How to Become a Spanish Resident

Dreaming of life under the Spanish sun? Legally becoming a Spanish resident is a crucial step. Whether you’re planning to retire on the Costa del Sol or work in one of Spain’s vibrant cities, our guide simplifies the Spanish residency process. Here’s everything you need to know.

Eligibility Criteria

If you’re considering applying to become a Spanish resident as an international citizen, you’ll need to meet specific requirements laid out by Spain’s immigration laws.

Understanding and fulfilling these eligibility criteria is a critical first step toward obtaining Spanish residency. Proper planning and gathering the right documentation early on can save you time and avoid unnecessary stress during the application process.

Sufficient Financial Resources – You must show you can support yourself and any dependents financially without relying on public funds in Spain. The required amount is based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples). In 2023, the minimum monthly income is around €2,400 for individuals, plus €600 per dependent. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, pension statements, rental income, or a job contract. Retirees can use pension income or substantial savings to meet the requirement.
Private Health Insurance – Healthcare coverage is essential unless you are working and contributing to Spain’s social security system. The policy must include primary care, specialist treatment, and hospital stays. Basic travel insurance won’t qualify. The insurer must be recognised in Spain, and the policy should have no co-payments, meaning no extra charges for doctor visits or treatments. Many expats choose providers like Sanitas or Adeslas. Before signing, confirm the policy meets residency application rules.
Clean Criminal Record – – Applicants must provide police certificates from their home country confirming no criminal convictions. In the UK, this is obtained through an ACRO Criminal Records Office check—request the “International Child Protection Certificate” version, Apostilled for international use. For US citizens this will be the FBI and for Dutch citizens VOG. If you’ve lived in Spain, you must also get a background check from Spanish authorities. Certificates must be no older than three months and include an official Spanish translation.
Purpose of Residency – – Spanish residency applications must state your reason for living in Spain, with documentation depending on your purpose.
- Retirement: Retirees often opt for a non-lucrative visa. Provide proof of pension income, savings, or other financial support.
- Employment: If moving for work, you’ll need a valid job offer and an approved work visa. Your employer must show the role couldn’t be filled locally.
- Studies: Enrol in a recognised Spanish institution and provide proof of admission, enough funds to support yourself, and health insurance.
- Family Reunification: If joining a family member already legally in Spain, provide proof of the relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate) and evidence they can support you financially.

Required Documents to Become a Spanish Resident

To ensure a smooth application process for Spanish residency, it’s essential to have all the required paperwork ready.

Valid passport (with copies) – Your passport should be up-to-date and have at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay. Make several photocopies for submission, as they are often required alongside the original.
Proof of financial means – Recent bank statements (at least three months), pension details, proof of rental income, or an employment contract will suffice. These documents should clearly demonstrate that you meet the income thresholds set by Spanish authorities.
Private health insurance policy certificate – Submit a certificate issued by your insurer that outlines your coverage in detail. Make sure the policy includes hospitalisation, specialist care, and emergency services, and is compliant with residency requirements.

Police clearance certificate – Obtain a clean criminal record certificate from your home country and, if applicable, from Spain. Ensure the document is Apostilled and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator to meet legal standards.
Proof of address in Spain – Provide a rental agreement, property deed, or utility bill showing your Spanish address. This serves as evidence that you reside in the country and will be required at various stages of the application.
Completed application form (EX-20 or EX-01) – The specific form depends on your residency pathway. These forms can be found online or at local immigration offices. Double-check that all sections are filled in and signed before submission.

How to Apply for Spanish Residency

Apply for a visa (if required): Non-lucrative visas are common for retirees, while work visas apply to employed individuals.
Register with your local town hall: Obtain a “padrón” certificate (proof of address) to demonstrate you live in Spain.
Apply at the immigration office (Extranjería): Submit your application with all required documents.
Get your NIE/TIE card: Obtain your Foreigner’s Identity Number (NIE) and later exchange it for a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) card.
Attend biometric appointment: Provide fingerprints and a photo for your residency card.

The process may take several weeks to months. Working with us at Property and Legal Services can help streamline the process and get it right first time.

Benefits of Spanish Residency

The benefits of Spanish residency go far beyond the paperwork, offering a gateway to a rewarding and enriching lifestyle in one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. It’s not just about meeting the requirements—it’s about opening the door to new opportunities, experiences, and a brighter future.

Long-term stay – As a resident, you can legally stay in Spain for more than 90 days without needing a Schengen visa. This is particularly appealing if you want to retire, work, or simply enjoy an extended period of Mediterranean sunshine without time restrictions. If you’re used to short holidays, residency opens the door to truly immersing yourself in the Spanish lifestyle.
Access to healthcare – Residents can apply to join Spain’s renowned universal healthcare system, which provides high-quality medical services at low or no cost. For retirees or those with chronic conditions, this is a critical asset. Alternatively, many residents opt for private healthcare, which is also affordable and offers quicker access to specialists.
Work opportunities – With the appropriate permits, residency allows you to seek employment or start a business in Spain. For example, professionals in industries like tourism, education, or IT can tap into growing job markets, while entrepreneurs may find Spain’s start-up-friendly climate ideal for launching their ventures.
Travel freedom – Spanish residency grants you the ability to move freely within the Schengen Zone, covering 27 European countries. This makes weekend getaways to France, Italy, or Portugal effortless, saving you the hassle of applying for visas when traveling.
Lifestyle perks – Living in Spain offers an unrivalled quality of life—think mild winters, endless beaches, and vibrant festivals. Whether it’s savouring tapas at a local market, practicing your swing at world-class golf courses, or exploring centuries-old architecture, life in Spain has a charm that’s hard to match. Plus, the cost of living is noticeably more affordable compared to the US, UK and the Netherlands, allowing your money to go further.
Path to permanent residency and citizenship – After five years of continuous legal residency, you become eligible for permanent residency, granting even stronger rights, such as staying indefinitely without renewing your permit. If you dream of making Spain your forever home, after ten years, you can apply for Spanish citizenship, gaining full access to all the benefits that come with it.

Simplify the Process with Expert Help

The Spanish residency process can be daunting, especially with complex paperwork and language barriers. At Property and Legal Services, we can guide you through every step—ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

If becoming a Spanish resident is your goal, you don’t have to go it alone. Contact our team of residency experts to move one step closer to your life in the sunny Spanish paradise!