Moving to Spain, step by step
Spanish bureaucracy is manageable once you know the sequence. This is a practical guide through the actual process — from before you land to your first tax return. Every step links to an official government source.
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All routes, in sequence
Routes are grouped by when to do them. Each one has the official sources and the exact sequence of steps.
Before you go
Do before you landSpain's Digital Nomad Visa (Ley de Startups) lets remote workers and freelancers live in Spain legally. Apply at a Spanish consulate in your country before travelling.
4–8 weeks from application to decision
The Non-Lucrative Visa is for people with passive income (pensions, investments, savings) who do not intend to work in Spain. It is the most common route for retirees and financially independent movers.
4–8 weeks from application to decision
Non-EU citizens can apply for a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) at any Spanish consulate before moving. It is not required before arrival but can save you weeks of waiting once in Spain.
2–4 weeks (wait for appointment + processing)
Spain's rental market is competitive in Málaga, Madrid, and Barcelona. Understanding the process — from search to signing — avoids costly mistakes. Landlords often require a Spanish bank account, employment contract, or payslips.
2–8 weeks from search to keys
First week
Do in the first 7 daysEmpadronamiento is mandatory address registration at your local town hall. Without it you cannot access the public health system, some banking, and other services. Do this within your first week in Spain.
30 minutes at the town hall
If you did not get a NIE before arriving, you can apply in Spain at the nearest Oficina de Extranjeros or Comisaría de Policía Nacional. This is required before opening a bank account, signing contracts, or registering for taxes.
1–3 weeks including wait for appointment
First month
Do in the first monthThe Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual (TSI) is your access card to Spain's public healthcare system. It is free and entitles you to treatment at public health centres, hospitals, and specialists.
30 minutes at a health centre
A Spanish bank account is essential for paying rent, utilities, and receiving local transfers. Some landlords and employers require one. It is best to open one in your first month.
1–3 days
First 3 months
Do in the first 3 monthsYour Número de Afiliación a la Seguridad Social (NAF) is required to work in Spain, register as autónomo, or access public healthcare through social contributions. Register at your local INSS office.
30–60 minutes at INSS
Autónomo registration is required for any self-employed work in Spain, including freelancing for foreign clients. It involves registering with both the Tax Authority (Hacienda) and Social Security. Monthly contributions start at €225 (reduced rate).
1–2 days (once you have all prerequisites)
The Startup Law (Ley 28/2022) extended the Beckham Law tax regime to Digital Nomad Visa holders. It offers a flat 24% tax rate on Spanish-source income instead of the progressive rate (up to 47%). You must apply within 6 months of registering as a Spanish tax resident.
1–2 weeks (application to confirmation)
On sources and accuracy
Every step in every route links to an official Spanish government website. We do not link to service providers, law firms, or intermediaries. If a practical step cannot be traced to an official source, it is not in the guide.
Spanish law changes. Always cross-check before acting, particularly for visa requirements and tax deadlines. See something out of date? Let us know.