Emigrating to Spain

Main Ways of Emigration

Non-Lucrative Visa (Residence Permit Without Work Rights)

The Non-Lucrative Visa is a residency permit for individuals who want to live in Spain without engaging in any professional or business activities. It is ideal for retirees, remote workers with sufficient passive income, or individuals looking to experience life in Spain without employment obligations.

Requirements for Obtaining a Non-Lucrative Visa

To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Sufficient Financial Means: Proof of stable income or savings to support living expenses without working in Spain. The required amount is based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) and is updated annually. As a general rule:
  • The main applicant must prove a monthly income of at least 400% of IPREM.
  • Each additional family member requires an additional 100% of IPREM.
• Private Health Insurance: A comprehensive health insurance policy from a Spanish provider, covering all medical needs without co-payments.
• Clean Criminal Record: A certificate from the applicant's home country (and any country they have lived in for the past five years).
• Medical Certificate: Proof of good health, confirming the absence of infectious diseases that could pose a public health risk.
• Proof of Accommodation: Rental contract or property ownership in Spain.

Required Documents

Applicants need to prepare the following documents:

• Valid passport (with at least one year before expiration)
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, pension funds, investments, etc.)
• Private health insurance policy
• Criminal record certificate
• Medical certificate
• Completed visa application form
• Proof of accommodation in Spain
• Passport-size photos

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents: Ensure all documents are properly translated into Spanish and apostilled if necessary.
2. Submit the Application: Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country.
3. Attend an Interview: Some consulates require an in-person interview.
4. Wait for Approval: Processing time typically ranges from 1 to 3 months.
5. Collect the Visa: If approved, the visa will be stamped in the passport, allowing entry into Spain.
6. Move to Spain and Register: Upon arrival, applicants must register at the local town hall (Empadronamiento).
7. Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): Within 30 days of arrival, applicants must apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) at the local immigration office.

Limitations and Restrictions

• No Work Rights: Holders cannot engage in employment or business activities in Spain.
• Annual Renewals: The visa is initially granted for one year and can be renewed for two-year periods. After five years, applicants may apply for permanent residency.
• Minimum Stay Requirement: To maintain the permit, holders must reside in Spain for at least 183 days per year, which may also make them tax residents.

Advantages of a Non-Lucrative Visa

• Easy pathway to long-term residency and eventual permanent residency or citizenship
• Ability to bring family members under the same visa
• No investment required compared to the Golden Visa

Work Visa and Residence Permit (Visado de Trabajo y Residencia)

If you plan to work in Spain as a foreign national from outside the EU, you will need a Work Visa and Residence Permit. This permit allows non-EU citizens to legally reside and work in Spain, whether as an employee or a self-employed professional (autónomo).

Types of Work Visas

Spain offers several types of work permits depending on the nature of employment:

1. Employee Work Visa (Visado de Trabajo por Cuenta Ajena)
   • For those who have secured a job contract with a Spanish company.
   • The employer must apply for a work permit on behalf of the applicant.
   • The job position must either be on Spain’s Shortage Occupation List or prove that no EU citizens are available for the role.
   • Valid for one year, renewable for up to five years, leading to permanent residency.
2. Self-Employed Work Visa (Visado de Trabajo por Cuenta Propia)
   • For freelancers and entrepreneurs who want to start a business or work independently.
   • Requires a detailed business plan demonstrating financial viability.
   • Applicants must prove they have the necessary licenses, qualifications, and sufficient funds.
   • Initially granted for one year, renewable for up to five years.
3. EU Blue Card (Tarjeta Azul UE)
   • For highly skilled workers with a job offer in Spain.
   • Requires a higher education degree or 5+ years of relevant work experience.
   • The offered salary must be 50% higher than the national average.
   • Allows movement within the EU after 18 months.
4. Seasonal Work Visa (Visado de Trabajo Temporal)
   • For temporary work in sectors like agriculture and tourism.
   • Employer must cover accommodation and transportation.
   • The contract cannot exceed 9 months per year.
5. Intra-Company Transfer Visa (ICT Visa)
   • For employees of multinational companies relocating to a Spanish branch.
   • Requires at least three months of prior employment with the company.
   • Valid for up to three years for managers and specialists, and one year for trainees.

