Your team of real estate law specialists on the Spanish Mediterranean coast
When purchasing property abroad, having experienced legal support is essential. At USpania, we are proud to partner with Fuster & Associates, a reputable law firm with extensive expertise in Spanish property law, international transactions, and support for clients in the U.S.
Fuster & Associates provides our clients with a seamless, reliable process, ensuring every legal detail is thoroughly managed on both sides of the Atlantic.
From contract review to tax guidance and residency applications, Fuster & Associates is here to protect your interests and make your property investment in Spain secure and straightforward, whether you are in Spain or the U.S.
Who are Fuster & Associates?
Fuster & Associates is an independent law firm founded in 1997 with offices in different areas on the Mediterranean coast and with experience working for European and non-European citizens.
Well-known in the Spanish real estate sector for professionalism and diligence, they have provided clients with consistently excellent results.
More than 10,000 clients have bought Spanish properties for retirement, vacation homes, and investment under the guidance and security of Fuster & Associates’ property and immigration lawyers and tax experts.
Why choose Fuster & Associates?
Excellence
Fuster & Associates brings a proven commitment to excellence, with a track record that reflects years of success and dedication to client satisfaction. Their reputation speaks for itself, underscoring their expertise and reliability.
Proven Results
With a history of delivering favorable outcomes, Fuster & Associates has earned the trust of clients in even the most complex legal situations. Their experience in Spanish property law and international transactions ensures clients are in capable hands.
Client-Centric Approach
About Maria Jose Sanchez
Business Development Manager & visa expert
My name is Maria Jose, and I currently serve as the Business Development Manager within the Marketing Department at Fuster & Associates Solicitors. In this role, I am responsible for driving business growth and developing new legal services tailored to meet the evolving needs of our clients. Additionally, I am an active member of our Immigration Department, where I specialize as a visa expert.
Over the course of my professional career, I have held various positions across different sectors. I began in the financial industry, where I worked for more than a decade as a Bank Manager, focusing on non-resident clients interested in purchasing property and investing in Spain.
In 2008, I moved to the United Kingdom with my husband and two young children, where we lived for nearly ten years. I took this opportunity to pursue certification from the Cervantes Institute to teach Spanish as a foreign language. I later taught Spanish to over 100 employees of the Santander Bank in the UK. This experience provided me with a deeper understanding of cross-cultural communication and how to adapt methods to present information effectively.
When I returned to Spain in 2018 to join Fuster & Associates, my previous work in banking and teaching proved valuable in understanding and explaining to international clients the legal requirements in buying property, investing, relocating, or working in Spain. Ongoing university-level training in immigration law enables me to offer up-to-date visa solutions. Collaborating closely with our legal, immigration, and tax departments, I strive to deliver comprehensive and client-focused legal guidance.
Unlike traditional firms, Fuster & Associates offers truly personalized service. Maria Jose Sanchez will be your dedicated point of contact from start to finish — no waiting in line at a branch, no back-and-forth with random staff.
You will have:
· Direct access to her email and phone
· Timely replies — even outside typical business hours
· Guidance tailored to U.S. clients, including time zone flexibility
Book your free appointment with Maria Jose
We offer a free 30-minute consultation with Maria Jose, an expert in immigration processes and visa applications. During this meeting, she will help you determine which type of visa best suits your situation and answer any questions you may have about the process.
Alternatively, the consultation can focus on purchasing real estate in Spain, either as a non-resident investment or for permanent residence. Buying property in Spain is a popular investment among foreign nationals, but it involves complex legal and financial considerations. Maria Jose can guide you through the important aspects to ensure a secure and legally compliant transaction, including real closing services.
During your session, you will be able to:
- Receive personalized guidance on the visa that best fits your situation.
- Learn about the requirements, timelines, and steps involved.
- Get answers to any questions about living, investing, or retiring in Spain.
- Understand better how the most common visas work, including the non-lucrative visa, student visa, work visa, and visas for religious purposes.
Purchasing real estate in Spain
Purchasing real estate in Spain is a common investment among foreign nationals, but it involves complex legal and financial considerations. Engaging a qualified attorney is critical to ensure a secure and legally compliant transaction.
