Moving to Spain from the US is a major decision. The move involves visas, tax rules, healthcare choices, cultural changes and a safe property buying process. Many Americans choose the Costa Blanca because it offers warm weather, low living costs and strong international communities. This guide explains every step with clear instructions and verified entities.
Why Americans Are Moving to Spain
Lifestyle and wellbeing
Spain offers a stable society, low crime levels and a slower pace of life. The Mediterranean climate supports outdoor living. Most coastal towns enjoy more than three hundred days of sun each year. The diet is rich in fresh produce and promotes long term health. The social structure encourages community involvement and regular events.
Cost of living advantages
Spain is more affordable than most US states.
- Groceries are cheaper due to local agriculture.
- Dining out costs less than in major US cities.
- Public transport is low cost and reliable.
- Utilities are moderate.
- Private healthcare is significantly cheaper.
- Rent and home prices remain lower across the Costa Blanca than US coastal markets.
Salary expectations differ but the reduced cost base allows retirees and remote workers to stretch budgets further.
Costa Blanca vs US Cost of Living
| Category | Costa Blanca Average | Major US City Average |
|---|---|---|
| Rent for one bedroom apartment | 700 to 900 euros per month | 1,500 to 2,400 dollars per month |
| Restaurant meal for one | 12 to 18 euros | 20 to 35 dollars |
| Groceries per person per month | 150 to 250 euros | 300 to 450 dollars |
| Private health insurance | 50 to 100 euros per month | 300 to 600 dollars per month |
| Utilities for a small home | 100 to 150 euros per month | 150 to 250 dollars per month |
| Public transport pass | 30 to 40 euros per month | 70 to 100 dollars per month |
Quality of life for expats
Spain welcomes international residents. English is widely used in many coastal towns. Community groups help American expats integrate. Outdoor activities, beaches and local festivals support an active lifestyle. Travel to other European countries is fast and inexpensive.
Visa and Residency Options for US Citizens
Spain requires a long stay visa if you remain in the country for more than ninety days. Several visas suit US citizens.
Visa Options for US Citizens Moving to Spain
| Visa Type | Best For | Income Requirement | Work Allowed | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non Lucrative Visa | Retirees and passive income earners | Around 30,000 euros per year for main applicant plus extra for dependants | No | Path to residency and later citizenship, simple renewals |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote workers and freelancers | Around 2,700 to 3,000 euros per month | Yes | Can access expat tax regime, multi year validity |
| Work Visa | Employees with a Spanish job offer | Salary from employer that meets legal thresholds | Yes | Employer manages much of the application |
| Self Employment Visa | Entrepreneurs and business owners | Proof of funds plus viable business plan | Yes | Permission to run a business in Spain |
| Student Visa | Full time students | Proof of study and sufficient funds | Limited | Residency for study period, time may count towards long term stay |
Non Lucrative Visa
The Non Lucrative Visa suits retirees or applicants who earn passive income. The applicant must show stable annual income. The applicant must have full private health insurance. The applicant must provide an FBI background check and proof of accommodation. The visa offers a path to long term residency and eventual citizenship.
Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa suits remote workers and freelancers. The applicant must earn income from a foreign employer or client. Monthly income must meet the required threshold. The applicant must show experience or a relevant degree. Private health insurance is required. The visa may grant access to the Spanish expat tax regime also known as Beckham Law.
Work Visa
The Work Visa suits applicants with a Spanish job offer. The employer begins the application. The applicant completes the process through the Spanish Consulate in the US.
Self Employment Visa
The Self Employment Visa suits entrepreneurs. The applicant must present a viable business plan and proof of financial means. The applicant must obtain the correct licences.
Student Visa
The Student Visa suits applicants enrolled in full time study for more than ninety days.
ETIAS for short visits
US citizens will need an ETIAS authorisation for short visits from 2026. ETIAS does not replace long stay visas.
