Most frequently asked questions about moving to Spain - 2026 Guide

Moving to Spain is an aspiration for many, but it requires careful planning across legal, financial, and practical areas. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about moving to Spain, helping you understand visas, residency, housing, taxes, healthcare, and everyday life before you relocate.

Whether you are planning a short stay, a long-term move, or a permanent relocation, the questions below reflect what prospective residents most often need to know at the start of their journey.

Legal and residency in Spain

Understanding visa and residency requirements is one of the most important steps when planning a move to Spain. Your nationality, intended length of stay, and whether you plan to work will determine which visa or permit you need.

How long can you stay in Spain without a visa or residency?

If you are from a Schengen visa-exempt country, you can stay in Spain for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without applying for a visa. This applies to tourism, short stays, and non-resident visits.

If you are from a country that requires a visa to enter Spain, you must apply for the appropriate visa before travelling, usually at a Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.

What types of visas are available for moving to Spain?

Spain offers several visa options depending on your situation, including:

• Non-Lucrative Visa – for individuals who will not work in Spain and can demonstrate sufficient financial means
• Work Visa – for those with a confirmed job offer in Spain
• Student Visa – for people enrolled in recognised educational institutions
• Family Reunification Visa – for immediate family members of legal residents

The Golden Visa, which granted residency through property investment, ended in April 2025 and is no longer available.

For a step-by-step overview of requirements, documents, and timelines, see our guide to applying for a visa in Spain.

What is the difference between a visa and a residency permit in Spain?

A visa allows you to enter Spain and stay for a limited period, while a residency permit allows you to live in Spain long term and access additional rights, such as public healthcare and administrative services.

Understanding this distinction is essential when planning a longer stay or permanent relocation.

What types of residency permits exist in Spain?

Spain offers two main residency categories:

• Temporary residency – for stays longer than 90 days and up to five years, usually linked to work, study, or family reunification
• Permanent residency – available after five years of continuous legal residence, with similar rights to Spanish citizens

Can you get Spanish residency by buying a property?

No. Buying property in Spain does not automatically grant residency.

While property ownership can support a visa application (for example, as proof of accommodation), you must still qualify under an appropriate visa route, such as the non-lucrative visa or work visa.

How do you obtain a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)?

You can apply for a NIE either:

• At a Spanish consulate before moving, or
• At a police station or immigration office in Spain

You will need identification, a completed application form, and a valid reason for requesting the NIE (such as buying property, opening a bank account, or applying for residency).

Our guide on how to get a NIE in Spain explains the process in more detail.

How often do you have to renew your residency in Spain?

Temporary residency permits usually require renewal after the first year, then at longer intervals, depending on the permit type.

What can lead to a visa or residency application being denied?

Applications may be refused for reasons such as:

• Insufficient financial means
• Missing or incorrect documentation
• Lack of valid health insurance
• Criminal record issues
• Failure to meet specific visa requirements

If refused, applicants can usually reapply or appeal, depending on the reason.

How long does it take to apply for Spanish citizenship?

In most cases, you can apply for Spanish citizenship after 10 years of legal and continuous residence in Spain. Shorter timeframes may apply in specific situations (for example, two years for citizens of certain countries). You will also need to meet requirements such as language and cultural knowledge tests.

Can you hold dual citizenship if you become a Spanish citizen?

Spain generally requires applicants to renounce their previous nationality, but there are exceptions for citizens of certain countries, including many Latin American countries, as well as Andorra, Portugal, the Philippines, and Equatorial Guinea.

Housing and living in Spain

Once legal and residency requirements are clear, the next step when moving to Spain is deciding where and how to live. Housing options, rental conditions, and popular locations vary significantly by region, lifestyle, and budget.

Can foreigners buy property in Spain?

Yes. Foreigners, including non-EU nationals, can buy property in Spain without restrictions. You do not need to be a resident to purchase a home, although you will need a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) and a Spanish bank account to complete the transaction.

Buying property does not grant residency rights. Property ownership may be used as proof of accommodation when applying for certain visas. If you plan to live in Spain for more than 90 days, you must apply for the appropriate visa or residency permit separately.

How long can you stay in Spain if you own a property?

Owning property in Spain does not affect your length of stay. Non-residents may stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period under Schengen rules.

To stay longer, you must hold a valid visa or residency permit, such as a non-lucrative visa, work visa, or family-based residency.

Where do most foreigners live in Spain?

Foreign residents are spread across Spain, but some areas consistently attract higher international populations:

• Large cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia
• Coastal regions including the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands
• Established residential areas with international communities and good infrastructure

Lifestyle preferences, climate, access to services, and budget all play a role in choosing a location.

Can you rent before buying in Spain?

Yes, and many people do. Renting before buying allows you to understand neighbourhoods, local costs, and day-to-day life before making a long-term commitment.