Key legal services offered by our specialized attorneys:
- Legal due diligence on the property, including verification with the Property Registry and Cadastral Office, and identification of any liens or encumbrances.
- Drafting and review of the purchase agreement.
- Assistance with obtaining a Spanish Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and opening a bank account.
- Coordination and execution of the public deed of sale before a notary.
- Payment of the transfer tax and other legal fees.
- Registration of the property in the official Spanish property registry.
Real estate closing services:
1. Purchase process and due diligence: 1.2% from the purchase process, minimum €1,500 + Tax (approx. $1,758.07).
Solicitor’s fees key features:
Prepare the power of attorney (power of attorney notary fees not included), check the purchase contract, ensure property is free of charges, check legal and fiscal situation of the property, liaise with the seller and prepare for completion, open bank account, payment management through our escrow bank account, check deeds at notary and sign on your behalf, record deeds in property register, payment of associated taxes and stamp duty, collection of keys, change of utilities ownership, and organize direct debit through client´s bank account.
2. Tourist license for holiday and short rentals: For those buying as an investment, we will manage their application for a license so the property can be advertised on websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com, and they will meet all the legal requirements.
Visa types, residency options, and Spanish citizenship
Differences between the visa systems in Spain and the United States
Unlike the United States, in Spain and throughout most of Europe, a visa typically functions as a residence permit.
The process of obtaining a Spanish visa is more bureaucratic. For example, it requires more documentation, legalization, and apostilles. For this reason, it is always recommended to hire an immigration lawyer to guide you through the process and avoid delays or mistakes.
However, Spain and Europe tend to be more flexible when it comes to approving visas.
On the other hand, the United States system is more streamlined, digitalized, and follows well-defined timelines but is much more strict. Even with an approved visa, a customs and border protection officer at the airport may deny entry.
Visa vs Residence: are they the same in Spain?
Yes, in most cases, a visa in Spain is equivalent to a residence permit. Non-EU citizens can obtain temporary residency from day one if they enter Spain with a residence visa (such as a non-lucrative visa, work visa, student visa, etc.).
This type of residency is typically valid for 1 year and can be renewed for 2 years + 2 more years, reaching a total of 5 years. When the consulate approves the visa, it is essentially approving a residence permit. For example, if non- EU citizens want to live legally in Spain, they must first apply for a visa. That visa serves as their residence permit, usually valid for one year and renewable. After legally residing in Spain for five years, they may apply for long-term residency.
However, if a non-EU citizen is married to an EU citizen, he or she can register directly in Spain, and the non-EU spouse will be granted residency without needing a visa.
The non-lucrative visa
Yes, in most cases, a visa in Spain is equivalent to a residence permit. A non-EU citizen can obtain temporary residency from day one if he or she enters Spain with a residence visa (such as a non-lucrative visa, work visa, student visa, etc.).
This type of residency is typically valid for 1 year and can be renewed for 2 years + 2 more years, reaching a total of 5 years. When the consulate approves the visa, it is essentially approving a residence permit. For example, if non- EU citizens want to live legally in Spain, they must first apply for a visa. That visa serves as their residence permit, usually valid for one year and renewable. After legally residing in Spain for five years, they may apply for long-term residency.
However, if the non-EU citizen is married to an EU citizen, he or she can register directly in Spain, and the non-EU spouse will be granted residency without needing a visa.
Changing your visa status
In most cases (except for religious purposes), there is an option to change your visa status after one year. For example, you can change your visa from a non-lucrative or student visa to a work visa, either as a self-employed professional or as an employee hired by a company. However, this change depends on your individual circumstances and whether you meet the legal requirements.
Long-term residency
A non-EU citizen may apply for long-term residency after 5 years of legal and continuous visa/residence in Spain. This includes time spent under a non-lucrative visa, work visa, etc.
Spanish citizenship
Citizenship is not the same as residency.
Citizens from Latin America, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, countries of Sephardic origin, or from Andorra may apply after 2 years of legal residence in Spain.