Requirements for a Work Visa

To obtain a Spanish Work Visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• A job offer from a Spanish employer (for employee visas) or a viable business plan (for self-employed applicants).
• Work permit approval from the Spanish authorities.
• Sufficient financial resources to sustain oneself until receiving a salary.
• Clean criminal record from the home country and countries of residence in the past five years.
• Medical certificate proving the applicant is in good health.
• Valid passport with at least one year before expiration.
• Proof of accommodation in Spain.
• Visa application form and passport-size photos.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Employer Applies for Work Authorization
   • The Spanish employer submits a work permit request to the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería).
   • Processing time: 1 to 3 months.
2. Visa Application at the Spanish Consulate
   • Once the work permit is approved, the applicant submits a visa application at the Spanish consulate in their home country.
   • Required documents include work contract, passport, medical certificate, and proof of financial means.
   • Processing time: 1 to 2 months.
3. Receive the Work Visa and Enter Spain
   • The applicant collects the visa and must enter Spain within the validity period (usually 90 days).
4. Register with Local Authorities
   • Within 30 days of arrival, applicants must register with the municipal registry (Empadronamiento).
5. Apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
   • The applicant must apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) at the immigration office.
   • Fingerprints are taken, and the residence card is issued within one month.

Costs and Processing Time

• Fees:
  • Work permit application: €70–€400 (varies by visa type and country).
  • Visa processing fee: €80–€200.
  • Residence card (TIE): ~€16.
• Processing Time:
  • Work permit approval: 1 to 3 months.
  • Visa approval: 1 to 2 months.
  • Residence card issuance: 4 to 6 weeks.

Limitations and Restrictions

• Job-Specific Permit: The work permit is tied to the employer and position; changing jobs requires a new permit.
• Renewal Conditions: Renewals depend on continued employment and social security contributions.
• Tax Residency: If staying in Spain for more than 183 days per year, the applicant becomes a tax resident.

Benefits of a Spanish Work Visa

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After five years of legal residence.
• Family Reunification: After one year, holders can bring family members.
• EU Blue Card Holders: Easier access to work in other EU countries.

Freelancer Visa (Autónomo Visa)

The Autónomo Visa is a Spanish residence and work permit designed for non-EU citizens who want to work as freelancers or start their own business in Spain. This visa allows self-employed individuals to legally live in Spain while running their business or offering professional services.

Who Can Apply?

This visa is ideal for:

• Freelancers working with international or Spanish clients (IT professionals, designers, writers, consultants, etc.).
• Entrepreneurs planning to start a small business in Spain.
• Digital nomads who work remotely for non-Spanish companies but want to reside in Spain.

Requirements for the Freelancer Visa

To qualify for the Autónomo Visa, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Business Plan: If starting a business, a clear and viable plan showing financial sustainability and economic contribution is required.
• Sufficient Financial Means: Applicants must prove they have at least 100% of IPREM (€8,400 per year) or more if bringing dependents.
• Relevant Qualifications: Proof of necessary certifications or licenses if required for the profession.
• Client Contracts or Business Projections: Existing client agreements, work proposals, or invoices showing stable income.
• Private Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage from a Spanish provider.
• Clean Criminal Record: From the applicant’s home country and any country of residence in the past five years.
• Medical Certificate: Proof of good health and no contagious diseases.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Prepare the Required Documents
   • Business plan or proof of freelance work
   • Financial statements proving income stability
   • Health insurance policy
   • Criminal record certificate
   • Medical certificate
   • Valid passport
2. Apply for the Visa at the Spanish Consulate
   • Submit all required documents.
   • Pay the visa fee (€80–€200).
   • Processing time: 1 to 3 months.
3. Move to Spain and Register as Autónomo
   • Within 30 days of arrival, complete the following registrations:
     • Tax Office (Agencia Tributaria): Obtain a tax number (NIE).
     • Social Security (Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social): Enroll in the autónomo system and begin contributions.
4. Obtain the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
   • Apply at the immigration office within 30 days of arrival.
   • Receive the residence card within one month.

Costs and Taxes

• Expected Costs:
  • Visa application fee: €80–€200
  • Registration as autónomo: €60–€100
  • Monthly social security contributions:
    • €80 for the first year (new autónomos discount).
    • €230–€300 per month after the first year.
• Tax Responsibilities:
  • Income Tax (IRPF): 15% for new autónomos (first 2 years), then 19–47% depending on income.
  • VAT (IVA): If providing services in Spain, you may need to charge 21% VAT.