For many newcomers, renting first is a practical way to settle in and assess whether a location suits their lifestyle and budget before purchasing. Understanding why you should rent before buying a property in Spain can help clarify this decision.

How can you find rental accommodation before moving?

Many people begin their search online and arrange viewings either before or shortly after arriving in Spain. Visiting the area in person is strongly recommended to assess neighbourhoods, transport links, and amenities.

When renting, it is important to review the contract carefully, including length, renewal terms, community fees, and whether utilities are included, as these can vary significantly by region and property type.

Financial and tax considerations

Financial planning is an essential part of moving to Spain. Your tax obligations and financial requirements depend on how long you stay, whether you work, and whether you become a tax resident — all of which can affect visas, budgets, and long-term planning.

How much money do you need to move to Spain?

The amount of money required to move to Spain varies depending on your lifestyle, location, and visa type. For many non-EU nationals, financial requirements are linked to the Non-Lucrative Visa, which uses the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) as a reference.

As of 2026, applicants must generally demonstrate an annual income of at least €28,800 for the main applicant (400% of IPREM). An additional €7,200 per year (100% of IPREM) is required for each dependent. These figures represent minimum legal thresholds rather than realistic living budgets, which vary significantly by region and household size.

Do you have to pay taxes in Spain?

If you spend more than 183 days per year in Spain, you are considered a tax resident and must declare worldwide income.

• Non-residents are taxed only on Spanish-sourced income
• Income tax rates range from 19% to 47%, depending on income

Spain also applies capital gains, wealth, and inheritance taxes, with regional variations. For a more detailed breakdown, see our guide on who needs to pay taxes in Spain.

How do you open a bank account in Spain as a non-resident?

You typically need:

• Passport or ID
• Proof of address
• Proof of income
• NIE (recommended)

Some banks allow remote opening, but visiting a branch can simplify the process.

How do social security contributions work for residents and non-residents in Spain?

Residents working in Spain contribute to social security, covering healthcare, pensions, and other benefits. Spain has agreements with many countries to avoid double contributions.

Healthcare and utilities

Healthcare and essential services are a key consideration when planning a move to Spain. Understanding how the healthcare system works, whether you need private insurance, and how utilities are set up will help you avoid complications after arrival.

Can foreigners get healthcare in Spain?

Yes. Foreigners can access healthcare in Spain, but the type of access depends on residency status and length of stay.

• Residents registered with the social security system can access Spain’s public healthcare.
• Non-residents and new arrivals usually require private health insurance, particularly for visa and residency applications.
• EU citizens can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for short-term stays, but this does not replace full health coverage for long-term residence.

To access public healthcare as a resident, you typically need:

• A residency certificate
• NIE
• Social security number
• Proof of address

Once registered, you receive a health card granting access to public medical services.

What are the costs of private health insurance in Spain?

Private health insurance costs vary depending on age, coverage level, and provider. As a general guide, monthly premiums typically range from €50 to €200 per person.

Private insurance is commonly required for:

• Non-Lucrative Visa applications
• Long-term stays before registering with social security
• Faster access to specialists and shorter waiting times

Policies must usually offer full coverage with no co-payments to meet visa requirements.

How do you set up utilities in Spain?

Setting up utilities in Spain usually involves contacting local providers for:

• Electricity
• Water
• Gas (where applicable)
• Internet and mobile services

To open or transfer utility contracts, you typically need:

• Identification (passport or NIE)
• Proof of address or property contract
• A Spanish bank account for direct debits

If you are renting, some utilities may already be connected, while others may need to be transferred into your name. For step-by-step guidance, see our article on how to set up, connect, and pay utility bills in Spain.

Other practical questions about moving to Spain

Beyond visas, housing, finances, and healthcare, there are several practical questions that often arise when planning a move to Spain. These topics tend to come up later in the research process but are still important to understand in advance.

Can you drive in Spain with your foreign driving licence?

This depends on where your licence was issued.

• EU / EEA licences are valid in Spain without time limits.
• Non-EU licences are usually valid for up to six months after becoming a resident.
• After this period, you must either exchange your licence (if Spain has an agreement with your country) or obtain a Spanish driving licence.

Spain has exchange agreements with several countries, allowing licence holders to swap their licence without taking a driving test, although a medical examination is usually required. For detailed steps, see our guide on exchanging a foreign driving licence in Spain.

What are the rules for bringing pets to Spain?

Bringing pets to Spain is straightforward, provided requirements are met in advance.

Pets entering Spain generally need:

• A microchip
• A valid rabies vaccination
• A health certificate issued by an authorised veterinarian

Pets arriving from non-EU countries may need additional documentation and checks. Advance preparation is essential to avoid delays or quarantine. For a full breakdown of requirements, see our guide to moving to Spain with pets.

By addressing these key questions, you can better prepare for your move to Spain and ensure a smoother transition to life abroad. For more in-depth guidance on each stage of relocation, explore our moving to Spain section.