Individuals married to a Spanish citizen, regardless of their country of origin, may also apply for citizenship after 2 years of legal residence if the marriage is legally registered and the couple has lived together during that time.
Non-European applicants must wait 10 years of legal residence before applying.
What happens if someone enters as a tourist and stays?
This is not recommended. If a person enters Spain as a tourist and stays more than 90 days without a visa, he or she will be considered undocumented, and that time will not count toward legal residency. Residency time only starts once a legal visa or residence permit is obtained.
This visa allows non-EU foreign nationals to legally reside in Spain for one year without engaging in any professional or employment activity. The visa covers both the main applicant and eligible family members. It can be renewed for additional two-year periods and, after five years of continuous residency, the applicant may qualify for permanent or long-term residency status—an important step toward Spanish citizenship.
Note for Hispanic and Latin American citizens the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, countries of Sephardic origin, or from Andorra may apply after 2 years of legal residence in Spain.
Ideal for
- Retirees who wish to live in Spain.
- Individuals with sufficient financial resources to support themselves without working.
- People planning to apply for a work permit in the future.
Benefits of the Non-Lucrative Visa
- Family members can apply for residency at the same time.
- Freedom to travel within the EU and Schengen Area.
- Long-term residency eligibility after five years.
- Residency time counts toward eligibility for Spanish citizenship.
Visa requirements
- Initial Application: The initial application must be submitted at a Spanish Consulate. Our team is available to assist you with verifying the required documentation and translating any official documents to ensure the application process proceeds smoothly and to minimize the risk of denial.
- Entry and Residency: Once approved, you must enter Spain within three months. Upon arrival, you will have one month to obtain your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE), and we will assist you to obtain an appointment.
- Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability by providing a bank certificate or pension letters indicating a minimum balance of €28,800 (Approx. $36,600.00) which is Approximately 400% of the IPREM for the primary applicant. An additional €7,200 (Approx. $8,400.00) which is 100% of IPREM and is required for each family member. This amount doubles for the renewal after the first year. (Figures from 2025. This will be different every year).
Health Insurance: You must provide proof of health insurance coverage with no copays nor waiting periods, with a company authorized to operate in Spain, such as Adeslas or Axa. The insurance policy must cover all risks typically covered by Spain’s public health system. Travel insurance is not acceptable.
- Criminal Records: A clean criminal record from the past five years is required through the FBI.
Renewal Process: After the first year, we can assist you with renewing your visa. This renewal can be for a NLV again or in case the applicant finds a job, for a Working visa.
Price:
€1,500 + Tax (Approx. $1,758.07).
This visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely from Spain, provided their income is primarily derived from a company based outside of Spain. Applicants may work for a Spanish company, so long as those earnings do not exceed 20 percent of their total income.
Note: Americans who are legally in Spain can apply for the Nomad Visa – Telework Residency Permit directly from within Spain, without needing to first obtain a Nomad Visa from a Spanish consulate in the U.S.
If the application is submitted from within Spain through a law firm, applicants may be granted up to three years of residency.*
However, if the application is made through a Spanish consulate or embassy in the United States, the residency will initially be granted for one year but is renewable.
You can apply from within Spain if you are
A U.S. citizen legally in Spain without a visa (for example, U.S. passport holders may stay in Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period), or
A U.S. citizen legally in Spain with a valid visa (any type of visa, such as a tourist visa) during the validity period of that visa.
*It is highly recommended to schedule a consultation with the law firm before traveling to Spain. This allows you to submit all the required documentation in advance, ensuring that once you arrive in Spain, there are no delays or misunderstandings due to missing paperwork.
Ideal for
Remote employees working for companies headquartered outside of Spain.
Freelancers or self-employed individuals with international clients who work while traveling.
Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa
Can be processed via a Spanish consulate (valid for one year) or directly in Spain (initial validity of three years).
Family members may accompany the applicant.
Long-term residency available after five years.
Residency time counts toward Spanish citizenship eligibility.
Fast processing time: approximately 15–20 business days.
Eligible for favorable tax treatment under Spain’s special regime.
