How to Move to Spain from the US: Relocation Guide 2025

Are you thinking of moving to Spain from the USA? I’ve got you covered!

More than ever, Americans are thinking of moving abroad, and Spain stands out as an incredible option. Whether motivated by dreams of a better lifestyle or driven by the desire to escape the growing political unrest back home, Spain offers welcoming sunshine. 

Each year, thousands make the move, seeking its sun-drenched coasts, beautiful cities, and a more relaxed rhythm of life. But such a life-changing decision requires more than just dreams; it needs a solid plan.

Our own move to Spain as a family came a few years ago, during the political turmoil in the US. It was exactly what we needed—not just as a couple or a family, but as individuals seeking to improve our quality of life and reduce the societal stressors we were exposed to. We are going on our third year living in Spain and we have never looked back! Even our two teenage daughters and 11 year old son express how happy they are living here.

Imagine sipping a café con leche in a quaint Barcelona café, exploring the art-filled streets of Madrid, or unwinding on the sunny beaches of Malaga. Life in Spain offers a blend of rich history, diverse culture, and a more relaxed pace that many find irresistible.

In this guide, “Relocation Guide on How to Move to Spain from the US 2025,” we’ll navigate you through everything you need to know about making your Spanish dream a reality. From securing the right visa to understanding the cost of living to settling into your new home, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, chasing romance, or simply looking for a fresh start, Spain promises a colorful tapestry of experiences. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how you can start your Spanish journey, from visas to vistas!

Types of visas for Americans moving to Spain

Before we dive into the visa options for living in Spain, it’s important to note a key requirement for short visits. 

Starting in 2025, all non-Schengen area travelers, including Americans, will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) for short stays. This travel authorization is necessary for periods up to 90 days within a 180-day period and applies to tourism, business trips, or transit.

Now, if you’re planning to stay longer and make Spain your new home, securing the right visa is your first essential step. Depending on your reasons for moving—whether to study, work, invest, or simply enjoy the Spanish lifestyle—there are several visa options to consider. 

Here’s what you need to know about the top visas for Americans moving to Spain:

1.Student Visa:

 Ideal for those enrolled in full-time educational courses in Spain, this visa also permits part-time work or student internships.

2.Job Search Visa: 

Designed for recent graduates from top universities, this visa allows you to live in Spain for a year to seek employment or start a business.

3.Work Visa: 

Necessary for those with a job offer from a Spanish company, this visa is typically valid for the length of your employment contract.

4.Golden Visa Spain (Investor Visa):

 If you’re able to make a significant investment in Spain—such as purchasing real estate, investing in a business, or buying government bonds—this visa offers a fast track to residency.

5.Non-Lucrative Visa: 

For those who wish to live in Spain without working, this visa requires proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and comprehensive health insurance.

6.Permanent Residency: 

After living legally in Spain for five years, you can apply for permanent residency, allowing you to live and work indefinitely in the country.

7. Family Reunification Visa: 

This visa allows your relatives to join you in Spain, living legally as part of your family unit. My mom joined us after we moved to Spain and this options made the process really easy.

Required Documents:

• Valid US passport with at least 6 months remaining validity beyond your intended stay.
• Completed visa application form.
• Proof of sufficient financial means (such as bank statements or income tax returns).
• Private health insurance policy covering your entire stay in Spain. We have a great insurance agent so reach out and we will put you in touch with Carlos!
• Criminal background check certificate.
• Depending on your visa type, additional documents may be required.

Understanding the nuances and requirements of each visa is very important. This is why a relocation specialist can be an indispensable part of your plan. It all depends on how much time and availability you have to help the process along. We are happy to help with your relocation so feel free to reach out for a consultation.

USA vs Spain: Money Matters

When thinking about a move to Spain from the USA, it’s very important to understand the financial landscape you’re entering. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of living, financial planning, and banking as an American expat in Spain.

Cost of Living in Spain

Generally, living in Spain can be significantly more affordable than in the USA. Expenses like dining out, public transportation, and utilities are a lot lower. 

For example, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Spain typically costs around €15, compared to $25 in the US. Monthly utilities for an 85m2 apartment average €133 in Spain, while in the US, it could reach around $250. 

When it comes to rent, the average cost for a 1-bedroom apartment in a city center in Spain is approximately €950, considerably less than the $1,800 you might pay in the US​.

Banking and Financial Planning

Moving to a new country involves opening up a new bank account which will handle both your day-to-day transactions and your savings. Spanish banks are accustomed to dealing with expats, and many offer services in English. 

