How to Get a Spanish Residence Permit in 2025: Full Guide
Только самое полезное
How to get a residence permit in Spain in 2025: all types of visas, the best cities to live in, expenses, healthcare, and adaptation. A complete guide for expats.
Spain is more than just sun, sea, and sangria. In 2025, it’s also one of the most popular destinations for relocation and obtaining a residence permit. Whether you're a digital nomad, a retiree, a student, or someone looking for a fresh start in Europe — Spain has a variety of visa options tailored to different goals and lifestyles.
Types of Spanish Residence Permits in 2025
1. Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers)
Launched recently, this visa allows non-EU citizens who work remotely to live in Spain. You’ll need proof of income (€2,500+ per month), a contract with a foreign company, and private insurance.
2. Non-Lucrative Visa (NIE)
Perfect for those who want to live in Spain without working. You’ll need to show sufficient funds (~€28,000/year for one person) and private health insurance.
3. Student Visa
For full-time students enrolled in accredited Spanish institutions. This visa allows part-time work and can be a stepping stone to long-term residency.
4. Golden Visa (investment)
For those investing €500,000+ in Spanish real estate. Fast-track residency, flexible stays, and family inclusion.
5. Family Reunification or Marriage-Based Residence
If your spouse or close relative is a legal resident or citizen of Spain, you may apply for a residence card through family reunification.
6. Work Visa (sponsored employment)
Requires a job offer from a Spanish company and approval from immigration authorities. Most common in in-demand professions.
Launched recently, this visa allows non-EU citizens who work remotely to live in Spain. You’ll need proof of income (€2,500+ per month), a contract with a foreign company, and private insurance.
2. Non-Lucrative Visa (NIE)
Perfect for those who want to live in Spain without working. You’ll need to show sufficient funds (~€28,000/year for one person) and private health insurance.
3. Student Visa
For full-time students enrolled in accredited Spanish institutions. This visa allows part-time work and can be a stepping stone to long-term residency.
4. Golden Visa (investment)
For those investing €500,000+ in Spanish real estate. Fast-track residency, flexible stays, and family inclusion.
5. Family Reunification or Marriage-Based Residence
If your spouse or close relative is a legal resident or citizen of Spain, you may apply for a residence card through family reunification.
6. Work Visa (sponsored employment)
Requires a job offer from a Spanish company and approval from immigration authorities. Most common in in-demand professions.
Best Cities in Spain for Relocation
Valencia
Pros: Affordable housing, Mediterranean climate, excellent healthcare, less touristy than Barcelona.
Ideal for: Families, digital nomads, retirees.
Cons: Smaller expat community than Madrid or Barcelona.
Ideal for: Families, digital nomads, retirees.
Cons: Smaller expat community than Madrid or Barcelona.
Madrid
Pros: Capital city, endless opportunities, vibrant cultural life, large international community.
Ideal for: Professionals, entrepreneurs, students.
Cons: Higher rent, summer heat.
Ideal for: Professionals, entrepreneurs, students.
Cons: Higher rent, summer heat.
Barcelona
Pros: Beaches, cosmopolitan vibe, strong startup ecosystem, international schools.
Ideal for: Creatives, digital nomads, tech workers.
Cons: Tourist crowds, higher cost of living.
Ideal for: Creatives, digital nomads, tech workers.
Cons: Tourist crowds, higher cost of living.
Alicante
Pros: Coastal life, low prices, calm pace, English-speaking expat communities.
Ideal for: Pensioners, relaxed lifestyle seekers.
Cons: Fewer career opportunities.
Ideal for: Pensioners, relaxed lifestyle seekers.
Cons: Fewer career opportunities.
Adapting to Life in Spain: Healthcare, Education & Costs
Healthcare
Spain boasts one of the top-rated healthcare systems in Europe. EU citizens can access public healthcare with the EHIC. Non-EU residents must initially rely on private insurance (required for most visas), but can join the public system after obtaining long-term residency.
Education
Public schools are free but taught in Spanish (or Catalan in some regions). Many expats choose bilingual or international schools, especially in larger cities.
Living Costs
Rent in Valencia: ~€800/month (1BR in city center)
Groceries: ~€250/month per person
Transportation: Monthly pass ~€40
In general, Valencia and Alicante are more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona.
Groceries: ~€250/month per person
Transportation: Monthly pass ~€40
In general, Valencia and Alicante are more affordable than Madrid or Barcelona.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Move
- Start your visa process early — timelines can vary.
- Hire a local immigration lawyer for complex cases.
- Get your documents apostilled and translated (birth certificate, police clearance, proof of income).
- Join expat groups on Facebook or Telegram — they’re goldmines for tips.
Conclusion
Need help with your Spanish residence permit?
Our experts will guide you through every step — from choosing the right visa to submitting your documents.
Book a consultation today.
Our experts will guide you through every step — from choosing the right visa to submitting your documents.
Book a consultation today.