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The most common visas American expats qualify for in relocation to Spain include the non-lucrative visa, the work visa, the digital nomad visa, the student visa, or the entrepreneur visa. Most long-term visas require background checks and proof of sufficient health insurance.
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Are you a United States citizen hoping to move to Spain? Are you trying to find out what visa to get or how Spain’s healthcare system works?
This article will outline each of the common visas Americans can get for their move to Spain. We’ll explain what qualifies expats for each type of visa, outline the application process, detail Spain’s health insurance requirements, and explain how to fulfill those mandates best.
Types of Visas for Americans Moving to Spain
Some of the most common visas Americans can secure for their move to Spain include a non-lucrative residence visa, a work visa, a digital nomad visa, a student visa, and an entrepreneur visa.
Non-Lucrative Residence Visa for US Expats in Spain
A non-lucrative residence visa allows Americans to live in Spain without working as long as he or she can prove sufficient financial means. A spouse or partner, as well as dependent children and relatives, may also obtain a non-lucrative residence visa.
The Spain non-lucrative visa, sometimes also called a non-working visa, was made to attract expats with financial means to move to Spain long-term. This may include retirees or individuals with passive income.
To qualify for a non-lucrative residence visa, you must make €28,800 (USD $33,993.13) per year, or about €2,400 (USD $2832.76) per month. Any dependents under the main applicant must have proof of means for €7,200 (USD $8,498.28) annually, or about €600 (USD $708.19) per month.
To get a non-lucrative residence visa, make sure you have completed or gathered the following documents:
- A national visa application form for each person applying
- A non-working residence visa application form
- A passport-style photo
- An unexpired, valid passport
- Proof of residence in the consular district
- Proof of financial means, with the minimum being equivalent to 400% of Spain’s Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (and 100% added for each additional family member)
- For those of working age, proof of a pension, proof of termination from your employer, or a notarized affidavit that you will not work while living in Spain
- A criminal record certificate issued by the native country within the last five years
- A background check that has been verified through fingerprint comparison
- A medical certificate that indicates that the applicant does not suffer from a disease that may cause serious issues in Spain, according to specifications in the 2005 International Health Regulations
- Proof of health insurance that meets regulations
Expats must also show proof of private or public insurance that meets requirements.
Those applying for a non-lucrative resident visa must not have any loans or mortgages in the United States. When applicants are ready, they can pay for their residence permit at the Consular Office with a money order only or online.
A non-lucrative visa is valid for one year. Americans who want to renew their visa can apply for renewal for an additional two years and again for another two years after that. After five years, American expats still living in Spain may apply for permanent residence.
Work Visa for US Expats in Spain
A work visa allows American expats in Spain to either work temporarily in Spain through a work contract, through jobs like seasonal work, or it allows US workers who plan to stay for more than 90 days to work long term in Spain.
US expats who receive a job offer to work in Spain will have to wait for their employer to apply for and then receive a work permit from the Ministry of Labor on their behalf before applying for a work visa. This can take up to eight months.
Spain prioritizes employing EU citizens, so receiving a work visa to Spain as a US expat can be difficult. As part of an employer’s work permit, they must prove that they could not find a suitable EU candidate. Additionally, the job must fall under Spain’s shortage occupation list.
The following are required for Americans seeking a long-term work visa in Spain:
- A national visa application form
- A passport-style photo
- An unexpired, valid passport with a minimum validity of four months
- A completed 790-052 form
- A completed EX-09 form
- Proof of residence in the consular district
- Proof of Spanish employment that meets specifications, outlined below
- A criminal record certificate issued by the native country, issued in the last three months
- A medical certificate that indicates that the applicant does not suffer from a disease that may cause serious issues in Spain, according to specifications in the 2005 International Health Regulations
- Proof of identity
Some types of work allowed through a Spanish visa include:
- Technicians or scientists
- Teachers, technicians, researchers, or scientists hired by a university
- Staff from Spanish-recognized renowned institutions
- Civil or military officials performing cooperative agreements
- Journalists or media specialists from outlets accredited by Spain
- Spanish-authorized scientific groups performing international research
- Religious ministers and the Church hierarchy recognized by Spain
Applicants will pay for their visa at the time they submit their application.
Digital Nomad Visa for US Expats in Spain
A digital nomad visa allows US expats to live in Spain while working for a company outside Spain or while being self-employed. American applicants who are self-employed can also work for a company in Spain if their income does not exceed 20% of the total professional income.
To qualify as a digital nomad, applicants must have an undergraduate degree or higher from a university or at least three years of work experience in their field. A spouse or unmarried partner, as well as dependent children or relatives, can also receive a digital nomad visa.
Americans hoping to live in Spain with a digital nomad visa must prove sufficient financial means to support themselves: as of 2025, the individual income requirement is about €2,762 (USD $3,260.58) per month.
Please note that all US citizens applying for a digital nomad visa must first apply for an NIE number before applying for their visa. The digital nomad visa is valid for 12 months, but American expats can renew the visa for up to five years.
