In Europe, Spain is actually the largest destination for migrants. Out of their whole population, 7.3 million of them were not born in Spain.

If you’re thinking about moving to Spain from the US, you’re not alone. 

However, there are some key things you need to know about moving there before you decide to live in Spain. Keep reading to find out all you need to know to immigrate to Spain.

Get Spanish Residency

Before you move to Spain, you’ll need to figure out Spanish residency. If you’re only going to be in Spain for less than 90 days to study, vacation, or take care of business matters, you need to apply for a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). 

You need to submit this Visa application at least 72 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. The permit is valid for three years or until your passport expires. 

If you’re interested in moving permanently to Spain, then you’ll need to get a different Visa. There are different options you can apply for, so you’ll have to find the one that aligns most with your situation:

• Investor Visa
• Permanent Residency Visa
• Employment Visa
• Entrepreneur Visa
• Retirement Visa

Applying for these Visas can be challenging, but if you follow all of the steps, you should be able to obtain one of these Visas. If you need assistance, you can also check out MySpainVisa.com. They are specialised in immigration law and can help you get the right visa. 

However, you need to make sure that you have a backup plan in case you don’t get the visa you apply for. Being flexible will help you find the right option that allows you to move to Spain. 

Find a Real Estate Agent

Next, you’ll also want to find a real estate agent who can help you find the perfect home in Spain. However, if you don’t speak any Spanish, it may be challenging to find an agent.

There are agencies that have English-speaking agents, but there aren’t many of them. Many agents may not want to deal with foreigners because of the language barrier. 

If an agent doesn’t want to work with you, just cross them off your list and contact the next one. It may take some time, but eventually, you’ll find an agent who you can communicate with.

Once you find that agent, make sure to save their contact info so you can easily contact them again. You may need to use an international messaging app like WhatsApp to communicate.

If there are some language barriers, you can also rely on Google Translate. It can be challenging to translate everything, but if you find someone who can mostly communicate in English, Google Translate will help when neither of you can think of the right thing to say. 

Decide What Region to Move To

Once you’ve found a real estate agent, they can help you decide which area of Spain is best for you. However, you should spend some time researching the different areas to find the one that’s right for you.

Now is a great time to buy property in Spain because the dollar is performing better than the Euro. This makes it more affordable for investors all over the world. 

Even if you don’t plan to live in it for the rest of your life, it could be a great investment property as well. If this is the route you’re interested in taking, you may want to find an area popular with tourists as well. 

However, some of the best areas in Spain to purchase in right now are Madrid, Barcelona, and Marbella. 

Review Your Budget

While Spain is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to move to, you do need to have a budget to make sure you find the right property. However, properties in Spain are typically cheaper than properties in the United States. 

Even rental properties in Spain might be cheaper. Properties are more expensive in bigger cities like Madrid and Barcelona, but you can find some cheaper properties in a city like Marbella. 

Another thing you’ll want to factor into your budget is taxes. If you stay in Spain for more than 182 days each year, you’re classified as a tax resident. Spain taxes you on your worldwide income, and these rates are also higher than rates in America.

There is a treaty that prevents you from having to pay taxes to two countries, but you will still need to file the taxes. 

Spain also has a wealth tax for people who have assets that are over $750,000. However, this doesn’t apply if you’re living in Valencia or Madrid. 

Property taxes also vary by region, but they’re generally much cheaper than property taxes in the United States. If you’re still confused by all of this, you may want to hire a Spanish tax advisor to help you.

Learn More About Moving to Spain From the US

These are some of the basic things you’ll need to know about moving to Spain from the US, but there are many smaller details to remember as well.

The most important thing to do is ensure you have someone who can help you buy property in Spain. It can be challenging to find the right agent to help you, but we’ve got you covered. 

For help with moving to Spain, contact us today, and we can help you find the perfect home in Marbella.