Limitations and Challenges

• No Traditional Employment: This visa only allows self-employment; working as an employee is not permitted.
• Tax and Accounting Obligations: Autónomos must manage their own taxes, VAT filings, and social security payments.
• Visa Renewal Requirements: Applicants must prove their business is active and profitable for renewal.

Benefits of the Freelancer Visa

• Legally Live and Work in Spain: Without needing a Spanish employer.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: After 5 years of continuous residence.
• Family Reunification: After one year, applicants can bring family members under the same residency.

Student Residence Permit (Estancia por Estudios)

A Student Residence Permit allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain for educational purposes, including university studies, vocational training, research, or language courses. This permit does not grant full work rights but does allow limited employment under specific conditions.

Who Can Apply?

This permit is suitable for:

• Students enrolling in universities, master’s programs, or PhD studies in Spain.
• Participants in language courses at accredited institutions.
• Individuals taking vocational training or specialized educational programs.
• Researchers or interns under formal training agreements.

Requirements for a Student Residence Permit

To obtain this permit, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Admission to an Educational Institution: An official acceptance letter from a recognized Spanish university, school, or research center.
• Sufficient Financial Means: Proof of financial support covering at least 100% of IPREM (€8,400 per year) or a scholarship.
• Health Insurance: Private health insurance covering medical expenses in Spain.
• Clean Criminal Record: Certificate from the applicant’s home country and any country of residence in the past five years.
• Medical Certificate: Confirmation of good health and no contagious diseases.
• Proof of Accommodation: Rental contract, student housing confirmation, or a letter from a host.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Prepare Required Documents
   • Passport with at least one year of validity.
   • Letter of admission from an educational institution.
   • Proof of financial means (bank statements, scholarship documents, or parental sponsorship).
   • Health insurance policy.
   • Criminal record certificate and medical certificate.
   • Completed visa application form.
2. Apply for the Student Visa at the Spanish Consulate
   • Submit the application in your home country.
   • Pay the visa fee (€60–€150).
   • Processing time: 1 to 3 months.
3. Move to Spain and Register with Local Authorities
   • Upon arrival, register at the local municipal office (Empadronamiento).
   • If staying for more than six months, apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days.
4. Obtain the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
   • Visit the immigration office to submit biometric data.
   • The residence card is issued within one month.

Work Rights for Student Permit Holders

• Students can work up to 30 hours per week if the job does not interfere with studies.
• A separate work permit is required, which must be sponsored by an employer.
• Internships related to the field of study are allowed without a separate permit.

Costs and Processing Time

• Visa application fee: €60–€150.
• Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): ~€16.
• Processing time: 1 to 3 months.

Limitations and Restrictions

• The permit is only valid for study purposes and does not grant full work rights.
• It must be renewed annually based on continued enrollment.
• Does not directly lead to permanent residency, but students may switch to a Work Visa after graduation.

Benefits of a Student Residence Permit

• Legal residence in Spain for the duration of studies.
• Possibility to work part-time or do internships.
• Option to switch to a Work Visa or Entrepreneur Visa after studies.

EU Blue Card (Tarjeta Azul UE)

The EU Blue Card is a special residence and work permit for highly qualified non-EU professionals who want to work in Spain. It provides advantages over regular work visas, including faster access to long-term residency and the ability to move within the European Union.

Who Can Apply?

The EU Blue Card is ideal for:

• Highly skilled professionals with a university degree or at least five years of relevant work experience.
• Non-EU citizens with a job offer in Spain that meets salary and qualification requirements.
• Specialists in IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and other high-demand fields.

Requirements for an EU Blue Card

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Higher Education Degree or Professional Experience: A recognized university degree (at least a bachelor’s) or five years of professional experience in the field.
• Employment Contract: A job offer for at least one year from a Spanish company.
• Minimum Salary Requirement: The salary must be at least 1.5 times the average gross salary in Spain (around €40,000–€45,000 per year, though this varies).
• Clean Criminal Record: From the applicant’s home country and any other country of residence in the past five years.
• Health Insurance: Private or public health coverage in Spain.
• Work Authorization: The employer must apply for a work permit on behalf of the applicant.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Employer Applies for Work Authorization
   • The Spanish company submits an application to the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería).
   • Processing time: 1 to 3 months.
2. Apply for the EU Blue Card Visa
   • After work authorization is approved, the applicant applies at the Spanish consulate in their home country.
   • Submit required documents, including passport, work contract, degree, and criminal record certificate.
   • Pay the visa fee (€80–€200).
   • Processing time: 1 to 2 months.
3. Move to Spain and Register with Local Authorities
   • Upon arrival, register at the local municipal office (Empadronamiento).
   • Apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days.
4. Receive the EU Blue Card
   • The residence card is issued within one month.
   • Initially valid for one to four years, depending on the contract.

