How to Move to Spain in 2026: Visa and Relocation Guide

As the number of Americans relocating to Portugal continues to rise, Spain emerges as an attractive alternative—offering a similar relaxed lifestyle, but with larger cities and broader regional diversity. Anyone considering a move should be well-informed about the current legal and financial requirements.

Is It Worth Moving to Spain in 2026?

Spain consistently ranks high for quality of life, thanks to its affordable cost of living, accessible healthcare, and pleasant climate. While cultural adjustment and bureaucracy can pose challenges, many expats find the overall benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Outside major cities like Madrid, living costs are especially manageable—but careful financial planning remains essential. Spain also has a well-developed support system for expats, making it easier to integrate and build a life abroad.

Requirements for Entry to Spain 

Those planning on moving to Spain must first ensure they meet the necessary visa requirements. The specific path depends on individual circumstances. For stays exceeding 90 days, a long-stay visa is usually needed. Applicants typically need a valid passport, a clear criminal record, demonstrable financial means, and comprehensive health insurance. In many cases, documents require an official translation and apostille.

New Immigration Rules in Spain for 2026

Spain's immigration policies have undergone significant updates, largely influenced by Royal Decree 1155/2024, effective since May 20, 2026. These reforms have been designed to streamline processes and enhance legal certainty. Key changes include:

• Digitalization: A significant number of immigration procedures are currently conducted entirely online.
• Residence Permit Validity: Initial work and residence permits are standardized at one year. Upon renewal, most permits are now valid for four years, offering greater stability and reducing administrative burdens for both applicants and employers. In addition, long-term residency cards are now valid for 10 years for most applicants—an increase from the previous 5 years—particularly benefiting those over the age of 30.
• "Arraigo" System Reforms: The "arraigo" (roots) program, a regularization pathway for those in irregular situations, has been reformed. The required irregular stay period is reduced from three to two years for certain categories. New categories have been introduced, including "socio-laboral arraigo," which requires a job offer, and "arraigo socioformativo," intended for professional training. A "second chance" arraigo also applies to asylum seekers.
• Family Reunification: The maximum age for dependent children who can be reunited with a legal resident has increased from 21 to 26 years. The regulations pertaining to unregistered partners and ascendants have been simplified.
• Long-Term Residency Cards: For applicants over 30, the physical residence card for long-term residency is now valid for 10 years, an extension from the previous 5 years. 
• Golden Visa Spain: As of April 3, 2026, Spain has officially ended the real estate route of its Golden Visa program. Other investment-based residency options may still be available under Law 14/2013.

Spain’s Visa Types for 2026

Knowing the different types of Spanish visas is essential for anyone planning to relocate to the country. Primary routes for non-EU citizens include:

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa

This option is for individuals with sufficient passive income, typically retirees or those not intending to work in Spain. For 2026, the requirement is approximately €2,760 per month for a single applicant, with an additional €945 per month for the first dependent (75% of the minimum wage) and €315 for each additional dependent (25%). Applicants must secure private health insurance covering their stay in Spain and commit to residing in the country for a minimum of 183 days per year. This visa does not permit employment, and Spain's Retirement Visa applicants typically fall under this category.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

Introduced under the Startups Law, this visa targets non-EU citizens working remotely for foreign companies, though no more than 20% of their professional activity can be for Spanish companies. Requirements include a higher education degree or at least three years of professional experience, and a stable income meeting specific thresholds. For 2026, the monthly income requirement is set at 200% of Spain’s Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI), amounting to approximately €2,763 for a single applicant. This increases by 75% of the SMI (around €1,036) for the first dependent, and 25% (around €345) for each additional dependent. This visa is initially valid for one year if applied for from abroad, or up to three years if applied for from within Spain, and can be renewed for a total stay of up to five years. A significant advantage for applicants employed by foreign companies is access to the Spanish Special Tax Regime, commonly known as the Beckham Law tax regime, though this benefit is not available to freelancers or self-employed individuals.

Spain’s Work Visa

For individuals with a job offer from a Spanish employer. The following subcategories are currently in place:

• Regular Work Visa: Requires a labor market test unless the role is on Spain's shortage list.  
• Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) Visa / EU Blue Card: Accelerated pathways for skilled professionals.
• Self-Employment (Autónomo) Visa: For freelancers or those starting a business in Spain. Requires a business plan and proof of financial means.
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa: For employees transferred by a multinational company to its Spanish branch.
• Seasonal Work Visa: For short-term employment.

Spain’s Student Visa

This visa is intended for those pursuing studies in Spain. For the 2026 academic year, students will be permitted to work up to 30 hours per week during their studies. Student permits are valid for the entire duration of the approved course. Upon completion of their studies, international students have a streamlined option to transfer to a work permit without leaving the country. There are specific regulations that pertain to language courses, including a minimum age of 18, application submission through Spanish consulates abroad, a maximum duration of two years (with the possibility of one extension), and the requirement of a Spanish language proficiency test for extension. Language students are not eligible to convert their permit to a work residency permit.

Spain’s Entrepreneur Visa

For foreign nationals establishing an innovative business project of economic interest to Spain. This visa requires a business plan and sufficient financial resources (100% of IPREM for the entrepreneur, 50% for each dependent).

Spain’s Job Seeker Visa

Effective as of May 2026, this visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for up to 12 months to seek employment or establish a business. This is particularly advantageous for graduates seeking to remain in Spain after completing their studies or for those seeking new professional opportunities.

New Rules for Living in Spain After Brexit

For UK citizens, new rules for living in Spain after Brexit define immigration pathways. Since 2026, British nationals have been classified as third-country nationals, requiring appropriate visas for long-term stays. Key requirements include the need to obtain a long-term visa for stays exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period, mandatory proof of income, and restrictions on employment without prior authorization. The Digital Nomad Visa remains a viable option for many British remote workers, and the recently introduced Job Seeker Visa offers an additional option. Individuals holding UK nationality who have resided in Spain prior to January 1, 2021, and who are covered by the Withdrawal Agreement are required to hold the biometric TIE card to be exempt from the new EU Entry/Exit System (EES), which is scheduled to be implemented gradually starting October 2026, with full implementation by April 2026.

Cost of Living in Spain vs Portugal

While the cost of living in Spain is generally lower than in Portugal or the US, it varies by region. Accommodation, food, and public transportation are often more affordable. Financial requirements for various visas are indicative of the minimum annual income or savings needed.

Conclusion

Relocating to Spain presents a unique opportunity for those seeking a new life. Recent legal updates demonstrate Spain's commitment to modernizing its immigration system, providing new pathways for aspiring residents, particularly remote workers and job seekers. While the Golden Visa abolition marks a change, other categories, including the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa, Spain Work Visa, and the new Job Seeker Visa Spain, remain viable options. Consulting with a chartered tax advisor can provide clarity and ensure alignment with the current framework.

At Tytle, we provide global tax services, including:

• Accounting/bookkeeping
• Accurate tax filing
• Estate planning
• Cross-border advice
• Immigration services
• And much more!

For more international tax advice, feel free to explore: “Retiring in Spain: Clock Ticking on Tax Perks?” and “How to Move to Portugal in 2026? A Guide to All Visa Types”.