healthcare services, considered some of the best in the country. It boasts a well-developed infrastructure and an efficient public transport system, contributing to an overall comfortable and convenient lifestyle. Madrid caters to various expat profiles, whether you're a student, a job seeker, or a family looking for a new home.

Valencia:

For those yearning to immerse themselves in Spanish culture, Valencia offers an authentic experience. This coastal city provides a safe and pleasant environment, a favorable climate, and a rich urban landscape. Expats find it easy to integrate into the local community, as Valencia boasts a significant expatriate presence. Additionally, the city's lower cost of living compared to other Spanish areas is complemented by high-quality healthcare services. Valencia shines as one of the healthiest cities in terms of healthcare access, service quality, and environmental cleanliness.

Granada:

Nestled in the southern part of Spain, Granada offers a unique alternative to coastal living. While not a major metropolis, Granada's charm lies in its proximity to both mountains and the sea, allowing residents to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. The city prides itself on its welcoming attitude toward foreigners, making it an excellent choice for expats. Affordability, safety, and cleanliness are additional perks associated with living in Granada.

Seville:

If you have a passion for awe-inspiring architecture and the rhythmic beats of flamenco, Seville is a city that speaks to your soul. As the largest city in southern Spain, Seville boasts a rich architectural heritage, reliable transportation networks, and a cost of living that won't break the bank. Its Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant weather even during the colder months. Safety is a priority in Seville, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a sunny and peaceful place to live, especially retirees.

These top areas in Spain cater to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles, from the bustling cosmopolitanism of Barcelona to the cultural richness of Seville. Spain's diversity and expat-friendly atmosphere make it a welcoming destination for individuals and families seeking a fresh start.

Becoming a permanent resident in Spain typically requires five years of continuous legal residency in the country. However, some groups can qualify for permanent residency before completing the full five-year term. These include:

1. Retirees: Workers or self-employed individuals who reach the pension age and have resided in Spain for over three years.
2. Early Retirees: Self-employed individuals who opt for early retirement, having worked in Spain for the preceding 12 months and resided in the country for more than three years.
3. Incapacity to Work: Workers or self-employed individuals who have lived in Spain for more than two years and had to stop working due to permanent incapacity.
4. Cross-Border Workers: Those who, after three years of working and living in Spain, work in another EU member state but maintain their residence in Spain.

Acquiring Spanish citizenship involves more than just moving to Spain. After 10 years of legal residency in Spain with a residence permit, you can apply for citizenship. Other routes to Spanish citizenship include birthright, marriage, descent, and option. Spanish citizenship also grants you the right to vote.