Key Residency Entities in Spain
TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)
The TIE is the official residency card issued to non-EU citizens living in Spain.
It serves as proof of legal residency, contains the foreigner identification number (NIE),
and must be renewed according to the visa category.
Empadronamiento (Town Hall Registration)
Empadronamiento is a mandatory registration at the local Ayuntamiento (town hall)
that confirms your address in Spain. It is required for many procedures, including
school enrolment, healthcare access, and some immigration appointments.
Cita Previa (Appointment System)
Spain uses an online appointment system called “cita previa” for immigration
services such as TIE applications, fingerprints, and renewals. Securing a cita previa
is often the first step after arriving in Spain.
Schengen Area Travel Rules
Long-stay visa holders may travel freely within the Schengen Area once their residency
permit is active. Visitors without residency are limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Residency Process Checklist for US Citizens Moving to Spain
| Step | Action | Key Documents Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Choose the correct visa | Select the appropriate long-stay visa (Non-Lucrative, Digital Nomad, Work, Self-Employment, or Student). | Visa application form, passport, photos | Visa type determines your residency pathway and renewal rules. |
| 2. Prepare financial proof | Gather income or savings statements that meet the visa thresholds. | Bank statements, tax returns, employment or contract letters | Amounts vary by visa category (e.g., €30,000 per year for NLV). |
| 3. Obtain supporting documents | Collect background checks, insurance, and accommodation proof. | FBI background check (apostilled), private health insurance, rental or ownership contract | Documents must be apostilled and translated into Spanish where required. |
| 4. Submit application at the Spanish Consulate | Apply at your assigned consulate in the United States. | All visa documents, appointment confirmation, visa fee | Consulates handle only applicants within their designated jurisdiction. |
| 5. Enter Spain with your approved visa | Travel to Spain within the validity period of the issued visa. | Passport with visa | Your visa typically permits entry once; residency steps follow inside Spain. |
| 6. Apply for the TIE residency card | Book a cita previa (appointment) and complete fingerprints at the local immigration office. | Passport, visa, empadronamiento certificate, EX-17 form, photos | The TIE is your physical residency card and must be renewed according to visa rules. |
| 7. Register with the local town hall | Complete the empadronamiento process to register your address. | Rental contract or ownership deed, passport, utility bill (if required) | Needed for many administrative tasks including healthcare and school enrolment. |
| 8. Activate healthcare access | Use private health insurance or register for public healthcare when eligible. | Insurance policy, social security number (if applicable) | Non-Lucrative and Digital Nomad applicants typically start with private insurance. |
| 9. Renew residency when due | Track renewal dates and prepare updated financial proof. | Bank statements, insurance, renewal application | Most first-year visas renew for 2 years, then again for longer stays. |
| 10. Apply for long-term residency | After 5 years of legal residency, apply for long-term (permanent) residency. | TIE renewals, continuous residency evidence | Citizenship requires 10 years of residency for most applicants. |
Residency Process Timeline for US Citizens Moving to Spain
Step 1. Choose your long-stay visa
Choose whether the Non-Lucrative Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Work Visa, Self-Employment Visa or Student Visa best matches your plans.
Step 2. Prepare financial and supporting evidence
Gather bank statements, income proof, tax returns, FBI background check, private health insurance and accommodation details.
Step 3. Submit your visa application at the Spanish Consulate
Apply at the correct Spanish Consulate in the United States with all required documents and pay the visa fee.
Step 4. Travel to Spain with your approved visa
Enter Spain within the validity period printed on your visa and begin the in-country residency process.
Step 5. Book a cita previa for your TIE residency card
Use the online cita previa system to secure your appointment for fingerprints and document submission.
Step 6. Complete your empadronamiento at the town hall
Register your address at the local Ayuntamiento. The padrón certificate is required for residency and healthcare steps.
Step 7. Collect your TIE residency card
Return to the immigration office to collect your TIE. Keep it safe as proof of your legal residency in Spain.
