How Can an American with Puerto Rican Ancestry Legally Relocate to Spain?

Last Updated on April 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi

Question

I am an American citizen with Puerto Rican ancestry. What do I need to relocate legally to Spain? I am a very young 60-plus-year-old actress but willing to work there in whatever! What do I need, and what are my options?

Answers

These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:

“You may be able to receive your Puerto Rican citizenship certificate if your parent was born in Puerto Rico, even if they are deceased. You’ll need your parent’s birth and death certificates.”

“Having Puerto Rican ancestry gives you access to Spanish citizenship after two years of legal residence in Spain. You still need a long-term visa to cover that period.”

“Check the Spanish consulate website for details on visa options.”

“The easiest route is the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) if you have passive income and don’t intend to work in Spain. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency and eventually Spanish citizenship.”

“The Golden Visa is an option if you invest €500,000 or more in Spanish real estate, though it may be phased out soon.”

“Work visas require a job offer from a Spanish employer willing to sponsor you. This is difficult for Americans unless you’re highly skilled or have specialized experience.”

“The Digital Nomad Visa might work if you’re a remote worker employed by a non-Spanish company.”

“Working in the arts in Spain is tough even for locals. Consider international companies like car rental agencies or airlines where English and Spanish fluency are valuable.”

“Ensure your Puerto Rican documents are valid. The process may have changed, but securing proof of ancestry could accelerate your Spanish citizenship application.”

Conclusion

Relocating to Spain as an American with Puerto Rican ancestry can be achievable with the right documentation and preparation. If you can obtain your Puerto Rican citizenship certificate, you may qualify for Spanish citizenship after two years of legal residence.

The most accessible visas include the Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, or a Work Visa with employer sponsorship. Consider working with Spanish immigration experts for personalized guidance.

Bruno Bianchi CEO & Spain Immigration Expert

Bruno Bianchi is the founder and CEO of Spainguru, Spain's largest expat immigration community with 150,000+ members. Since 2014 he has helped thousands of people relocate to Spain through expert guides, webinars and vetted professional services covering visas, residency, taxes and life in Spain.

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