Welcome to Move to Spain Guide — your essential source of information for living, working, and thriving in Spain.
Whether you're a digital nomad, entrepreneur, or retiree, here you'll find practical advice, real costs, and updated resources to help make your transition smooth and successful.
Citizens of the EU/EEA/Switzerland do not need a visa. Non-EU nationals may apply for visas like the Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, or Work Visa.
The Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU citizens with passive income to reside in Spain without working locally. It's popular among retirees and remote workers.
Spain offers a lower cost of living than most of Western Europe. Expect €1,000–€1,800/month in smaller cities, and more in Madrid or Barcelona. A full cost breakdown is available in our Cost of Living section.
Yes. Spain welcomes foreign buyers, and property ownership can support certain visa applications. The process requires a NIE number, notary, and legal assistance.
Definitely. Spain has a Digital Nomad Visa, fast internet, and coworking hubs in cities like Valencia, Madrid, and Malaga. Beach towns are also popular for remote work.
You’ll need ID, proof of address, and a NIE (tax ID number). Some banks allow online opening. Digital banks like N26 or Wise are also great options for expats.
The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your tax ID in Spain, needed for almost everything. You can get it at a police station or via a gestor (agent).
EU citizens can work freely. Non-EU nationals need a work permit or work visa, usually sponsored by an employer or through a self-employment route.
Spain offers universal public healthcare (SNS) and excellent private options. Non-residents usually need private health insurance to obtain a visa.
In major cities, many people speak some English. But learning basic Spanish will greatly improve your experience and help with paperwork, integration, and daily life.