Visa requirements
1. If the applicant is an employee of a company located outside of Spain, a letter signed by the HR manager, chief, manager, or director stating that the applicant has worked for that company for at least the three months prior to applying for the visa must be presented. In addition, the letter must contain the following information:
The term of the contract if there is one; at-will employees do not have contracts but letter should state an expectation of the job’s duration.
The company’s explicit consent or directive to work remotely in Spain.
A well-crafted job description.
The last three months’ payroll records or pay stubs.
If the applicant is self-employed, a statement describing the length of the contractual relationship for the assignment and the terms and conditions to work remotely in Spain must be presented.
2. Certificate of Fact–Status from the division of corporations within the secretary of state’s office in each state (a similar institution to the Mercantile Registry in Spain), showing the date of constitution of the company and the type of activity performed. This certificate must prove real and continuous activity for at least one year of the company or group of companies with which the worker maintains a labor or professional relationship.
This document must be apostilled and submitted together with an official translation into Spanish.
3. Proof of financialmeans
Applicants must provide documentation showing sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their accompanying family members, if applicable. The minimum required amount for 2025 is:
• 200% of the Spanish minimum monthly wage (approximately €2,268) (Approx. $2,650.00) for the applicant.
• An additional 75% of the monthly wage for the first accompanying family member.
• An additional 25% for each additional family member.
4. Criminal backgroundcheck from the FBI for the past 5 years.
5. Health insurance
Proof of coverage with no copays nor waiting periods with a company authorized to operate in Spain, such as Adeslas or Axa. The insurance policy must cover all risks typically covered by Spain’s public health system. Travel insurance is not acceptable
6. Proof of coverage in the Social Security System
Responsible Declaration by the solicitant company (if the applicant is an employee) or the applicant, stating commitment to comply with Social Security system obligations before starting any work-related activity.
Certificate of Coverage issued by the US Social Security, indicating that the worker meets the conditions of the US – Spain Agreement on Social Security (in case of coverage by international standard of coordination of Social Security Systems, as the US–Spain Agreement, regarding retirement, survivors, and disability insurance). In this case, the applicant must add proof that other risks insured by Spain’s public health system are covered by a public or private health insurance policy.
Self-employed applicants must provide proof of registration in the RETA (Regimen de Trabajadores Autonomos de la Seguridad Social Española, The Special Regime for Self-Employed Workers of Spain’s social security). This will be managed by our Fiscal & Tax Department.
7. Proof of qualifications and experience
Official transcripts (one original and one copy) from an accredited college or university showing award of a bachelor or postgraduate degree, or from an accredited technical or business school, equivalent documents proving the applicant has at least 3 years of training work experience in the current field of activity.
To practice a regulated profession, accreditation of the necessary qualifications must be provided.
If there are doubts about the equivalence of a vocational training qualification in the Spanish education system, accreditation of the qualification’s validation by the competent educational authority may be required.
8. Resume showing all relevant qualifications and previous employers, confirming that the applicant has at least 3 years of experience in his/her business activity.
Prices of legal services
• €2,500 + Tax (Approx. $2,930.11) for the main applicant, plus
• €995 + Tax (Approx. $1,166.18) per spouse/couple, plus
• €600 + Tax (Approx. $703.23) per child.
This visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain for those who have completed higher education studies and have received an offer in a managerial or technical position earning more than €50,000 per year (Approx.$58,000 USD). There is no single rule that applies in all cases. Depending on how the requirements are fulfilled, a candidate’s professional profile may fit the application for this work residence visa.
Note: Americans who are legally in Spain can apply for the Highly Qualified Professional Visa directly from within Spain, without needing to first obtain a Highly Qualified Professional Visa from a Spanish consulate in the U.S.
If the application is submitted from within Spain through a law firm, applicants may be granted up to three years of residency.*
However, if the application is made through a Spanish consulate or embassy in the United States, the residency will initially be granted for one year but is renewable.
You can apply from within Spain if you are
- A U.S. citizen legally in Spain without a visa (for example, U.S. passport holders may stay in Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period), or
- A U.S. citizen legally in Spain with a valid visa (any type of visa, such as a tourist visa) during the validity period of that visa.