Step 8. Set up healthcare and essential services
Activate healthcare, open a bank account, and organise utilities and home services at your new address.
Step 9. Track visa and TIE renewal dates
Prepare renewal documentation early to avoid gaps in legal residency.
Step 10. Progress to long-term residency
After 5 years of continuous residency, apply for long-term residency. Citizenship often becomes available after 10 years.
Tax, Finance and Legal Considerations for Americans
Moving to Spain requires an understanding of tax residency rules, US reporting obligations and Spanish law. Because individual circumstances vary, applicants should consult qualified professionals such as tax advisors, cross-border accountants, immigration lawyers and financial planners before making decisions.
For authoritative guidance, US citizens may need to liaise with entities such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the US Department of the Treasury (for FATCA and FBAR), and specialist advisers registered with bodies like the AICPA (American Institute of CPAs).
In Spain, official information is published by the Agencia Tributaria (Spanish Tax Agency), regional Hacienda offices, and licensed legal professionals known as abogados and gestores administrativos.
Tax residency in Spain
An applicant becomes a Spanish tax resident after spending more than 183 days per calendar year in Spain. A resident may also be defined through economic ties. Spanish residents are taxed on worldwide income and must comply with the rules set by the Agencia Tributaria.
US tax obligations
- US citizens must continue filing annual returns with the IRS.
- The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) may reduce taxable income for eligible individuals.
- FATCA and FBAR rules require reporting of foreign bank accounts above thresholds to the Department of the Treasury.
- The United States and Spain maintain a Social Security Totalization Agreement for certain employment cases.
Spanish tax system
- Residents may pay income tax known as IRPF (Impuesto sobre la Renta de las Personas Físicas).
- Wealth tax may apply depending on region and asset level.
- The Modelo 720 form requires reporting of foreign-held assets for certain residents.
- Capital gains tax applies to the sale of property and certain other assets.
For personalised advice, applicants should consult a certified US–Spain cross-border tax specialist, a Spanish tax lawyer (abogado fiscalista), or a
gestor administrativo who is licensed to manage filings with the Agencia Tributaria. Cross-border tax compliance is complex, and professional guidance reduces the risk of penalties or incorrect filings.
Tax Responsibilities for US Citizens Living in Spain
| Tax Type | US Citizen Obligation | Spain Resident Obligation |
|---|---|---|
| Income tax | File annual return with IRS on worldwide income | Pay IRPF on worldwide income if tax resident |
| Foreign bank reporting | FBAR and FATCA reporting above thresholds | May also need Modelo 720 if Spanish resident |
| Wealth tax | None at federal level | May apply according to region and asset level |
| Capital gains | IRS taxes gains on asset sales | Spain taxes gains at set rates on asset sales |
| Social security | May continue US contributions in some cases | Contributions to Spanish system if working in Spain |
Property taxes for buyers
- IBI council tax on property ownership.
- Transfer tax known as ITP on resale properties.
- AJD tax on new builds and mortgages.
- Plusvalia tax that some municipalities apply on property transfers.
Banking and currency
Opening a Spanish bank account is required for most transactions. Money transfers from USD to EUR may save costs when using FX brokers. Large transfers should follow compliance rules in both countries.
Best Places to Live in Spain for Americans
Why the Costa Blanca stands out
The Costa Blanca offers warm weather, coastal towns and strong international communities. Property prices remain accessible. Healthcare is modern and reliable. The region forms part of the Valencian Community and Alicante Province. The Marina Baixa area is popular for expats. Alicante Elche Airport connects the region to many European cities.
Costa Blanca North and Costa Blanca South
The north offers scenic hillsides and traditional towns. The south offers flat landscapes, beaches and modern developments. Both areas provide English speaking services and solid infrastructure.
Towns popular with US expats
- Altea is known for sea views and a historic old town.
- Calpe offers beaches, modern apartments and daily amenities.
- Villajoyosa provides authentic Spanish living with colourful houses.