Rights and Benefits of the EU Blue Card

• Fast Track to Permanent Residency: Eligible for long-term EU residency after five years (even if you lived in different EU countries).
• Work and Mobility within the EU: After 18 months, you can apply for jobs in other EU countries without a new visa.
• Family Reunification: Spouses and children can join immediately and have the right to work.
• Higher Job Security: The card allows switching employers without losing residency (subject to approval).

Costs and Processing Time

• Visa application fee: €80–€200.
• Work authorization fee: €70–€400 (varies by region).
• Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): ~€16.
• Processing time: 2 to 4 months in total.

Limitations and Restrictions

• The salary threshold may vary by region and profession.
• The permit is tied to the initial employer for the first two years; changing jobs requires approval.
• Not all professions qualify—only highly skilled roles are eligible.

Comparison: EU Blue Card vs. Regular Work Visa

Family Reunification (Reagrupación Familiar)

The Family Reunification Visa allows non-EU residents in Spain to bring their family members to live with them. This permit is available to individuals who have legally resided in Spain for at least one year and have obtained a residence permit valid for at least one more year.

Who Can Apply?

The Family Reunification Visa is intended for:

• Spouses or registered partners of a Spanish resident.
• Children under 18 (or over 18 if financially dependent due to disability).
• Parents (over 65 years old) if financially dependent on the applicant.

Requirements for Family Reunification

To apply, the sponsoring resident in Spain must meet the following conditions:

• Legal Residence: Must have lived in Spain for at least one year with a valid residence permit.
• Sufficient Financial Means: Proof of income to support family members (minimum 150% of IPREM for one person, about €12,600 per year, plus 50% per additional dependent).
• Suitable Housing: Proof of adequate living conditions (rental contract, property deed, or housing certificate).
• Health Insurance: Private or public medical coverage for the family members.
• Proof of Family Relationship: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or proof of dependency (translated and legalized).

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Submit the Reunification Request in Spain
   • The sponsoring resident applies at the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) in their local area.
   • Processing time: 1 to 3 months.
2. Family Member Applies for a Visa at the Spanish Consulate
   • Once approved, the family member submits their visa application at the consulate in their home country.
   • Required documents include a passport, medical certificate, criminal record, and proof of the relationship.
   • Processing time: 1 to 2 months.
3. Move to Spain and Obtain a Residence Permit
   • The family member must travel to Spain within 90 days after visa approval.
   • Upon arrival, they must register at the local municipal office (Empadronamiento).
   • Within one month, apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

Rights of Reunited Family Members

• Residence Permit: Initially granted for the same duration as the sponsor’s permit.
• Work Authorization: Spouses can work in Spain without needing an additional permit.
• Education and Healthcare: Children have access to Spanish public education and healthcare.
• Path to Permanent Residency: After 5 years of residence, family members can apply for long-term residency.

Costs and Processing Time

• Application Fee: €80–€150
• Foreigner Identity Card (TIE): ~€16
• Processing Time: 2 to 4 months (including visa approval)

Limitations and Restrictions

• Time Requirement: The sponsor must have lived in Spain for at least one year before applying.
• Financial Proof: Applicants must demonstrate stable income to support their family.
• Parent Reunification is Limited: Only allowed for parents over 65 years old who depend financially on the applicant.

Golden Visa (Residency by Investment in Real Estate)

The Golden Visa is a Spanish residency permit granted to non-EU citizens who make a significant investment in Spain, primarily through purchasing real estate. This visa offers a fast-track to residency with minimal stay requirements, making it a popular choice for investors, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals.

Who Can Apply?

The Golden Visa is ideal for:

• Investors looking to acquire Spanish real estate worth at least €500,000.
• Entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in Spain.
• Individuals interested in a residency-by-investment program with minimal physical presence requirements.
• Families who want EU residency benefits, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.