*It is highly recommended to schedule a consultation with the law firm before traveling to Spain. This allows you to submit all the required documentation in advance, ensuring that once you arrive in Spain, there are no delays or misunderstandings due to missing paperwork.
Ideal for
- Working in Spain for a Spanish or international company if you have been offered a managerial, technical, or highly specialized position.
- If you already work for a U.S. company that has a branch or subsidiary in Spain, and you are being transferred to a high-level or technical position.
Benefits of the Highly Qualified Professional Visa
- Can be processed via a Spanish consulate (valid for one year) or directly in Spain (initial validity of three years).
- Family members may accompany the applicant.
- Long-term residency available after five years.
- Residency time counts toward Spanish citizenship eligibility.
- Fast processing time: approximately 15–20 business days.
- Eligible for favorable tax treatment under Spain’s special regime.
- Eligible for Spanish national health system (applicant and family.)
- This visa is regulated under the Entrepreneurs Law (2013), so it is faster and less bureaucratic than standard work permits.
Visa requirements
- Proof of financialmeans
Applicants must provide documentation showing sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their accompanying family members, if applicable. The minimum gross monthly salary required for 2025 is €4,166.
- Criminal backgroundcheck from the FBI for the past 5 years.
- 3. Full-coverage Social Security insurance in Spain (provided by the company)
Proof of qualifications and experience
- Description of the job position, explaining the tasks and the conditions required, and proof of meeting qualification standards.
- Bachelor, master, or doctor of philosophy degree granted by any university, college, or business school accepted by UGE (University General Education) and documented by official transcripts and diplomas that have been apostilled/legalized and certified translated, or proof of 3 years of experience in the same job position (certificates issued by the same company making the job offer or others, plus official administrative documents, duly apostilled/legalized and certified translated into Spanish.
- Resume showing all relevant qualifications and previous employers, confirming that the applicant has at least 3 years of experience in his/her business activity.
- Work contract that proves the business relationship.
- A written offer of a job in Spain.
- Documents from the company
- Constitution deed (through the secretary of state’s office in the state where company’s main office or headquarters is located).
- DNI/NIE of the legal representative (Spanish ID number).
- CIF number of the company (Employer Identification Number).
- Certificate of debts from Spanish Tax Agency and Social Security (IRS Tax Compliance Certificate).
Prices of legal services
• €2,500 + Tax (Approx. $2,930.11) for the main applicant, plus
• €995 + Tax (Approx. $1,166.18) per spouse/couple, plus
• €600 + Tax (Approx. $703.23) per child.
2. Company certificate confirming the employee’s tenure (at least 3 months), income, and explicit permission to work remotely from Spain.
3. Proof of financial means Applicants must provide documentation showing sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their accompanying family members, if applicable. The minimum required amount for 2025 is:
• 200% of the Spanish minimum monthly wage (approximately €2,268) (Approx. $2,650.00) for the applicant.
• An additional 75% of the monthly wage for the first accompanying family member.
• An additional 25% for each additional family member.
4. Criminal background check from the FBI for the past 5 years.
5. Health insurance
Proof of coverage with no copays nor waiting periods with a company authorized to operate in Spain, such as Adeslas or Axa. The insurance policy must cover all risks typically covered by Spain’s public health system. Travel insurance is not acceptable.
6. Proof of coverage in the Social Security System
• A written declaration by the company if the applicant is an employee or the applicant if self-employed, stating applicant’s or company’s commitment to comply with Social Security system obligations before starting any work-related activity.
7. Proof of qualifications and experience
• Official transcripts and a copy of the university degree or professional certificate proving applicant is qualified for his/her job.
8. Resume showing all relevant qualifications and previous employers, confirming that the applicant has at least 3 years of experience in his/her business activity.
Prices of legal services
• €2,500 + Tax (Approx. $2,930.11) for the main applicant, plus.
• €995 + Tax (Approx. $1,166.18) per spouse/couple, plus.
• €600 + Tax (Approx. $703.23) per child.
