1. What are the main visa options for Americans who want to immigrate to Spain?
In 2025, the main visas for U.S. citizens are:
- Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) – for retirees or people with passive income.
- Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) – for remote workers or freelancers working for non-Spanish clients.
- Work Visa – for professionals hired by a Spanish company.
- Family Reunification Visa – for those joining a spouse, parent, or child already legally residing in Spain.
2. How long does the immigration process from the U.S. to Spain take?
The full process typically lasts 3–4 months:
- 4–6 weeks to prepare, translate, and legalize U.S. documents.
- 6–10 weeks for consulate review.
- 30–45 days in Spain for empadronamiento, fingerprints, and TIE collection.
3. Do I need a lawyer to handle my immigration to Spain?
Yes. Spanish immigration law requires that official submissions and appeals be prepared or reviewed by a registered immigration lawyer (abogado).
We collaborate with trusted law firms that handle your visa application legally and efficiently, especially for the Digital Nomad Visa, which—when processed directly in Spain—grants up to three years of residence from the start, instead of just one year if filed at the U.S. consulate.
4. How do you coordinate immigration and housing at the same time?
We run both processes in parallel. While your lawyer prepares the visa submission and follows up with the authorities, we handle your housing search, verify documentation, and secure the lease contract required for visa approval. This coordination ensures your visa and housing progress together, avoiding delays and rejected files.
5. Why do I need a rental contract or property deed for my Spanish visa?
Most consulates and immigration offices require proof of housing to confirm your address in Spain. This can be a long-term rental contract (minimum 12 months) or a property ownership deed. The document must be in your name, include the full address, and comply with visa validity requirements.
6. Can I rent a property in Spain before my visa is approved?
Yes. You can rent remotely using a digital signature and, if needed, a power of attorney through your lawyer or our team. We coordinate directly with owners and agencies to secure a legally compliant contract. Every lease is reviewed by our legal partners to ensure it meets both immigration and tenancy law requirements.
7. What is the TIE and why do I need it?
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is your Spanish residence card. It displays your NIE number, visa type, and validity. You must apply for it within 30 days of entering Spain. It’s essential for healthcare, banking, school registration, and administrative tasks.
8. How long does it take to get the TIE after arriving in Spain?
Usually 3–6 weeks from appointment to card collection. The process involves:
- Empadronamiento (city registration).
- Fingerprint appointment (cita de huellas).
- Collection of your TIE card after 3–4 weeks.
We help schedule and accompany you through each step.
9. What documents do Americans need to immigrate to Spain?
You’ll typically need:
- Valid U.S. passport (6+ months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- FBI background check (apostilled)
- Medical certificate
- Proof of income or savings
- Private health insurance
- Housing contract or property deed
- Consulate appointment or local immigration submission receipt
10. How much income do I need to immigrate to Spain from the U.S.?
For 2025, expect to show €2,500–€3,000/month for the main applicant, plus €600–€800/month per dependent. You can demonstrate this through bank statements, pensions, or investment income. Families of four typically need to show €50,000–€60,000 per year.
11. What is the Work Visa and who can apply?
The Work Visa is for Americans who have a confirmed job offer from a Spanish company. The employer must sponsor the application and justify the hire. Work visas are usually issued for one year and renewable as long as the employment continues. Once in Spain, the worker must register and apply for the TIE card.
12. Can Americans work in Spain with the Non-Lucrative Visa?
No. The Non-Lucrative Visa doesn’t allow employment or freelance activity. However, after one year, it can be converted into a Work or Self-Employment Visa if eligibility conditions are met.
13. How are U.S. expats taxed after immigrating to Spain?
After living in Spain for more than 183 days in a year, you become a Spanish tax resident and must declare worldwide income. The U.S.–Spain Double Taxation Treaty prevents double taxation, but both returns must be filed properly. We connect clients with bilingual accountants specialized in U.S.–Spain tax coordination.
14. How can I transfer money safely from the U.S. to Spain?
Use EU-regulated transfer services or international banks. Transfers above €10,000 must be declared to Spanish authorities under anti–money laundering rules. We advise clients on safe, compliant methods for rent, deposits, and property payments.
15. Can I buy property in Spain before obtaining my visa?
Yes. U.S. citizens can legally buy property before obtaining residency. Ownership supports visa credibility for Non-Lucrative or Digital Nomad applicants. We coordinate the legal and notarial process with your lawyer and notary, ensuring all documents meet immigration and tax requirements.
16. How long can Americans stay in Spain without a visa?
U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period under Schengen rules. To live in Spain long-term, you must apply for a residence visa before arrival. Overstaying can result in fines or future entry restrictions.
17. What happens after my visa is approved by the Spanish Consulate?
You’ll receive a 90-day entry visa. After arrival, you must:
- Register your local address (empadronamiento).
- Attend your fingerprint appointment (cita de huellas).
- Collect your TIE card about 3–4 weeks later.
We guide you through all these steps and ensure your documents are compliant.
18. Can my spouse and children immigrate with me?
Yes. Spouses, children, and dependent parents can apply under Family Reunification or as dependents within the same visa. You’ll need to prove additional income for each family member and provide school enrollment for minors. We help families choose the right schools and manage the documentation for a smooth transition.
19. Do I need private health insurance to immigrate to Spain?
Yes. Private health insurance is mandatory for most visas and must:
- Cover 100% of care in Spain
- Have no copayments or waiting periods
- Be valid for at least one year
We help clients select policies recognized by Spanish consulates and immigration offices.
20. How do you support Americans through the immigration and housing process?
We coordinate every stage of your move:
- Partner law firms handle your immigration legally with the consulate or Spanish authorities.
- Our relocation team manages your housing search, lease, or purchase to match visa requirements.
- We schedule TIE and fingerprint appointments, help with empadronamiento and banking, and ensure full compliance.
Our integrated approach allows Americans to immigrate to Spain safely, legally, and efficiently, avoiding the common pitfalls of separate visa and housing processes.