Spain Visa and Relocation Tips from a Pro Relocation Expert

Relocating to Spain isn’t just a move to a new place; it’s a lifestyle transformation that requires clarity, planning, and the right kind of help. On this episode of Passport to Wealth™, host Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, sits down with seasoned relocation expert Christopher J. Hughey, founder of Americans Moving to Spain. With years of global experience and three different Spanish visas under his belt, Christopher shares what it truly takes to relocate to Spain in today’s evolving expat landscape.

Why Spain Continues to Attract U.S. Expats

Christopher has lived and worked across six countries, but his heart always returned to Spain. The lifestyle, the culture, and the values drew him back, not once, but twice.

“If you leave the United States strictly because of politics without a strong pull to your new country, you’re less likely to succeed.”

Spain offers sun-soaked coastlines, rich culture, and an enviable work-life balance. But it’s not without its challenges. Christopher stresses that the relaxed pace of life also means slower bureaucratic processes, which can frustrate unprepared newcomers.

Two Key Visa Options for U.S. Expats

Spain offers several visa options, but two dominate among U.S. expats: the Non-Lucrative Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa.

Non-Lucrative Visa (Retirement/Sabbatical)

Often dubbed the "retirement visa," this option doesn't allow you to work in Spain. However, there's no age restriction. You must show consistent income or savings, a clean criminal record, and solid documentation.

Digital Nomad Visa

Launched recently, this visa suits remote workers. You must derive at least 80% of your income from outside Spain and show that your job is truly location-independent.

Key Differences Between These Visas:

• The non-lucrative visa does not allow any employment in Spain.
• The digital nomad visa supports remote work with international clients.
• Interestingly, the spouse of a digital nomad visa holder receives full work rights in Spain.

Christopher notes that many expats shift from a non-lucrative to a digital nomad visa, a move Spain surprisingly allows, even if it implies prior work that wasn’t initially authorized.

The Hidden Challenges of Moving to Spain

The biggest surprises for newcomers aren’t always related to paperwork it is actually the way that their lifestyle shifts.

“Seventy percent of moving to a new country is not about the government forms...it’s about how to set up your bank account, navigate school enrollment, and avoid scams.”

From setting up utilities to enrolling kids in school, many expats underestimate how much time, energy, and planning go into daily logistics. Spain’s bureaucratic processes are infamously slow, and knowing how to navigate them can make or break your expat experience.

Relocation isn’t one-size-fits-all. Climate, lifestyle preferences, and even personality type should factor into choosing a region of Spain. Those accustomed to precision and efficiency may struggle in laid-back areas, while others may find joy in Spain’s more relaxed rhythms.

Citizenship Path & Tax Considerations

Spain offers two primary routes to citizenship:

• 10-Year Standard Path: For most Americans, this means five years to permanent residency, then five more to citizenship. Requirements include a B1-level Spanish language test and a basic civics exam.
• 2-Year Accelerated Path: For those with Latin American, Philippine, or Portuguese citizenship, Spain provides a fast-track option.

“I always ask my clients: what is your why? If you’re just being pushed out of your country, not pulled to the new one, you’re less likely to thrive.”

When considering citizenship, Christopher also emphasizes the legal nuance around dual nationality. Spain asks for a formal renunciation of other citizenships, but in practice, enforcement is rare, and the U.S. won’t strip citizenship based on an oath taken abroad.

On the financial side, moving to Spain means becoming a Spanish tax resident after 183 days. U.S. expats must consider double taxation, FATCA compliance, and how to structure passive and earned income under both tax regimes.

How to Get Started & What to Ask First

Relocating abroad starts with self-reflection, not logistics. Christopher urges aspiring expats to define their motivations and envision their future life before diving into documentation.

Here’s what to consider before starting the move:

• What is your why for moving abroad?
• Which visa best fits your lifestyle and financial situation?
• How will your family adapt to a new culture and system?
• Do you have professional help to navigate legal, tax, and lifestyle logistics?

Having clear answers to these questions sets the stage for a smoother transition. Relocating abroad isn’t just logistical. The decision to move abroad to Spain, or anywhere, is a deeply personal decision that shapes your lifestyle, finances, and identity. By understanding your motivations and taking a structured, expert-guided approach, you can make your move to Spain not only successful but deeply fulfilling.

Connect with Our Guest

Christopher J. Hughey is the founder of Americans Moving to Spain, a concierge relocation company helping U.S. expats navigate the entire move from visa processing to finding housing and settling into Spanish life. With a zero percent visa rejection rate and a passion for helping others avoid common pitfalls, Christopher has become a trusted expert in the expat community. 

More About Our Author

Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA is the host of Passport to Wealth™ and an international financial planner who specializes in cross-border financial solutions for Americans living abroad. Through her work and podcast, she equips expats with tools to make financially sound decisions in complex global environments. 

FAQs: U.S. Expats Moving to Spain

What visa should a U.S. expat choose when relocating to Spain?

It depends on your employment status and income. Non-lucrative and digital nomad visas are most common.

Can my spouse work if I get a digital nomad visa?

Yes. Spouses under this visa type can receive full work authorization in Spain.

Will I lose my U.S. citizenship if I become a Spanish citizen?

No. U.S. law requires a formal process to renounce citizenship, and Spanish authorities generally don’t enforce dual citizenship clauses.

How long do I need to live in Spain to become a citizen?

Ten years for most U.S. expats. Two years if you hold a passport from Latin America, the Philippines, or Portugal.

How can I find the right region to live in Spain?

Consider climate, lifestyle, cost of living, and access to international schools or work opportunities.