The fees associated with international transfers and managing your finances across countries can be very expensive. And currency conversion is another black hole which often means hidden fees. 

We use Wise as a great alternative to using banks for transferring money. It makes accessing your money really easy and is truly the most cost effective option out there.

How Much Money to Move to Spain

Starting a new life in Spain requires some upfront investment. Initially, you’ll need funds for visa applications, flights, setting up your new home, and possibly even buying property. Also keep in mind that the legal and administrative costs for visas can range from $1,500 to up to $10,000 depending on the visa type.​

You may decide to ship your furniture from the USA to Spain, for example, which typically costs between $2,500 and $10,000​. An alternative is to sell most of it and buy again on arrival. Read more about this here to know what these two options entail. (But personally, I usually suggest selling and replacing when you arrive).

This is why I recommend you have a well planned budget that covers the initial months of your stay as you adapt to your new living costs and setup.

Taxes

Understanding the tax implications in Spain is also vital. Spain has different tax rates and you might also be subjected to double taxation depending on your earnings and residency status. 

I highly recommend you consult with a tax advisor who knows both the US and Spanish tax laws to make sure you are filing correctly and taking advantage of any possible tax treaties. Spain crosses all its tees, so if you spend money on just one thing off this list, let this be it.

Living in Spain as an American

Spain has become a vibrant hub for American expats, with several cities emerging as top destinations due to their lifestyle, amenities, and expat-friendly communities. A large communities of internationals means a smoother transition for you if you’re just arriving. For us, connecting with other expats was life changing. They are a group of people in the same position and prove to be an invaluable source of information and resources. We have made some of our best friends through other expats!

Top Cities Where Americans Move to in Spain

📍 Madrid and Barcelona – These two major cities are the most popular choices for Americans relocating to Spain. Madrid offers a unique blend of historical and modern lifestyles, with vibrant cultural scenes and high-quality life standards. Barcelona appeals for its Mediterranean charm, architectural beauty, and a diverse international community​.

📍 Valencia – Often rated highly in global expat surveys, Valencia is favored for its excellent quality of life, affordable living costs, and fantastic climate. It’s a city that balances old Spanish charm with the conveniences of a modern urban environment​.

📍 Alicante and Malaga – Both cities are recognized for their lower cost of living and ease of settling in. They are especially appealing to retirees and those looking for a relaxed lifestyle near the coast. Alicante and Malaga offer a mix of cultural activities and leisure opportunities, which makes them attractive for long-term residency​.

📍 The Balearic Islands – Locations like Palma de Mallorca are really attractive due to their mix of island life and modern amenities. The islands are particularly popular among those who prefer a quieter life close to nature while enjoying a stable economy and good infrastructure​. We lived on Mallorca for a year and it was a once in a lifetime experience.

📍 San Sebastian and Cadiz – Cities like Cadiz and San Sebastian also draw expats for their unique lifestyles. Cadiz is known for its historical significance and vibrant local culture, while San Sebastian is acclaimed for its food scene and beautiful beaches​.

Health Insurance and Health Care in Spain for Americans

For Americans relocating to Spain, sorting out health insurance is not just a precaution; it’s a visa requirement. The Spanish government mandates that all individuals have coverage for the length of their stay.

It must be purchased from a company operating within Spain and offer coverage that is similar to that provided by the Spanish National Health Service​.

Even though Spain’s public healthcare system is excellent, it’s only accessible to those who are employed and make social security contributions in Spain. As an American expat, until you qualify for public coverage, private health insurance will be your go-to from the moment you land in Spain​.

Advantages of Private Health Insurance in Spain

🚑 Immediate Access: Private health insurance allows you to access medical services immediately upon your arrival in Spain. Our personal experience has been incredible with top notch doctors and excellent care.

🚑 Personalized Healthcare Choices: It also allows you to choose your doctors and specialists, which is a significant advantage if you don’t speak Spanish or if you are looking for specialists in certain medical fields. We have worked with amazing English speaking doctors!

🚑 Faster Services: Private hospitals are known for shorter waiting times for consultations and procedures, which is a considerable advantage over the public system where wait times are much longer. We have been blown away by the short waiting time and great communication.

🚑 Coverage for Dental Care: Unlike the public system, most private health insurance plans provide options for dental coverage.

Move to Spain from US: Legal and Administrative steps to immigrating

Here’s a guide to understanding these necessary procedures, crafted to help you weave your way into the fabric of Spanish life with confidence and ease.