To apply for a digital nomad visa, gather and complete the following:
- A national visa application form
- A passport-style photo
- An unexpired passport with a minimum validity of at least one year
- A criminal record certificate
- Proof of residence in the consular district
- Proof of identity
- Proof of health insurance that meets regulations
- Proof that you have worked for at least three months for a foreign company for at least three months before the application
- A certificate from the Government Companies House, which verifies the creation of the company that employs the applicant
Applicants may pay their visa fee at the time they submit their application.
Student Visa for US Expats in Spain
Americans coming to Spain for more than 90 days for studies, training, volunteer work, or internships may obtain a student visa. Spouses and civil partners, as well as minor-aged children or those with disabilities, may also obtain a student visa.
To qualify for a student visa, the applicant must come to Spain to do one or more of the following:
- Full-time studies (at least 20 hours a week) at an accredited school to receive either a diploma, certificate, or degree
- Doctoral studies
- Exchange programs through an accredited secondary school
- Internships
- Volunteer services
- “Au pair” programs
- Teaching assistantships
Once you’re ready to apply for your student visa, ensure that you have the following:
- A national visa application form
- A passport-style photo
- An unexpired passport with validity for the duration of your studies
- Proof of acceptance for study
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of health insurance
- Criminal record certificate
- A medical certificate that indicates that the applicant does not suffer from a disease that may cause serious issues in Spain, according to specifications in the 2005 International Health Regulations
- Proof of residence in the consular district
- Proof of identity
- Authorization of legal representatives for minors
The minimum amount a student must prove to make to get a student visa in Spain is equivalent to 100% of IPREM. In 2025, that is about USD $700 per month, and those with one family member applying with them must have an additional 75%. Each family member requires an increased income of 50%.
Applicants seeking a student visa in Spain will pay their fee at their visa appointment using a money order only.
Entrepreneur Visa for US Expats in Spain
An entrepreneur visa allows US entrepreneurs, their spouse or unmarried partner, or their dependents to move to Spain to continue their business endeavors. These ventures must demonstrate a high likelihood of positively impacting the Spanish economy, whether through new jobs or new technologies.
One of the benefits of moving to Spain with an entrepreneur visa is its longevity: an American residing in Spain with an entrepreneur visa typically has three years before he or she must renew.
To get your entrepreneur visa in Spain, gather the following:
- A national visa application
- A passport-style photo
- An unexpired passport with validity for at least one year
- A positive report from the ENISA on your entrepreneurial project
- Proof of financial means
- Criminal record certificate no older than six months
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of residence in the consular district
- Proof of identity
Applicants must pay their visa fee at the time of their application.
Health Insurance Requirements for Long-Term Visas in Spain
Comprehensive health insurance is a common requirement for most long-term expat visas in Spain. US citizens should note that travel insurance with medical coverage is not accepted and does not meet Spain’s regulations. Health insurance requirements for expats in Spain include:
- Coverage of at least €30,000.
- Validity across Spain and the entire Schengen zone
- Comprehensive coverage, including emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Coverage with no copay or deductible
- Coverage for one year
Why International Health Insurance is Best for US Expats in Spain
Basic private medical insurance often covers the costs of simple care, but it likely doesn’t meet Spain’s expat requirements. Since your US insurance won’t cover you in Spain, we suggest purchasing international health insurance to ensure you receive high-quality care across Spain and worldwide.
Some of the benefits often included with international health insurance include:
- Worldwide coverage
- Inpatient and day patient care
- Cancer care
- Mental health care
- Emergency ambulatory services and ER care
- Palliative care
- Home nursing
- Lab work and testing
- Prescription medications
- Emergency dental care
- Rehabilitation
- Medical evacuation coverage
International health insurance allows American expats to access Spain’s top-tier facilities, enjoy shorter wait times, and find greater flexibility in providers. Expats who choose international insurance can make bespoke plans, with flexible, personalized riders beyond standard benefits.
To find a customized plan that fits your budget and health needs, speak to our expert insurance advisors today as you prepare for your move to Spain. Alternatively, read through our expert list of the 10 best insurance providers for expats in Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spain or the United States cheaper to live in?
Spain has a significantly lower cost of living than the United States. You can learn more about Spain’s cost of living in Pacific Prime’s extensive guide. While most take-home pay in Spain is lower than comparable jobs in the US, the lower cost of living makes it worth the move.
Where should American expats live in Spain?
American expats living in Spain favor a variety of venues depending on lifestyle and budget, but Andalusia, Barcelona, and Valencia are all popular expat destinations.
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
US citizens can stay in Spain for 90 days every 180 days without a visa, but expats who plan to stay in the country long term should get the appropriate visa. Plan ahead, as some visas are known to have long waiting periods for approval.
Conclusion
Pacific Prime is here to make your move to Spain simple. Check out our article on the 15 best cities for expats in Spain and our guide to finding a job in Spain. You may also like our articles on Spain healthcare for expats or on the best Spain cities specifically for remote workers.
Experts at Pacific Prime can also simplify your move by helping you find health insurance that meets visa requirements and that fits your needs. With over 25 years in the industry, our brokers can leverage their expertise and relationships with top providers to help you find the best plan.
Visit our free quote page or talk directly with a professional broker at Pacific Prime to get started.
Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content – no matter how complex the subject is.
Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.
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