Hey there! So, you’ve decided to leave the US and make the big move to Spain, huh?
Well, buckle up—oh wait, scratch that—strap in for a wild ride because moving abroad comes with its fair share of surprises!
Personally, I’ve had my own “wait, what?” moments during the move.
Now that we’ve had a laugh, let’s get serious. Moving to Spain from the US can be an exciting adventure, but it does come with its own set of challenges.
From navigating the visa application process to finding the right place to settle down, there’s a lot to consider.
Here’s everything you need to know about moving to Spain as an American. 🏖️
If you’re an American citizen planning to move to Spain, the first thing you’ll need to figure out is what type of visa you need. Let me break it down for you.
For US citizens moving to Spain, you’ve got a couple of options. The easiest way is the ETIAS visa waiver (if you’re just visiting for under 90 days).
Besides, for those planning to stay longer or work in Spain, the process can get a bit more involved.
In my experience, patience is key—Spanish bureaucracy has its own pace.
Visa Type | Purpose | Requirements | Validity |
ETIAS Visa Waiver | Short-term visits (up to 90 days) | No visa required for stays under 90 days until 2025 | Up to 90 days |
Student Visa | Study programs in Spain | Proof of enrollment and financial means | 3 to 12 months, depending on program duration |
Work Visa | Employment in Spain | Job offer from a Spanish employer, employer initiates the process | 1 year, renewable |
Golden Visa | Investment residency | €500,000 minimum investment in property or other qualified investments | 1 year initially, renewable |
Non-Lucrative Visa | Retirement or long-term stay without working | Sufficient financial means, private health insurance | 1 year initially, renewable twice for 2-year terms |
Highly Skilled Visa | Highly skilled professionals | Senior role in a qualified field with salary requirements | 2 years, renewable |
Family Reunification Visa | Reunite with family members in Spain | Relationship proof, financial dependency on primary visa holder | Matches family member’s permit length |
In my view, this is one of the biggest reasons Americans are flocking to Spain—it’s cheaper! The cost of living in Spain is significantly lower than in the US, especially if you’re coming from big cities like New York or San Francisco. 
Here’s a quick comparison of monthly expenses between Spain and the US:
Expense | Spain (€) | US ($) |
Rent (1-bedroom) | 700 – 1,200 | 1,500 – 3,500 |
Groceries (monthly) | 200 – 300 | 400 – 600 |
Dining Out (meal for 2) | 30 – 50 | 60 – 120 |
Public Transportation | 40 – 60 | 100 – 150 |
Health Insurance (private) | 50 – 150 | 200 – 500 |
As you can see, living in Spain is cheaper than in the US in almost every aspect.
The quality of life in Spain is top-notch. Think great healthcare, affordable groceries, and public transportation that actually works!
Buying a home in Spain as an American is actually easier than you might think.
Spain welcomes foreign buyers with open arms—especially if you’re eyeing that Golden Visa (which, from my perspective, is a sweet deal).
If you’re ready to buy property in Spain, here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
Life in Spain for Americans is a mix of new adventures and minor frustrations (like trying to figure out when businesses are open). But overall, it’s a fantastic experience!
From the laid-back lifestyle to the tapas culture, Spain offers a completely different vibe than the US.
Learning Spanish? Good luck. Seriously, picking up a few phrases helps.
And don’t stress about being fluent right away.
From experienced folks, the Spanish people are patient and often willing to switch to English if you’re struggling.
If you’re planning to work in Spain, you’ll need a work permit.
Most Americans get their permits through an employer, and the process isn’t too complicated—as long as your company is prepared. Jobs in Spain pay less than in the US, but the low cost of living makes up for it.
Pro Tip: Get a highly skilled visa if you’re in a specialized field—it fast-tracks the process!
Ah, retirement! 🏖️ If your dream is to retire in Spain, you’ll want to apply for the non-lucrative visa.
This visa allows you to live in Spain without working—perfect if you’ve got a pension or savings to support your new life.
…And let’s not forget that retiring in Spain means enjoying the Mediterranean climate, affordable healthcare, and delicious wine.
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves. After five years, they may apply for permanent residency.
The Golden Visa is a residency program that grants US citizens the right to live in Spain in exchange for a significant investment, usually in real estate.
Applicants must invest at least €500,000 in property in Spain. This visa allows holders to live and work in Spain and travel within the Schengen Zone.
✅ Yes. US citizens can buy property in Spain without restrictions. Purchasing real estate in Spain can also be a pathway to obtaining the Golden Visa, which provides residency rights.
The application process for a Spanish visa involves submitting required documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
Applicants must apply at the Spanish consulate in the US and may need to attend an interview. Processing times can vary depending on the type of visa.
US citizens can enter Spain without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. To stay longer or for other purposes, such as work or study, a relevant visa is required.
Maintaining ties with friends and family back home is equally important as building new relationships in your new location. Balancing these connections can be challenging but is necessary for emotional stability.
Thankfully, technology makes it easier to bridge the distance, enabling regular video calls, messaging, and social media interactions. These tools ensure that despite physical distance, your relationships remain strong.
What is the cost of living in Spain compared to the US?
🤑 The cost of living in Spain is generally lower than in the US. 🤑
Housing, healthcare, and transportation tend to be cheaper in Spain.
BTW, costs can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle choices. Remember, Madrid and Barcelona may have higher living costs compared to smaller towns.
How can US citizens obtain permanent residency in Spain?
US citizens can apply for permanent residency in Spain after legally residing in the country for five consecutive years.
Permanent residency allows individuals to live and work in Spain indefinitely and enjoy benefits similar to Spanish citizens, such as access to the public healthcare system.
What should US citizens know about the healthcare system in Spain?
Spain has a robust public healthcare system that is accessible to residents, including those with a residence permit. American expats may also opt for private health insurance in Spain, which offers a wider range of services and shorter wait times.
Are there specific places to live in Spain that are popular among American expats?
Popular places to live as an American expats like Madrid and Barcelona, known for their vibrant culture and amenities.
Coastal areas such as Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands fare also favored for their pleasant climate and scenic beauty. No one will stop you 😀
Can a US citizen move to Spain?
Yes
Is Spain a good country for Americans to move to?
Can be an exciting option for Americans due to –
✅ Rich culture and favorable climate.
✅ The cheaper cost of living.
✅ Quality lifestyle.
Is it cheaper to live in Spain or USA?
In general, Yes. For more details, read: Cost of Living in Spain vs USA
How much money do I need to immigrate to Spain?
For Americans moving to Spain, evaluating the financial prerequisites is crucial. The Spain Golden Visa is one option, allowing individuals to obtain residency in Spain by investing a substantial amount, typically starting at €500,000
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