Do I Need a Visa to Live in Spain?
Do you need a visa for Spain? Depends on nationality and length of stay. EU citizens vs non-EU explained.
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and planned duration. EU/EEA citizens have different rules than non-EU citizens. This guide clarifies exactly who needs a visa.
EU and EEA Citizens
EU citizens (and Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland): NO visa needed. You can live in Spain indefinitely under Freedom of Movement rights. You must register residency within 3 months but don't need a visa. After 5 years, you get permanent residency automatically.
Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU citizens (US, Canada, Australia, UK post-Brexit, etc.): YES, you need a visa to live in Spain long-term. You can visit visa-free for 90 days, but to live permanently you need a visa.
UK Citizens (Post-Brexit)
UK citizens are now non-EU for visa purposes. YES, UK citizens need a visa to live in Spain. The non-lucrative visa is popular with UK retirees.
Visa Types Available
Non-Lucrative (retirement/passive income). Digital Nomad (remote work). Student (education). Work (employment). Family (joining relatives). Entrepreneur/Investor. Highly Skilled Worker. Each has specific requirements.
What Counts as 'Living' in Spain
Staying more than 90 days = living. Registering residency = living. Working in Spain = living. Even without employment, staying continuously = living. If you're anywhere between tourist and permanent resident, you need a visa.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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