Investment Requirements

To qualify for the Golden Visa, applicants must meet one of the following investment criteria:

• Real Estate Purchase: Buy property in Spain worth at least €500,000 (can be multiple properties).
• Business Investment: Invest in a Spanish company that creates jobs or contributes to the economy.
• Government Bonds: Purchase €2 million in Spanish government bonds.
• Bank Deposit: Deposit €1 million in a Spanish bank.

Other Requirements

• Clean Criminal Record: From the applicant’s home country and any country of residence in the past five years.
• Health Insurance: Private medical insurance covering Spain.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence of financial means to support yourself and your family.
• Legal Source of Funds: Documentation proving the investment money is legally obtained.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Invest in Spanish Real Estate or Other Eligible Assets
   • Choose and purchase property worth €500,000 or more.
   • Ensure the transaction is completed before applying for the visa.
2. Apply for the Golden Visa at the Spanish Consulate
   • Submit investment documents, financial proof, criminal record certificate, and health insurance.
   • Pay the visa application fee (€60–€150).
   • Processing time: 1 to 2 months.
3. Move to Spain and Apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)
   • Register your residency and obtain the residence permit (initially valid for 2 years, then renewable for 5 years).
4. Renew the Golden Visa
   • Renew every 5 years by proving the investment is still maintained.

Costs and Processing Time

• Minimum Investment: €500,000 (real estate)
• Visa Fee: €60–€150
• Legal and Notary Fees: ~1% of the property value
• Property Taxes and Maintenance: ~10–12% of the property price (including VAT, registration fees, and legal costs)
• Processing Time: 1 to 3 months

Key Benefits of the Golden Visa

• No Minimum Stay Requirement: Unlike other visas, there is no need to live in Spain full-time.
• Family Reunification: Spouses, children, and dependent parents can apply under the same visa.
• Visa-Free Travel: Allows Schengen Zone travel (90 days in any 180-day period).
• Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After 5 years, investors can apply for permanent residency. After 10 years, they can apply for Spanish citizenship.
• Option to Rent Out the Property: Investors can earn rental income.

Limitations and Restrictions

• No Direct Work Permit: The Golden Visa does not automatically grant the right to work in Spain (though investors can apply separately).
• High Initial Investment: Only available for individuals who can afford significant financial commitments.
• No Fast-Track to Citizenship: Requires 10 years of residency to apply for a Spanish passport.

General Requirements and Documents for Immigration to Spain

Regardless of the specific visa or residence permit type, there are common requirements and standard documents that all applicants must prepare when applying for Spanish residency. Below is a structured overview of the key conditions, necessary paperwork, and other important considerations.

General Requirements for Immigration

To legally move to Spain, applicants must meet the following basic conditions:

• Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least one year beyond the intended stay.
• Clean Criminal Record – Certificate from the home country and any country of residence in the last five years.
• Medical Certificate – Proof of good health and absence of contagious diseases.
• Financial Means – Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself and dependents.
• Health Insurance – Private or public health coverage (depending on visa type).
• Purpose of Stay – Justification of the reason for immigration (work, study, investment, etc.).
• Visa or Residence Permit – Required for non-EU citizens (EU/EEA citizens only need to register in Spain).

Standard Documents Required for Immigration

Regardless of the visa category, applicants typically need to submit the following documents:

All foreign documents must be officially translated into Spanish and legalized (apostille or consular authentication required).

Financial Requirements for Immigration

Spain requires proof of financial stability for most visa applications. The minimum financial means are calculated based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples), which is updated annually.

2024 IPREM Standards:

• Monthly IPREM: ~€600
• Annual IPREM: ~€7,200

Application Process and Timeline

• Prepare Required Documents – Gather originals and certified translations.
• Submit Application – Apply at the Spanish consulate or immigration office (depends on visa type).
• Attend an Interview – Some visas require a personal interview at the consulate.
• Wait for Approval – Processing time varies from 1 to 6 months.
• Move to Spain – After visa approval, applicants have 90 days to enter Spain.
• Apply for a Residence Card (TIE) – Within 30 days of arrival, register with local authorities and obtain a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Long Processing Times – Some visas (e.g., work visas) can take several months. Solution: Apply well in advance.
• Financial Proof Issues – Bank statements must clearly show sufficient funds. Solution: Use a Spanish bank account if possible.
• Document Authentication – Many documents need apostille/legalization. Solution: Start document legalization early.
• Language Barrier – Most documents must be in Spanish. Solution: Use certified translation services.