Q&A

Can I work in Spain as an American?

Can I work in Spain as an American?

Working legally in Spain as an American is very difficult compared to European Union citizens who do not even require a visa to work in Spain. Once you get the offer letter, you need to have get a medical exam, a local police clearance, fill out some forms and go to the Spanish consulate to apply for an entrance visa.

Is it cheaper to live in Spain than the US?

Although not all expats in Madrid are from cities as expensive as San Francisco, it’s undeniable that for Americans, the cost of living in Spain is pretty cheap. According to Expatistan’s cost of living calculator, it’s 27% more expensive to live in the United States than it is to live in Spain.

Is Spain a good place to live?

Spain ranks as the best place in Europe for expats wanting to enjoy life, and second overall, just behind New Zealand. “Rather than living mostly in the expat bubble, experience-hungry expats look for the local culture following their move to the country,” according to the survey.

Is it OK to drink tap water in Spain?

So can I drink the water in Spain? Yes, at least 99.5% of all public tap water in Spain is safe to drink according to international water quality standards. But there are issues such as taste, odor chlorine by-products, microplastics and local pipe contaminants.

How many Americans live and work in Spain?

There are an estimated 95,000 Americans living in Spain. Living in Spain is an incredible experience for a variety of reasons – the culture, climate, food, and wine to name but a few.

Can a US citizen apply to live in Spain?

Yes, Spanish Consulates in the US are accepting and processing NLV for Americans wishing to live in Spain. However, some consulates may be processing faster than others. Per Michael’s comments below, however, you CANNOT choose which consulate to get your NLV from.

What to know when moving to Spain as an American?

Some bars and restaurants stay open to the wee hours of the morning. Likely your apartment windows will be within spitting distance of one or more of them. Get an apartment away from bars and restaurants. Observe and avoid the busier, heavy traffic streets. Getting an apartment on an upper floor will be quieter.

Are there any English speaking agents in Spain?

There are several great agencies that have English speaking agents, but they, in most parts of Spain, are the exception. If you do not speak Spanish, many agents and landlords will not want to deal with you. Understandable. I am the foreigner. Simply cross that agent off your list and try the next, and the next, and the next.

Is it good to live in Spain as an American?

Spain welcomes American retirees on its soil. Because of its incredible diversity and cheap costs of living, retiring in Spain from the US is a fantastic plan. Whether you are looking to live by the sea, in the mountains, or in the countryside, Spain has it all.

Can a US citizen move to Spain without a job?

Tip: if you are moving to Spain from the US without a local job or to retire, you will most likely want to apply for a non-lucrative Visa. Our friend Duane who moved to Spain from Canada created this practical eBook describing exactly how to obtain this visa, which also works for Americans moving to Spain.

Where did I Live before moving to Spain?

For context, we are a couple in our 40’s, we were living in San Diego, California, moving to Valencia, Spain to retire abroad with no children or pets. My children are all now young adults.

Is it cheaper to move to Spain from the US?

If you are planning to move from the US to Spain, you will find that the cost of living in Spain is lower than in the US. The rental costs in Spain is approximately 50% cheaper in Spain than in the US. To give you an estimation cost, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €600 in Spain vs. €1,200 in the US.