- Benidorm offers strong infrastructure and year round services.
- Jávea attracts families and remote workers due to schools and community networks.
- Moraira offers an upmarket environment with marinas and quiet neighbourhoods.
Costa Blanca Towns for American Buyers
| Town | Lifestyle | Price Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altea | Scenic and traditional with a historic old town | Medium | Retirees, artists and slow paced living |
| Calpe | Beach resort with services and apartment blocks | Medium | Couples and part time residents |
| Villajoyosa | Authentic Spanish town with colourful seafront | Medium to low | Families and buyers seeking local life |
| Benidorm | Busy city style resort with strong services | Medium | Year round living and easy access to hospitals and transport |
| Jávea | International community with schools and coves | Medium to high | Remote workers and families |
| Moraira | Upmarket coastal village with villas and marina | High | Luxury and lifestyle buyers |
Schools and education on the Costa Blanca
Families moving from the US often want clear options for schooling. The Costa Blanca offers public, concertado and private international schools.
School Types, Descriptions and Typical Costs
| School Type | Description | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Public school | Spanish language, funded by the state, local catchment areas | Free, families pay for books and some materials |
| Concertado school | Partly funded by the state with some private support | Low monthly fees compared with private schools |
| Private international school | Often taught in English or bilingual with international curricula | Around 6,000 to 12,000 euros per year per child |
Renting vs Buying in Spain
Renting
Renting gives flexibility for new arrivals. It allows time to learn each town before buying. Some landlords request additional guarantees from foreigners. Rental contracts follow Spanish rental law known as LAU.
Buying
Buying offers long term stability. Spain allows Americans to own property without restrictions. The cost per square metre remains competitive compared to the US. Buyers benefit from a transparent legal process when supported by independent professionals.
Costa Blanca Towns for American Buyers
| Town | Lifestyle | Price Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altea | Scenic and traditional with a historic old town | Medium | Retirees, artists and slow paced living |
| Calpe | Beach resort with services and apartment blocks | Medium | Couples and part time residents |
| Villajoyosa | Authentic Spanish town with colourful seafront | Medium to low | Families and buyers seeking local life |
| Benidorm | Busy city style resort with strong services | Medium | Year round living and easy access to hospitals and transport |
| Jávea | International community with schools and coves | Medium to high | Remote workers and families |
| Moraira | Upmarket coastal village with villas and marina | High | Luxury and lifestyle buyers |
How to Buy Property in Spain as an American
Step 1. Obtain your NIE
The NIE is required for tax payments, utilities and property purchases.
Step 2. Choose the right area
Lifestyle needs guide the choice between coastal, hillside or village living. Schooling, healthcare access and transport may influence the decision.
Step 3. Start your property search
A buyer reviews villas, apartments, townhouses or new builds. A buyer defines budget and location. An exclusive buyer’s agent provides conflict free advice and filters properties that match the brief.
Spanish mortgage options for American buyers
Some American buyers use a Spanish mortgage to finance part of the purchase. The main options and typical conditions are shown below.
Mortgage Options for American Buyers in Spain
| Mortgage Type | Loan to Value | Typical Interest Rate Range | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non resident mortgage | Around 60 to 70 percent of property value | Around 3 to 5 percent depending on bank and profile | Proof of income, tax returns, credit history, property valuation |
| Resident mortgage | Around 70 to 80 percent of property value | Around 2.5 to 4 percent | Spanish residency, income proof, local banking history |
Step 4. Complete due diligence
Due diligence protects the buyer. Checks include property ownership, debts, liens, planning status, boundaries, licences and community fees. New builds require verification of legal guarantees and builder compliance.
Step 5. Negotiate the offer
A buyer’s agent manages negotiation. The goal is a secure price and clear contractual terms that reflect the interests of the buyer.
Step 6. Sign contracts and complete the purchase
The process includes a reservation agreement. The process includes a private purchase contract known as Contrato de Arras. Final signing occurs before a Spanish Notary. Registration takes place at the Land Registry so the buyer appears as the legal owner.