If you are a U.S. citizen and have been offered a job by a company based in Spain, you may qualify for a Work Visa. This visa allows you to live and work in Spain legally as a full-time employee under contract.
Whom is this for?
- U.S. citizens who have secured a job offer from a Spanish employer.
Typically granted for specialized roles or positions that are difficult to fill locally. - Common industries including tech, education, engineering, and hospitality.
Requirements
Option 1: Working as an employee (cuenta ajena)
- A signed employment contract from a Spanish company.
- The employer must initiate the work authorization application on your behalf before you apply for the visa.
- Proof of qualifications or professional experience related to the job.
- Background check and medical certificate.
Proof of accommodation in Spain. - Valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Payment of visa fees.
Option 2: Self-employment (cuenta propia)
Among other requirements, a business plan must be submitted. Our support will be provided throughout the process.
- Benefits
- Legal residence and permission to work full-time in Spain.
- Renewable residence permit (usually valid for one year, renewable up to five years).
- Possibility to bring family members through family reunification.
- Pathway to permanent residency and eventually Spanish citizenship.
- Access to Spain’s public health care and social security system.
- After a certain period, flexibility to change employers or work independently (with proper authorization).
Important notes
- You cannot apply for this visa while in Spain on a tourist visa. The process must begin in your home country (or legal country of residence).
- Once granted, you will receive a residence card with work authorization (TIE – Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjera).
Price
€1,500 + Tax (Approx. $1,758.07).
The student visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain while enrolled in an accredited public or private educational institution leading to a degree or certificate.
The maximum duration of the student visa will be adjusted to the length of the study program.
Benefits of the Student Visa
- Allows students to work up to 30 hours per week.
- Facilitates transition to a work permit after graduation.
- Students may bring their family members to reside with them in Spain.
- Two lengths of stay (short and long) available to fit study programs.
Ideal for
- Short-term studies of 91-180 days total (non-renewable).
A university semester or two quarters of study abroad would fit this category, as would a 6-month certificate program. *See lists below.
- Long-term studies, the visa is valid from one month before the start of the program until fifteen days after it ends.
This would suit a university degree program. *See lists below.
Visa Requirements
- Legal authorization signed by parent(s) or legal guardian(s) if the student is less than 18 years old and does not come accompanied by his or her parents or guardians.
- Medical certificatedemonstrating that the applicant does not suffer from any disease recognized by the International Health Regulation of 2005.
- 3. Health insurance policy with full coverage and no copayments with a company authorized to operate in Spain.
- Clear criminal record check (FBI for U.S. citizens) for the last five years if the student is of legal age (18 or older) and plans to stay more than 6 months.
- Proof of sufficient funds
A bank balance of €7,200 (approximately $7,800 USD), equivalent to 100% of the annual IPREM (€600/month x 12 months), as required for the student visa. The IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income) is the official benchmark set by the Spanish government to assess minimum income requirements for various legal and administrative procedures, including visas, public aid, and scholarships.
To bring a spouse or registered civil partner and children under 18 years old, you will be required to demonstrate the possession of an extra 75% of the IPREM for the first relative, and 50% more for any additional one.
- Admission letter from the university or school
- Accommodation: Specific information about the place where the student will be living, such as the exact street address, lease or rental documents, or if staying with a relative, the name, etc.
- Foreigner’s Residency card must be obtained if the student is staying for longer than 6 months (Tarjeta Identidad de Extranjeros, TIE).
- Documents must be properly legalized, translated into Spanish, and submitted either to a Spanish Consulate or in Spain and no later than 2 months before the course start date.
Price
€1,500 + Tax (Approx. $1,758.07).
*Examples of qualifying programs
Higher education
In face-to-face or hybrid mode. For non-university studies, a minimum of 50% attendance is required.
– Official university studies
– University-specific degrees
– Higher arts education in face-to-face or hybrid mode
– Higher vocational training
– Higher professional training in fine arts and design
– Higher sports training
Completion of post-compulsory secondary education
In face-to-face or blended mode (a minimum of 50% of face-to-face attendance is required).
