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Moving to Spain – A Guide for Digital Nomads
Moving to Spain is a dream for many, and it’s easy to see why. From its rich culture and stunning landscapes to its delicious food and laid-back lifestyle, Spain has something for everyone. Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking beautiful surroundings to work from, or an immigrant ready for a fresh start, Spain offers the perfect backdrop.
As you plan your move, sending money to Spain doesn’t have to be a hassle. Ria makes it simple, fast, and secure, so you can focus on getting settled.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about relocating to Spain—from the paperwork to the settling-in process. Let’s get started!
Things to Do Before Moving to Spain
Get the Right Visa
Before booking your one-way ticket, make sure you have the appropriate visa. Spain offers several visa options depending on your situation, including:
1. Digital Nomad Visa
Spain recently launched its Digital Nomad Visa, a game-changer for remote workers. This visa is part of Spain’s Startup Act and was designed to attract international talent, particularly freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees working for non-Spanish companies.
Who it’s for:
Remote workers employed by a company based outside Spain.
Freelancers or self-employed individuals with international clients.
Entrepreneurs with a tech-based or innovative business idea.
Key requirements:
Proof of working remotely for at least 3 months prior to applying.
Your employer or clients must be outside of Spain.
You’ll need to prove at least €2,160/month in income (or more if bringing family).
Proof of qualifications or relevant work experience (usually a degree or 3+ years of work experience).
Clean criminal background check and proof of health insurance.
Validity:
Initially valid for 1 year, with the possibility to renew for up to 5 years total.
Perks:
Faster processing times.
Access to a special tax regime (Beckham Law), which can offer tax benefits for foreign workers.
2. Work Visa
If you’ve landed a job offer from a company in Spain, you’ll need a Work Visa to live and work legally in the country.
Who it’s for:
Foreign nationals who have secured a job contract with a Spanish employer.
Key requirements:
A formal employment contract from a Spanish company.
The employer must demonstrate that the position couldn’t be filled by someone already living in Spain or the EU.
Application typically involves both the employer (applying on your behalf within Spain) and you (applying at a Spanish consulate in your home country).
Types of work visas include:
Employee Visa (Tipo D): For salaried workers.
Highly Skilled Professional Visa: For specialized roles in science, technology, finance, etc.
Seasonal Work Visa: For temporary jobs in agriculture, tourism, etc.
Validity:
Usually granted for 1 year, renewable annually as long as employment continues.
3. Student Visa
Planning to attend university, enroll in a Spanish language course, or participate in a study program? A Student Visa allows you to live in Spain for the duration of your academic program.
Who it’s for:
International students accepted into a recognized educational institution in Spain.
Key requirements:
Letter of admission from a Spanish school, college, or university.
Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
Health insurance coverage (public or private).
Clean criminal record.
Work permissions:
You’re allowed to work up to 30 hours per week while studying, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your coursework.
Validity:
Typically matches the duration of your academic program (often 1 year, renewable).
4. Non-Lucrative Visa
This visa is ideal for retirees, long-term travelers, or individuals with passive income who want to live in Spain without working.
Who it’s for:
Individuals who can financially support themselves without needing to work while in Spain.
Often used by retirees or people living off investments, pensions, or rental income.
Key requirements:
Proof of sufficient financial means: around €2,400/month for the applicant, plus additional funds for dependents.
Comprehensive private health insurance.
Background check and medical certificate.
Proof of accommodation in Spain.
Restrictions:
You cannot work or engage in any paid activity in Spain with this visa.
Validity:
Initially valid for 1 year, then renewable for 2 years at a time.
After 5 years of residency, you can apply for permanent residency.
Consider Learning Some Spanish
While many Spaniards speak English in large cities and tourist hotspots, knowing basic Spanish will make your transition much smoother. Simple phrases can help you interact with locals, whether you’re shopping at a mercado or ordering tapas at a restaurant. Apps like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone are great starting points.
Ensure You’re Financially Prepared
Moving to Spain requires some financial planning. Besides travel expenses and visa fees, you’ll need to budget for initial accommodation, transportation, and living costs for at least a few months. Spain uses the Euro (€), so familiarize yourself with exchange rates and consider setting up an international bank account to manage your finances.
What is NIE and Why Do You Need It?
If you’re planning to live in Spain for more than a few months, one of the very first things you’ll need to get is your NIE – Número de Identidad de Extranjero, or Foreigner Identification Number. Think of it as your official ID in Spain — it’s essential for almost everything.
What is the NIE?
The NIE is a unique number assigned to non-Spanish residents by the Spanish government. It’s used to identify you in all official matters, including taxes, employment, banking, property, and healthcare.
When and Why You Need It
You’ll need an NIE for just about any legal or financial activity in Spain, including:
Opening a bank account
Signing a rental contract or buying property
Starting a job
Registering with social security (Seguridad Social)
Paying taxes
Setting up utilities (like internet and electricity)
Even students and digital nomads need an NIE if they’re staying longer than 90 days.
How to Apply for an NIE
You can apply for an NIE in Spain or through a Spanish consulate in your home country. The process is fairly straightforward, but it does require an appointment and some paperwork.