✔ Visa Application: Your Gateway to New Beginnings

The journey starts with selecting the appropriate visa, each tailored to different needs and aspirations—be it working, studying, investing, or retiring. 

This crucial step involves gathering a plethora of documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial stability, a clean criminal record, and adequate health insurance, which are foundational to securing your legal status. Submitting a meticulously prepared application at the Spanish consulate sets the stage for a smooth entry into Spain.

✔ TIE Card: Establishing Your Identity in Spain

Upon your arrival, the next pivotal step is obtaining your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE), which is indispensable for proving your residency and integrating into Spanish society. 

You’ll need to register at your local town hall to confirm your residence and then proceed to the police station to apply for your TIE. This card is your key to unlocking various facets of daily life in Spain, from healthcare to banking.

✔ Social Security and Healthcare: Integrating Into the System

Engagement with the Spanish social security system is essential if you’re employed, as it grants you access to Spain’s comprehensive public healthcare and a suite of social benefits. 

If you are not employed or don’t immediately qualify for public healthcare, you’ll need private health insurance until you can fully integrate into the public system.

✔ Practical Steps: Driving and Banking

Next you’ll need to convert your US driving license to a Spanish one and open a local bank account. These steps will make sure you can pay your bills through your bank and also have a Spanish ID in your wallet.

✔ Legal Guidance: Smoothing Your Path

The intricacies of Spanish immigration laws and the paperwork involved can be daunting to say the least. Getting the help of a lawyer specialized in immigration can be just what you need to help you to navigate this complex landscape. They can make all the difference and make sure that all paperwork is completed on time, and any legal hurdles are smoothly overcome. We have a great list of resources for fantastic lawyers in Spain!

Benefits: What we love about living in Spain

🇪🇸 Relaxed Lifestyle: Our family loves the leisurely pace of life that emphasizes enjoying life’s moments. I have found that many of the North American ideas which made life more stressful in the US are just no longer an issue, like timing, organizing things way in advanced, driving kids to umpteen activities…things are just a lot lighter and priorities are different.

🇪🇸 Healthy Living: The mild weather and Mediterranean diet was a winner for us. The olive oil, fruits, seafood, and smaller portions all contributed to better physical and mental health, for us all. It is just a more holistic and simple way of living.

🇪🇸 Cultural Richness: We love the street festivals, holidays and local community events. From flamenco and unique architecture to world-class museums, fireworks and village parades, we want to see it all and love how family friendly it all is.

🇪🇸 Cost of Living: We find Spain to be very affordable with lower costs in housing, healthcare, and education without compromising quality. It’s just amazing! Our overhead for a family of five has shrunk by MORE THAN HALF, but with a better quality of living!

🇪🇸 Welcoming to Expatriates: We have found it so easy to make friends here. The locals are friendly and very welcoming.

What we find challenging about living in Spain

🇪🇸 Distance and Time Zone: Living in Spain means being quite far from North America. The 6 to 9 hours time difference is a lot, and flights take about 14 hours to get to the West Coast.

🇪🇸 Language and Regional Dialects: Besides Spanish, regions like Catalonia predominantly speak Catalan. There aren’t that many English speakers, especially outside major cities, meaning that the learning curve is steep.

🇪🇸 Cultural Adjustments: Adapting to local customs like the metric system, roundabout driving, cheek kissing greetings, late dining hours, siesta breaks, and slower-paced customer service can take time for Americans. We’re used to speedy everything!

🇪🇸 Bureaucracy: Spain is notorious for bureaucracy and it can complicate everything from obtaining residency to setting up utilities You’ll need lots of patience and persistence.

🇪🇸 Economic Factors: The job market in Spain offers lower salaries and has higher unemployment rates compared to the U.S. which makes it difficult if you’re looking for a job.

Can I work in Spain as an American?

Working in Spain as an American means navigating some bureaucratic processes, but can be a great option. First, you’ll need to get a job offer from a Spanish employer. This job offer is crucial as it is the basis of your work visa application. 

You’ll need to gather a variety of documents, including your employment contract, and apply for your visa through the Spanish consulate or embassy in the U.S. before moving. This process can be quite detailed and requires careful planning to make sure you meet all the legal requirements​. But it can be done and we know dozens of people who have made it happen!

Understanding Work Culture Differences

Once you’re set up with a job, adapting to the Spanish work culture will be your next challenge. Spanish work culture is generally more relaxed than in the U.S., with a strong emphasis on personal relationships and a balanced approach to work-life dynamics. 