– Baccalaureate
– Professional artistic education in music and dance
– Intermediate vocational training
– Intermediate level professional plastic arts and design education
– Intermediate level sports education
Options after Your Studies: Switching from a Student Visa to a Work Visa
Once studies are completed, a student can change her or his student visa to a work visa. There are several options available, but it is essential to begin the process within 90 days before the student visa expires.
Below are the different options available for changing from a student visa to a work visa:
- Work Visa
Option 1: Working as an employee (cuenta ajena)
A job offer is required with a minimum of 30 hours per week and a contract of at least one year. Our support will be provided throughout the process.
Option 2: Self-employment (cuenta propia)
Among other requirements, a business plan must be submitted. Our support will be provided throughout the process.
- Highly Qualified Professional Visa
Highly qualified workers: After spending at least one year in Spain as a student, it is possible to apply for a work permit as a highly qualified worker. The job must be in a managerial or technical position, with a salary over €40,000 per year. Our support will be provided throughout the process.
It is important to note that if the position or company changes, a new application will be required.
Note
Student Visa modification to search for a job: For a student who has been in Spain for a year and has not been able to find a job, her or his stay can be extended for an additional year to find a job in Spain or create her or his own company.
Resident authorization for internships: After studies are complete, a student may apply for a residence permit for an internship. This can be obtained through a contract with a company or through an internship agreement signed by the university. The duration of this permit depends on the terms of the contract or agreement.
This residence permit is available to non-EU citizens who plan to launch an innovative business in Spain that contributes economic value and investment potential.
Benefits of the Entrepreneur Visa
- Can be processed through a consulate (valid for one year) or directly in Spain (initial validity of three years).
- Eligible family members can apply for residency at the same time.
- Long-term residency available after five years.
- Residency period counts toward citizenship eligibility.
- Fast processing: approximately 15–20 business days.
Visa Requirements
To qualify for the entrepreneur visa, your business idea must be significantly new and not currently available in the Spanish market. It should also have economic interest for Spain, so not all types of businesses are eligible.
The project can be large or small, but as a rule, it must be innovative and offer something that does not yet exist in Spain.
A key requirement is to submit a detailed business plan outlining how you will secure financing, manage operations, execute marketing strategies, and generate employment opportunities that benefit the Spanish economy.
Our business lawyers will guide you through every step of establishing your business in Spain and help you optimize your taxes.
Price
€2,500 + Tax (Approx. $2,930.11) + Cost for creating the company in Spain.
This temporary residence permit is for non-EU citizens who are ministers, members of a religious order, or representatives of legally recognized religious institutions in Spain. Activities must be exclusively religious or contemplative.
Benefits of the Religious Purpose Visa
- May be processed either through the consulate or within Spain.
- Granted for the duration of the activity, up to one year, with the option to renew twice for up to two years each.
Visa requirements
Since this is a highly specific type of visa, it is important to evaluate the circumstances of the religious affiliation as well as the individual situation of each applicant.
This residency permit allows Spaniards or those who have obtained Spanish citizenship to bring their close family members (spouse, minor children, or dependent parents) to live with them legally in Spain. The family members receive legal residency status and the right to work. The initial permit is usually granted for five years and can be renewed. After five years family members may apply for long-term residency, which is an important step toward Spanish citizenship.
Ideal for
- Spaniards who want to reunite with their spouse, children, or dependent parents in Spain
- Families de Spaniards who are seeking to live together legally in Spain.
- Spaniards who want to ensure their family members have access to free healthcare, free education, and employment opportunities
Benefits of Residency for Spouses and Family of EU Citizens
- Family members gain legal residency and can live together in Spain.
- Most family members have the right to work legally.
- Access to public healthcare and education.
- Time spent residing counts toward eligibility for long-term residency and Spanish citizenship.
- Promotes family unity and stability during relocation.
Requirements
The first requirement to apply for residency is to arrive in Spain. Once you are in the country, it is highly recommended to complete these procedures with the help of an immigration lawyer to ensure the process is handled correctly and to avoid delays or complications.
You may remain in Spain legally for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. During this time, it is important to begin the residency application process, especially if you are applying for family reunification.
