Question
My wife is German (EU Citizen) and wants to move to Spain, but she hasn’t found a job contract yet. One lawyer told her that having €10,000 in her account is enough to get Spain residency, while another lawyer said she must have more than €30,000 if she wants residency without a work contract, plus around €1,000 per year for private health insurance. She’s confused—can anyone advise us?
Answers
These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“As an EU passport holder, she only needs to prove just over €7,000 to qualify for residency.”
“Yes, private health insurance is required until she finds a job; then the employer will enroll her in the Spanish public health system.”
“The funds should ideally be in a Spanish bank account to show she will not be a burden on the Spanish state.”
“EU law allows the funds to be anywhere in the EU, but official translations may be required.”
“Some local extranjerias (immigration offices) may have different financial requirements, so it’s best to check region-specific guidelines.”
“Residency applications typically require showing proof of sufficient funds of around €7,200 per year or a stable monthly income.”
“There is confusion because some lawyers suggest higher amounts based on the idea of securing funds for five years, which is not always necessary.”
“For pareja de hecho (registered partnership), additional requirements might apply for including a spouse in the residency process.”
“A financial proof of €7,200 per year is usually enough, but requirements may vary by location.”
Conclusion
EU citizens moving to Spain without a job must show financial self-sufficiency to obtain residency. Generally, having around €7,200 annually, or proof of a regular monthly income, should suffice, along with private health insurance.
Some regions may have varying requirements, and while a Spanish bank account is commonly suggested, EU law permits funds to be held elsewhere in the EU. It’s advisable to verify requirements with local authorities and be cautious of misinformation.
