Can Americans Move to Spain?

Yes, Americans—as well as citizens of many other countries—can move to Spain. The key is determining which visa best fits your individual circumstances. Two of the most common visa options are:

1. Non-Lucrative Visa
   Ideal for retirees or individuals who do not plan or need to work in Spain. This visa allows you to live in Spain without engaging in any paid employment or business activity. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves throughout their stay.
2. Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Work Visa)
   Designed for remote workers and digital nomads, this visa allows you to live in Spain while working for non-Spanish companies. You’ll need to show proof of consistent income and meet other eligibility requirements.

Each visa type has its own criteria, so it’s important to assess your personal situation and choose the option that best aligns with your goals.

Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)

This visa must be applied for before entering Spain, through the nearest Spanish Consulate or Embassy in your home country. The following documents and conditions are required:

Valid Passport

Submit your original passport, valid for at least one year, along with a full photocopy. The passport must contain at least two blank pages for the visa.

Health Insurance

You must present proof of private health insurance from an authorized provider in Spain. The policy should offer coverage equivalent to that of Spain’s public healthcare system, and payments must be handled directly by the insurer (no reimbursement-based plans).

Financial Requirements

You must prove you have the financial means to support yourself without working. The required amount is at least 400% of Spain’s IPREM (Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator), with an additional 100% of IPREM for each family member accompanying you.

Clean Criminal Record

You must provide a criminal background check from your country of residence covering the past five years.

Document Legalization and Translation

Official documents must be apostilled or legalised and translated into Spanish after they have been legalised.

Application Submission

Applications must now be submitted to an official visa processing company contracted for this purpose by the Spanish immigration authority. The decision process may take up to three months.

Visa Fees

A non-refundable visa application fee is required. The amount varies depending on the country from which you’re applying.

Non-Work Undertaking

In some cases, you may be asked to sign a formal declaration before a notary, confirming that you will not engage in any paid work while living in Spain.

Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)

This visa can be applied for while already in Spain—provided you have not exceeded your 90-day visa-free stay (under the Schengen agreement).

In addition to the first five requirements listed above (passport, health insurance, financial proof, clean record, and document translation), applicants must meet the following specific conditions:

Non-EU/EEA Citizenship

You must not be a citizen of the European Union or European Economic Area.

Remote Employment

You must be employed by a company located outside of Spain or be self-employed in a digital or knowledge-based profession (e.g., software development, writing, graphic design).

Stable Income

You’ll need to demonstrate a regular monthly income, typically around €2,200 or more.

Summary

Requirements can vary depending on the consulate or specific case, so it’s best to consult official government websites or seek professional legal advice to ensure a smooth visa application process. Contact us for support navigating the Spanish visa system.