Typical Property Purchase Costs in Spain
| Cost Type | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Transfer tax on resale property. ITP | 8 to 10 percent of purchase price depending on region |
| Stamp duty on new build and mortgages. AJD | 1 to 1.5 percent of purchase price |
| Notary fees | 600 to 1000 euros |
| Land Registry fees | 400 to 900 euros |
| Legal fees | Around 1 to 1.5 percent of purchase price |
| Buyer agent fee | Fixed fee or percentage depending on service model, or no-fee |
| Mortgage arrangement costs | 500 to 1000 euros plus valuation |
Step 7. After sales support
After sales support includes setting up utilities, arranging insurance, updating bank accounts and registering with local authorities. Some buyers require help with tradespeople, furniture and home services.
Healthcare in Spain for American Expats
Spain offers strong public and private healthcare. Residents gain access to the public system after meeting residency requirements. Private coverage is affordable and provides short waiting times. The Costa Blanca includes modern hospitals such as IMED and Quiron. Prescription prices remain lower than in the US.
Public and Private Healthcare in Spain
| Category | Public System | Private System |
|---|---|---|
| Access requirements | Legal residency and registration with social security | Private insurance policy |
| Monthly cost | Low or none at point of use | Around 50 to 100 euros per month per adult |
| Waiting times | Can be longer for non urgent care | Generally shorter for specialists and tests |
| Coverage quality | High quality care and modern hospitals | High quality care with more choice and comfort |
| Best suited for | Residents who want low cost universal cover | Residents who prefer speed and flexibility |
Everyday Life and Integration
Learning basic Spanish helps with daily tasks. Some regions also use Valencian.
Driving rules follow DGT regulations. American licences may require validation or exchange depending on policy changes.
Driving in Spain With a US Licence
| Requirement | Rule |
|---|---|
| Use of US licence | Often valid for a limited period after arrival, commonly up to six months of residency |
| After the initial period | Spanish licence is required to continue driving legally |
| Direct exchange | Spain does not offer a general licence exchange for all US states |
| Driving test | Many Americans need to sit the Spanish theory and practical tests |
| Authority in charge | DGT. Dirección General de Tráfico |
Moving Logistics for Americans
Many buyers ship belongings using international freight services. Items may travel by sea or air. Pets must meet European vaccination and microchip rules. Alicante Elche Airport offers flights to major European cities. Temporary accommodation helps new arrivals settle before buying a home.
Why Use an API Licensed Buyer’s Agent
An API licensed agent follows Spanish professional standards. A buyer’s agent represents only the buyer and avoids conflicts of interest. The agent manages searches, due diligence, legal coordination and support throughout the process. Villas al Sol operates as an exclusive buyer’s agent on the Costa Blanca. The service protects overseas buyers and simplifies relocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Americans retire in Spain?
Yes. Most retirees apply for the Non Lucrative Visa and show stable income plus health insurance.
Is Spain safe for US expats?
Yes. Spain records lower crime rates than the US and offers strong public services.
Can I download a PDF version of this guide?
Yes. You can download a PDF version of the Moving to Spain from the US guide for offline reading or sharing.
Download the PDF guide.
Can Americans buy property in Spain?
Yes. Spain allows full ownership for US citizens with no special restrictions.
How long can Americans stay without a visa?
Americans can stay up to ninety days within one hundred eighty days under Schengen rules.
What is the cheapest place to live in Spain?
Many towns on the Costa Blanca remain more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona while still offering quality services and good infrastructure.
Start Your Move to Spain With Confidence
Moving to Spain from the US becomes simple with clear guidance and a secure buying process. Villas al Sol provides independent, licensed and transparent support for buyers on the Costa Blanca. The service covers visas, town selection, property searches, due diligence and after sales steps.
Contact Villas al Sol to begin your relocation with clarity and confidence.
