Living & Working in Spain: Your Complete 2025 Guide

From visas and taxes to cost of living and healthcare—everything you need to successfully relocate to Spain as an expat or digital nomad.

✅ Expert Verified
📅 Updated September 12, 2025
👥 Trusted by 1000+ Expats
Expats living and working in Spain - modern lifestyle with Spanish architecture and workspace

Your New Life in Spain Awaits

Join the growing community of successful expats and digital nomads

Spain vs. Your Home Country: What to Expect

Real comparisons based on expat experiences and official data

CategorySpainvs. UK/USYour Benefit
Cost of Living€1,200-2,500/month50% less than London/NYCMore disposable income
HealthcareFree public systemvs $400+/month US insurance€5,000+ annual savings
Work-Life Balance2-hour lunch breaksvs 30-min lunch breaksBetter quality of life
Climate300+ sunny daysvs 65 days in LondonImproved mental health

Ready to Start Your Spanish Adventure?

Follow our proven step-by-step process used by 1000+ successful expats

1️⃣

Plan & Research

Calculate costs, check visa eligibility, choose your city

2️⃣

Apply & Prepare

Submit visa application, gather documents, plan your move

3️⃣

Settle & Thrive

Register with authorities, open bank account, enjoy Spanish life

Tools & Resources for Expats

Practical tools and calculators to help plan your move to Spain

🧮

Cost Calculator

Compare living costs between your current city and major Spanish cities

Calculate Costs

Visa Eligibility

Check if you qualify for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa with our interactive assessment

Check Eligibility
📋

Document Checklist

Complete checklist of all documents needed for Spanish residency applications

Get Checklist

Expert Insights: What You Need to Know

Key insights from immigration lawyers, tax advisors, and long-term expats

🚨 Critical Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying for Digital Nomad Visa while already in Spain as tourist
  • Missing the 6-month Beckham Law application deadline
  • Not getting proper apostille on FBI background checks
  • Underestimating total income requirements for family members

💡 Pro Tips for Success

  • Start FBI background check process 2-4 weeks before application
  • Apply directly in Spain for 3-year permit vs 1-year consulate visa
  • Get comprehensive health insurance before arrival
  • Plan tax residency timing to maximize Beckham Law benefits

Ready to Make Spain Your Home?

Start with our most popular guide: the Digital Nomad Visa with tax benefits