Choosing the right Spanish visa, explained in plain English.
Retiring on the coast, working remotely from Valencia, studying in Barcelona, or joining your spouse? Pick your route below to see how it works and download a free document checklist for U.S. applicants.
Which visa is right for you?
Find your situation, then open that route's page for the details and your free checklist.
Moving for a job with a Spanish company, starting a business or doing research? Book a consultation and we'll point you to the right route.
Five ways to move to Spain from the U.S.
Each route has its own page covering who it's for, what you'll need and a free downloadable document checklist.
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
For retirees and financially independent people who want to live in Spain without working.
Digital Nomad (Telework) Visa
For remote employees, freelancers and business owners whose employers or clients are mainly outside Spain.
Student Visa
For studies, training, language courses or internships in Spain lasting more than 90 days.
Spouse of an EU Citizen
For spouses of EU or EEA citizens (other than Spanish nationals) who live in, or are moving to, Spain.
Spouse of a Spanish Citizen
For spouses of Spanish nationals. This route follows its own rules, which differ from the EU spouse route.
Health insurance is a key part of most visa applications
Most long-stay routes, including the Non-Lucrative, Digital Nomad and Student visas, require health insurance that covers you throughout Spain. Requirements differ by route and consulate, so choose a policy that meets the rules for yours.
- Proof of comprehensive private health insurance from an insurer authorized in Spain
- On many routes, a medical certificate confirming you have no diseases with serious public-health implications
- Coverage that still satisfies immigration rules when you renew
A paid route into public healthcare after one year
Residents who have lived legally in Spain for at least one year, and aren't otherwise entitled to public healthcare, may be able to join the Convenio Especial for a monthly fee.
It covers healthcare only, with no pension or other Social Security benefits, and each partner must qualify and pay separately. Many expats keep private insurance too, for faster specialist access and English speaking doctors.
Finding a good Spain immigration lawyer is vital
Sound advice from a skilled Spanish immigration lawyer can mean the difference between a smooth process and a frustrating ordeal. The real challenge is finding one who understands the nuances of your case and speaks fluent English.
Book a consultation with GuiriGuru and we will connect you with the Spanish immigration lawyer who best fits your case. We also help with translation, from scheduling appointments and translating documents to live in-person or conference call interpreting.
Spain immigration articles
New articles in our Spain Immigration Tips series appear here automatically as soon as we publish them.
You should not have to decode Spanish immigration law alone.
We connect you with the right lawyer, and translate the whole way through.
Ready to choose your visa and get moving?
Pick your route and download its free checklist, or tell us your situation and we'll point you to the right route, the right lawyer and the health insurance your consulate will accept.