Dreaming of a life in Spain? Whether it’s the sunshine, lifestyle, cost of living, or just a fresh start that’s calling you—planning a move abroad is exciting. But, before you even think about packing your bags or learning Spanish phrases, there’s one non-negotiable step…:
Are you legally allowed to live in Spain?
Your passport—specifically, whether or not it’s from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland—will determine what steps you need to take to stay in Spain for more than 90 days. And that’s the first thing you need to figure out before making any serious plans.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- The difference between moving to Spain with an EU passport vs. a non-EU passport
- The most common visa and residency options
- Why figuring out your eligibility first saves time, money, and stress later
Let’s start by identifying which category you fall into.
If You Have an EU, EEA, or Swiss Passport
If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, moving to Spain is significantly more straightforward. You do not need a visa to live, work, or study in Spain. However, that doesn’t mean there’s no paperwork at all.
Staying Longer Than 90 Days? You Need to Register
Once you arrive in Spain, if you plan to stay for more than 90 days, you are legally required to register as a resident. This process includes obtaining:
- A Padrón (empadronamiento), which registers your address with your local town hall.
- A Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión, often referred to as the EU Certificate of Residency.
- Your NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), which is your foreigner tax ID number used for almost all administrative tasks in Spain.
To obtain your EU residency certificate, you’ll typically need:
- A valid EU/EEA/Swiss passport and a copy
- Proof of address in Spain (e.g. rental contract, utility bill)
- Proof of income, employment, or financial self-sufficiency
- Health insurance coverage (either public or private, depending on your situation)
Bringing Non-EU Family Members
As an EU citizen, you may be able to bring non-EU family members with you through a process called family reunification. Eligible family members typically include:
- Spouse or registered partner
- Children under 21
- Dependent parents or parents-in-law
Note: You must show financial means to support your family and proof that you live together at the same address.
Important Reminder About Brexit
Since Brexit, UK passport holders are no longer considered EU citizens and must follow the standard non-EU immigration process, which involves applying for a visa before entering Spain for long-term stays.
If You’re a Non-EU Citizen
If you are not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you cannot move to Spain long-term without a visa. This includes citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most other non-EU countries.
You may visit Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (depending on your nationality), but staying longer requires official permission—typically in the form of a long-term visa or residency permit.
You Must Apply Before Arriving
In almost all cases, you must apply for a Spanish visa at a consulate or embassy in your home country before entering Spain. Applying from within Spain is only permitted in specific situations, such as the digital nomad visa.
Common Long-Stay Visa Options
Here are the main pathways for non-EU citizens planning to move to Spain:
1. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
- For retirees or those with passive income (not for employment or business)
- Must show sufficient financial means (approx. €28,800/year for one person in 2025, a figure tied to the annual IPREM and subject to change).
- Requires private health insurance and a clean criminal record
2. Digital Nomad Visa
- For remote workers, freelancers, or business owners working for clients or companies outside Spain
- Requires proof of remote work, income, and qualifications
- Offers a pathway to residency with work permissions
- You can apply from within Spain, if you are legally in Spain on a short-stay visa (e.g., tourist visa) and within the 90-day period.
3. Student Visa
- For individuals enrolled in a recognized study program in Spain
- Allows limited work (20–30 hours per week depending on program)
- Often a gateway to longer-term residence
4. Entrepreneur Visa / Self-Employment (Autónomo)
- For individuals planning to start and operate a business in Spain
- Requires a viable business plan and sufficient startup capital
5. Work Visa
- For those with a job offer from a Spanish employer who sponsors the visa
- Often difficult to obtain as Spanish employers usually need to demonstrate that no suitable EU/EEA/Swiss candidate is available for the position.
6. Family Reunification
- For spouses, children, or dependent relatives of individuals legally residing in Spain
- Requires proof of relationship, housing, income, and legal status of the sponsor
Each visa comes with its own set of requirements, timelines, and conditions. It’s essential to choose the one that fits your situation and to prepare all documents meticulously.
Why You Should Figure This Out First
Many people begin planning their move to Spain by browsing property listings, researching schools, or dreaming about where they’ll live. But unless you are certain you qualify for a visa or residency, that planning could be premature—and potentially wasted.
Visa Eligibility Determines Your Entire Timeline
The visa or residency process is the foundation of your move. It affects:
- When you can move
- How long you can stay
- Whether you can work or bring family
- What type of income qualifies
- What paperwork you’ll need
If you jump ahead and start planning flights, housing, or even a job—without confirming your eligibility—you could face delays, disappointment, or even a denied visa.
Visa Processing Takes Time
Most long-term visa applications must be submitted from your home country. Processing can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the consulate, visa type, and time of year. In some cases, getting an appointment is its own challenge.
That’s why figuring out your immigration path should be your first step, not your last.
What to Do Next
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a visa—or which one is right for you—you’re not alone. The good news is that there are trusted resources to help you navigate your options and avoid common mistakes.
Explore Spainguru’s Step-by-Step Help:
- Free Webinars Every 15 Days
Get expert-led guidance on the Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, taxes, relocation, and more. - Spainguru Immigration Services
Connect with vetted immigration lawyers and visa experts who can help you understand your eligibility and assist with the application process. - Need a quick overview?
Check out our detailed guides to the most common visa types:
Whether you’re just starting or already gathering documents, these resources will help you move forward with confidence.
6. Conclusion: Start With Legal Residency First
Before you commit to any plans—whether it’s booking a flight, signing a lease, or choosing a city—take the time to understand your legal path to living in Spain.
- If you have an EU/EEA/Swiss passport, you’ll still need to register once in Spain.
- If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’ll likely need to apply for a visa before you arrive (Digital Nomad Visa can be applied from within Spain).
Skipping this step or assuming it will “work itself out” later is one of the most common and costly mistakes prospective expats make.
Start with your immigration pathway. Once that’s clear, everything else—housing, healthcare, lifestyle—becomes much easier to plan with confidence.