First steps upon arrival in Spain
One of the first steps is to register the foreign spouse or husband (empadronamiento) at the local town hall where you will be living. The registration certificate is one of the key documents required to apply for residency.
Required documents to apply for residency
To submit your application at the local Immigration Office, you will need the following:
- Residency application form for family members of EU citizens, signed by the applicant (Form EX-19)
- Three color passport-size photos with a white background
- Registration certificates (empadronamiento) for both spouses
- Family book (Libro de familia)
- Valid foreign passport
- Marriage certificate
- Spanish spouse’s national ID (DNI)
- Spanish spouse’s social security card or private health insurance (you can get a quote and purchase it here for a better price)
- Spanish spouse’s work contract; if unemployed, proof of financial means from the foreign spouse (at least €13,000 ($15,197.57) in a Spanish bank account)
- Proof of payment of the applicable government fee
Process and Timelines
Once these documents are submitted to Immigration, you will be assigned a NIE number (foreigner identification number). The NIE includes your full name, place of birth, and the number assigned by Immigration. It does not include a photo or your address in Spain. A few days later, you will receive a notice stating whether your residency application has been approved.
In some provinces, the decision may take two months or more.
Notice: If your visa or authorized stay expires while you are waiting, you cannot be expelled from the country while your application is under review.
Residency Card
Once your right to residency as a family member of an EU citizen has been approved, you must go to the police station to apply for your physical residency card (TIE). This card includes your NIE number, your photo, the type of residency you have, and its duration.
This application must be submitted within one month of receiving the approval notice. You will need to book an appointment in advance.
If you have been living in Spain for several years and would like to stay for the long run, you have two options: citizenship or long-term residency; both options will grant you the possibility to live in Spain permanently. Nevertheless, there are a few differences between these two possibilities.
Residency
• If you have lived in the country for 5 years, you can apply for long-term residency in Spain.
• This kind of permit grants non-EU citizens the possibility to stay in Spain for the long run. You just need to renew your residency card every five years.
• With this residency, you will be able to live and work in Spain with the same rights as a Spanish national. You will also be able to travel freely around the EU.
• However, since you are not a national, you will not be able to vote in Spanish elections.
Therefore, applying for a long-term residency is more straightforward and has fewer requirements than obtaining citizenship.
Citizenship
However, if you are still interested in obtaining Spanish citizenship, there are three different ways:
• Citizenship by residency
• Citizenship by origin
• Citizenship by option
Citizenship by residency
The length of time you need to live in Spain to get citizenship by residency varies, depending upon your situation, family ties, and country of origin.
• The general rule is 10 years.
• Five years if you are a refugee.
• Two years if you are from any Latin American country, from Andorra, Equatorial Guinea, Philippines, or Portugal. In these cases, you will not need to give up your former and original nationality, as you can get dual citizenship.
• One year for those married to a Spanish national or children born abroad of parents who are or were Spanish citizens born in Spain.
Citizenship by origin
This is the process by which the individual acquires the nationality automatically as a child of Spanish parents. Those who were born in Spain to foreign parents can become Spanish citizens if at least one of their parents was born in Spain, too.
Citizenship by option
Those who are or have been under the parental authority of a Spanish citizen are eligible to apply for citizenship. If one of your parents used to be Spanish and was born in Spain, you can apply.
Lastly, if you are adopted by Spanish parents after you turn 18, you have two years from the adoption date to decide if you want to become a citizen.
€2,500 + Tax (Approx. $2,930.11).
Fuster & Associates office locations
Los Alcazares
Edificio Europa
Avda.de la Libertad
301, Los Alcazares
30710 Murcia, Spain
La Zenia
CC. Bellavista
CN-332, km49
Orihuela Costa
03189 Alicante, Spain
Teulada
Avda.del Mediterraneo
95, Teulada
03725 Alicante, Spain
Finestrat
C.NegociosTerra Mar
Avda. Pais Valencia 7
Polg. Ind. La Cala
03509 Alicante, Spain
San Juan de los Terreros – Pulpi
C/ Columbia, 3 Local 11 San Juan de Los Terreros 04648, Almería
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