The full guide
How long does it take to move to Spain?
For non-EU citizens, allow about six months from deciding to landing. The visa is the slowest part: gathering apostilled documents takes weeks, and consulates can take up to three months to decide. EU citizens can move straight away and register within three months of arrival.
Six months before: decide and prepare
Task | Checklist |
|---|---|
Choose your visa route | |
Check your documents | |
Research where to live | |
Plan your budget |
Three months before: apply
Task | Checklist |
|---|---|
Buy health insurance | |
Apply for your visa | At your consulate, with every document translated |
Prepare your pets | |
Get removals quotes | Shipping vs selling up |
One month before: get ready to go
Book temporary accommodation for your first one or two months so you can view flats in person and avoid rental scams. Set up a multi-currency account to move money cheaply. Tell your home bank, pension provider and tax office you’re moving. Pack originals of every document in your hand luggage.
Your first week in Spain
Register on the padrón at the town hall. Book your TIE fingerprint appointment straight away, since slots can be hard to find. Get a Spanish SIM so you can receive appointment texts and banking codes.
Your first month
Task | Checklist |
|---|---|
Get your residence card | TIE card (non-EU) within one month of arrival |
Open a bank account | |
Find a long-term rental | |
Get your social security number | Social security number, if you’ll work |
Your first three months
Get a digital certificate so you can do paperwork online. Register for healthcare and get your tarjeta sanitaria. Enrol children in school. If you’re a UK licence holder, exchange your driving licence within six months. If you’re working for a Spanish employer or on the digital nomad visa, look at the Beckham Law within six months of registering with social security.
Moving from a specific country?
See our country guides for moving to Spain from the UK and moving to Spain from the US.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move to Spain without a visa?
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can. Everyone else, including British and American citizens, can stay 90 days in any 180 as a visitor, but needs a residence visa to live in Spain.
What is the first thing to do when I arrive?
Register on the padrón. Most other appointments, including your TIE, healthcare and school places, ask for it.
When do I become a tax resident?
Usually once you spend more than 183 days in a calendar year in Spain, or your main economic interests are here. Plan your tax position before you move.
Related reading: Moving to Spain in 2027: The Complete Guide.
