Residency Options For American Citizens In Spain

Every year, Spain attracts thousands of immigrants from different corners of the world. With a diverse landscape, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and pleasant year-round weather, it's an ideal destination to start a new life.

However, before this dream can become a reality, one must first navigate the hurdle that creates many uncertainties: obtaining a residency permit.

According to Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE), at the end of 2025, there were more than 40,000 U.S. nationals living in Spain.

So what are the available options for an American citizen to obtain Spanish residency and what steps should be taken to acquire it?

This article will explore the various residency options available to U.S. nationals and delve into the requirements for each permit, so you can determine the best path for you.

What are the advantages of getting residency in Spain?

Before we look at the different residency options, let's take a look at the benefits of obtaining a Spanish residency permit.

There are several advantages to obtaining residency in Spain. These include:

• Opportunity to work: With some residency permits, you will be legally allowed to work in Spain and have the same employment rights as Spanish citizens.
• Education: As a resident, you and your family will have access to Spain's public education system, which is highly regarded.
• Travel: As a resident, you can travel freely within the Schengen area without a visa.
• Quality of life: Spain offers a high quality of life with its pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
• EU access: Residency in Spain can make it easier to travel and eventually move within the EU.
• Family reunification: Most residency permits allow your partner and children to join you in Spain.
• Investment opportunities: Certain visas provide residency rights in exchange for investment in real estate or other assets.

What are the different residency options for Americans?

Residency visa eligibility depends on three key factors:

• Your country of origin (in this case, the U.S., a non-EU country)
• The duration of your stay
• Whether you intend to work in Spain

If you're only visiting for up to 90 days, you do not need a visa. For longer stays, a long-term residency visa is required.

Non-Lucrative Visa: This visa is for those who don’t plan to work and can prove sufficient financial means. It's initially valid for one year and renewable. Learn about the non-lucrative visa.

Self-Employed Visa: For those starting a business or freelancing in Spain. Proof of a viable business plan and financial backing is required. Learn about self-employed visas.

Digital Nomad Visa: This visa is now fully established and ideal for remote workers. It offers tax breaks, EU travel, family reunification, and up to six months of permitted absence from Spain. Become a digital nomad in Spain.

Student Visa: For those enrolled in Spanish education institutions. Includes access to part-time work and dependent coverage. More on student visas.

Work Visa: For Americans with a job offer in Spain. The employer must demonstrate no suitable EU candidate was available. Read about Spanish work visas.

Family Reunification Visa: If you have family in Spain who are citizens or legal residents, you may be eligible. Details on family reunification.

Family Member of an EU Citizen: If your spouse or partner is from the EU, you may apply under this route. Consider civil partnerships (pareja de hecho) to qualify. More on pareja de hecho.

Apply for residency as a non-EU family member.

Requirements and documentation vary. It's highly recommended to consult with a Spanish immigration lawyer or contact your nearest Spanish consulate for tailored guidance.