Steps to apply in Spain:
Book an appointment at your nearest immigration office or police station through the Cita Previa website.
Fill out the EX-15 form, which is the application for the NIE.
Pay a small fee (around €10–€15) via the Modelo 790 form.
Bring your passport, visa (if applicable), proof of your reason for staying (e.g., job offer, study admission, lease agreement), and a photocopy of all documents.
Attend your appointment and submit everything. In some regions, your NIE may be issued the same day, while others may take a few days or weeks.
Applying from abroad:
Contact the nearest Spanish consulate in your country. The process is similar but may vary slightly depending on the consulate’s policies.
NIE vs. TIE – What’s the Difference?
While the NIE is your identification number, the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the physical residence card that proves your legal stay in Spain. If you’re staying longer than 90 days, you’ll likely need both — the NIE for identification and the TIE as proof of residency.
First Things to Do Once in Spain
How to Find a Place to Stay in Spain
If you don’t have long-term accommodation lined up, start with short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Once in Spain, you can explore local options for long-term rentals through websites like Idealista or Fotocasa. It’s common for landlords to require a deposit equivalent to one or two months’ rent and proof of income.
Set Up Your Finances
Opening a Spanish bank account is highly recommended. Banks like Santander, BBVA, or CaixaBank cater to non-residents, and the process is straightforward with the right documentation (passport, proof of address, and visa). A local account will also make it easier to pay rent, utilities, and other daily expenses.
How to Find Work in Spain
If you don’t have a job lined up, there are several resources to help your job search. Use platforms like LinkedIn, InfoJobs, or Indeed Spain, and consider networking within expat communities and local coworking spaces.
Connect With Fellow Expats and Digital Nomads
Spain has thriving expat communities in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia. Join social media groups, attend events via Meetup, or work at shared spaces like Aticco or Impact Hub. These networks are invaluable for building friendships and exchanging advice.
How Does Healthcare Work in Spain?
Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. The public healthcare system, funded through taxes, provides free or low-cost medical services to residents. Expats with work or residency visas can usually access public healthcare, while private insurance options are available for additional coverage or quicker access to specialists. Top private plans are offered by companies like Cigna, Sanitas or MAPFRE.
Best Cities for Expats and Digital Nomads in Spain
A cultural hub with stunning architecture, beaches, and a lively digital nomad scene. International coworking spaces and rich historical attractions make it a favorite among remote workers.
Spain’s capital is a bustling city with endless cultural opportunities, professional networking events, and a central location that makes travel to other parts of Spain a breeze.
Known for its stunning beaches, amazing paella, and a slower pace of life compared to Madrid or Barcelona. It’s a perfect balance of city life and relaxation.
A coastal city on the Costa del Sol, Malaga is great for those seeking warm weather, a low cost of living, and a historic charm.
For a truly Spanish experience, Seville offers breathtaking architecture, world-famous festivals like Feria de Abril, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Spain
What’s the Currency in Spain?
Spain uses the Euro (€). You can easily exchange money or withdraw Euros at ATMs across the country.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Spain?
Costs vary depending on your lifestyle and location. Expect to spend between €2,000–€8,000 when factoring in visa fees, flights, initial accommodation, and transportation.
What’s the Cost of Living in Spain?
Spain’s cost of living is generally lower than many other European countries. Monthly expenses for a single person range between €800 and €1,500, depending on the city and lifestyle.
It’s useful to know about the Salario Mínimo Interprofesional (SMI): Spain’s national minimum wage—the lowest legal salary an employer can pay a worker. It’s set by the Spanish government each year and applies to all professions and sectors, regardless of industry or job type.
For 2025, the minimum wage (SMI) in Spain has been set at €1,184 gross per month over 14 payments, which amounts to €16,576 gross annually.
Key points about the SMI:
It applies to all employees, including domestic workers and agricultural laborers.
It is updated annually based on inflation, economic growth, and employment conditions.
Employers cannot legally pay below the SMI, even if both parties agree to a lower wage.
Does Spain Offer Digital Nomad Visas?
Yes! Spain’s digital nomad visa allows remote workers to stay in the country legally while working for foreign employers or clients.
What Are Taxes Like in Spain?
Non-residents are taxed on income earned within Spain, while residents are taxed on their worldwide income. Tax rates range from 19% to 47%, depending on income brackets.
How Can I Become a Spanish Citizen?
To apply for Spanish citizenship through residency, you must live in Spain legally for 10 years. This period is reduced for citizens of specific countries and those married to Spaniards.
Is Spain Safe?
Spain is considered very safe, with low crime rates compared to many other countries. Standard precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings, should still be observed.
Make the Move to Spain
Moving to Spain is an exciting opportunity to explore a new culture, immerse yourself in a vibrant community, and enjoy a top-quality lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn by the career opportunities, beautiful cities, or relaxed Mediterranean way of life, Spain has something for everyone.
Start planning today and make your dream of living in Spain a reality—and when it’s time to send money, count on Ria for fast, secure, and convenient transfers to Spain.
About the author
Gabriela Solis
Gabriela Solis is Ria's Senior Content Writer. Located in Querétaro, México, she focuses on telling stories that show the myriad human faces of remittances.
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