By Johanna Gardener •
Published: 29 Nov 2024 • 22:44
• 2 minutes read
US citizens moving to Spain can apply for work visas amongst several other options Credit:Shutterstock:helloRuby
As a US citizen planning to move to Spain, you ll find various visa options available, but it s essential to understand the different types.
With the imminent elimination of the Golden Visa scheme, a surge of interest has been sparked among those looking to move to Spain before the window of opportunity closes. Among these eager movers, a significant number are from the United States. In recent years, the U.S. has emerged as a major investor in Spanish property. This trend is fuelled, not only by Americans purchasing homes but also by growing interest in relocating to Spain for its lower cost of living, political stability, and convenient access to other EU countries. The shift has been particularly noticeable since the election of Donald Trump, which acted as a catalyst for many Americans exploring the possibility of building a new life abroad. However, while the allure of life under the Spanish sun is undeniable, it’s crucial to understand the practicalities involved—most notably, the visa requirements.
Currently, there are nearly 40,000 Americans living in Spain, enjoying Spain’s magnificent culture, climate and without a doubt, food. For those who aren’t part of this large US expat group, the process and planning can be daunting so let us explain the different visa options available.
From 2025, coming into Spain from non-EU will require a visa waiver
From 2025, anybody coming to Spain, either as a tourist or for a more permanent move will require a visa waiver, known as ETIAS. This needs to be solicited at least 72 hours before your flight and if successful, will be valid for three years or until your passport expires. However, within this, if you are planning to stay in Spain for more than 90 days, an extra type of visa is required.
In total, there are seven visa types. In this article, we are going to focus on work visas.
For all those offered a job from a company in Spain and want to enjoy the same benefits as Spanish residents including rights to minimum wage, free healthcare and 30 days paid holiday leave, there are some benchmark rules. Your company will need to apply for a work visa on your behalf, showing prove that you will be filling a demand or shortage and that an equivalent EU person could not be found. It is advisable that a profile photo and recommendation from somebody Spanish is included in your application.
When the work permit is approved, you can then submit your entrance visa application. With the work permit, you are entitled to live in Spain for one year and you can renew twice with each renewal lasting two years. Once everything is approved and you are in the country, make sure to sign your contract. Then you’re ready to go. Apply for a foreigner ID card and make sure that you are registered for social security and public health insurance.
Highly-skilled visas for managers, government or university positions
Within the parameters of work visas, there are also highly-skilled visas. Those hired to work as a manager within Spain, in a position of senior leadership, contracted by government or by a university as a lecturer or researcher can can apply for a highly skilled visa. This has the added bonus that you can be in Spain already when applying for the visa and can bring your family. The position does not need to be in an in-demand sector and usually visas are approved within a speedy 10 business days. Visas of this calibre last for two years and can be renewed later. Companies, which tend to be large or medium-sized can start the ball rolling for your visa application.
Read more about Property and Investment
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Written by
Johanna Gardener
Originally from Manchester, UK and with a degree in English with Modern Foreign Languages, she has been a permanent resident in Spain for the past 12 years. Many of these years, she has spent working as a secondary school teacher, as well as in journalism, editing and marketing. She currently lives in the historic centre of Malaga, where she enjoys writing, walking and animals.
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