Workdays typically run from 9 AM to 6 PM with a long lunch break, which shows the cultural importance of meals as social occasions. However, don’t expect a midday siesta; you won’t find it in modern corporate environments.

Teamwork and collaboration are valued a lot more than in North America, but the work environment can also be quite hierarchical so you’ll have to feel your way at the beginning.

 Punctuality for meetings can also vary, with a much more flexible idea of time than you are used to in the U.S. Also, salaries in Spain are generally lower than in the U.S., so this is something to consider.

Education in Spain: What’s It Like for American Kids?

Here’s what our experience was like with our kids.

✏️ Variety of Choices

Spain’s got it all—public schools, private schools, and “concertados” (semi-private schools). Most expat parents end up choosing either international schools or private schools because they often offer part of the curriculum in English. Either way, the schools are excellent, it just depends on what you’re looking for. Read more about choosing a Spanish school here.

✏️ Language in the Classroom

If your kids go to a public or concertado school, they’ll need to get their Spanish up to snuff pretty quick since most of the teaching is in Spanish. In regions with their own languages, like Catalonia or the Basque Country, local languages could be a big part of the school day, too.

✏️ Quality and Cost

Public schools are free, but don’t forget about the extras like books, materials, and sometimes even an annual donation. Private and international schools offer smaller classes and more English, but they’ll definitely hit your wallet harder, ranging from a few thousand to over twenty grand a year depending on the swankiness of the institution.

✏️ School Hours and Vacations

Spanish school days start later and end later than what you’re used to, and the famous long summer break is real, which is great for family trips or just enjoying the Spanish sun. My teenagers took to the new schedule very quickly.

✏️ Higher Education

If you’re planning on sticking around until the kids hit college age, Spain offers some solid universities that are super affordable compared to the U.S. Plus, there are programs in English if their Spanish isn’t quite ready for a full dive into a Spanish-language degree.

Overall, the education system here is pretty great, and if your kids are adaptable, they’ll likely thrive in the diverse, multilingual environment.  To read more about our journey through the school system, read this article on navigating high school in Spain.

Retirement in Spain as an American

If you’re planning to retire in Spain, it offers a fantastic blend of benefits that align well with the perks of living there we’ve already explored. The warm weather, relaxed lifestyle, and lower cost of living make it a great destination for retirees looking to stretch their dollars a little further. 

Spain’s healthcare system is excellent,  which means that retirees can have access to affordable, quality medical services. And getting a retiree residency through the non-lucrative visa is straightforward and requires just a few documents like proving financial stability and health insurance. 

You’ll also find that Spain’s expat communities are very welcoming, making it easy to make new friends and integrate into local life. We are part of many expat communities throughout Spain and there are hundreds of gatherings a month and a wonderful network of like minded people.

Moving Your Furniture to Spain

When moving your furniture to Spain, planning is key. You’ll need to decide whether to ship your existing furniture or sell it all and buy new items upon arrival. Shipping can be costly but allows you to keep your things. But just remember everything an be replaced here in Spain unless of course it has sentimental value.

Moving your furniture to Spain involves choosing a reliable international moving company, obtaining quotes, and packing your house up. It’s also important to check Spanish customs regulations to understand what can be brought into the country and whether any taxes apply.

For more details on moving your furniture take a look at this article about moving your belongings overseas.

Transporting Your Pets

Taking your pets to Spain means a lot of careful preparation to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. Start by consulting with your vet to get a health certificate and make sure all vaccinations are up to date, including rabies. 

Spain requires that pets have an ISO-compliant microchip, which your vet can help you with as well as any other specific entry requirements that apply to animals coming from the USA. 

You’ll also want to make a plan with your vet for keeping your pet calm on the day of the trip. Airlines have specific policies regarding pet travel, so it’s important to book a pet-friendly airline and understand their guidelines for in-cabin or cargo travel. 

Our dog Mo is part of our family so we made sure his journey went smoothly. Read up on this topic by taking a look at this article about shipping your pets internationally.

How to Move to Spain from America: The Wrap-Up

Making the move to Spain was one of the best decisions we ever made as a family. From the sunny climate to the friendly communities and the slower pace of life, every aspect has improved our quality of life, offering a daily experience that balances relaxation with rich cultural immersion.

The transition taught us a lot about resilience and adaptability. Settling in here has allowed us to connect more deeply as a family and with our new community, truly making Spain feel like home. I hope this article is what you need to make the leap too!

And feel free to reach out for more help with how to move from Spain to the United States. We would be more than happy to serve as your relocation specialist!

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