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Spain Healthcare Statistics, Trends & Facts (2025)

Spain has one of the [most inclusive](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30277216/) and [most efficient](https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2023/12/spain-country-health-profile-2023_727a7995/71d029b2-en.pdf) healthcare systems in Europe. [**99\.5%**](https://eurohealthobservatory.who.int/monitors/health-systems-monitor/analyses/hspm/spain-2018/new-reform-on-the-breadth-of-the-spanish-health-system) **of the population is covered by the public health system**, and the country boasts **the** [**highest life expectancy in the EU**](https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20250314-3), despite spending less than many of its neighbors.


This post breaks down Spain’s healthcare statistics and trends, including **life expectancy**, **health expenditures**, **private insurance rates**, and **causes of death**.


## Key Spanish Healthcare Statistics – Top Picks


A quick look at the headline numbers shaping Spain’s health system:


- **10\.7% of GDP** goes toward healthcare (EU average: **11%**)
- **27 countries** spend more on healthcare per capita than Spain
- **Circulatory diseases** caused **26\.2%** of deaths in 2023
- **Cancers** accounted for **25\.6%** of deaths
- **28%** of Spanish residents (**12\.4M people**) have private health insurance
- **82%** of Spanish civil servants use private insurance


## Spain population statistics


Spain’s population continues to grow modestly while remaining majority urban.


- **49\.15 million** total population (as of April 2025\)
- Net increase of **\+75,865** people in Q1 2025 (**\+0\.16%**)
- The Spanish population is expected to grow by **0\.64%** in 2025\.
- **79\.3%** live in urban areas; **20\.7%** in rural zones
- **49%** male (**24\.11M**); **51%** female (**25\.04M**)
- **86%** Spanish citizens; **14%** foreign nationals


Source: [Worldometer](https://www.worldometers.info/demographics/spain-demographics/), [Spanish Statistical Office](https://www.ine.es/dyngs/Prensa/en/ECP1T25.htm)


### Life expectancy statistics Spain


Spain continues to lead the EU in life expectancy, with consistent year\-over\-year increases.


- **84\.25 years** average life expectancy (2025\)
- Up from **84\.12** in 2024 and **83\.88** in 2023
- **45\.9 years** median age


Below is the breakdown of the average life expectancy in Spain from 2002 to 2025:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/2-Life-expectancy-over-time-1024x614.png)
### Regional highlight


- **Madrid** and the surrounding regions have the highest life expectancy in the EU at **86\.1 years**


This is **4\.7 years above** the EU average of **81\.4 years.**


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/1-Average-life-expectancy-by-country-1024x614.png)
Source: [Macrotrends](https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/esp/spain/life-expectancy), [Eurostat](https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20250314-3)


### Cause of death statistics in Spain


Non\-communicable diseases dominate Spain’s mortality profile.


- Circulatory system diseases caused **26\.2%** of deaths in 2023\.
- **25\.6%** were due to cancers.


These two categories account for over **half of all deaths** in Spain.


Here are the other leading causes of death in Spain:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/3-Leading-cause-of-death-by-category-in-Spain-1024x614.png)
Source: [World Health Organization](https://data.who.int/countries/724), [Spanish Statistical Office](https://www.ine.es/dyngs/Prensa/en/EDCM2023.htm?print=1)


## How healthy are Spaniards?


Chronic health conditions are widespread, especially among older adults, but Spain still maintains some of the EU’s lowest obesity and alcohol consumption rates.


- **55%** of Spaniards report having at least one chronic condition
- This rises to **60%** for adults aged **65 and older**
- **33%** of adults aged 30–79 (**\~10M people**) have hypertension
- **20%** of Spaniards smoke (EU average: **9%**)
- **6%** are classified as heavy drinkers (EU average: **19%**)
- **16\.0%** obesity rate (EU’s **8th lowest**)  

	- **16\.5%** of men
	- **15\.5%** of women


Spain performs well on several lifestyle\-related health indicators despite a high rate of chronic illness.


Source: [World Health Organization](https://data.who.int/countries/724), [Spanish Statistical Office](https://www.ine.es/dyngs/Prensa/en/EDCM2023.htm?print=1), [OECD/European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies](https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2023/12/spain-country-health-profile-2023_727a7995/71d029b2-en.pdf), [Spanish Statistical Office](https://www.revespcardiol.org/en-numerical-values-and-impact-of-hypertens-articulo-S1885585724001440)


## How much does Spain spend on healthcare?


Spain’s healthcare spending rose significantly in recent years but remains **below the EU average** both in GDP share and per capita terms.


- **10\.7% of GDP** spent on healthcare in 2020–21  

	- Up from **8\.9%** in 2017
	- EU average: **11%**
- **€131\.98 billion** total healthcare spending
- **€2,771 per capita**, nearly **33% less** than EU average (**€4,028**)


Below is the breakdown of Spain’s healthcare expenditure as a percentage of GDP since 2000:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/4-Spain_s-healthcare-expenditure-as-a-_-of-its-GDP-1024x614.png)
Spain ranks among the lowest EU countries in per capita healthcare spending:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/5-Expenditure-pp-1024x598.png)
### Who pays for healthcare in Spain?


Public financing covers the bulk of health expenditures, but out\-of\-pocket costs remain significant.


- **71\.6%** (**€94\.69B**) of health spending came from public funds
- **28\.4%** (**€37\.29B**) came from private sources  

	- **21\.0%** of total funding came directly from out\-of\-pocket spending


This structure reflects Spain’s tax\-based healthcare model with growing reliance on supplemental payments.


Sources:  [OECD/European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies](https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2023/12/spain-country-health-profile-2023_727a7995/71d029b2-en.pdf), [World Bank Gro](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS?end=2022&locations=ES&start=2000&view=chart)up, [Macrotrends](https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/esp/spain/healthcare-spending), [Spanish Ministry of Health](https://www.sanidad.gob.es/estadEstudios/estadisticas/sisInfSanSNS/tablasEstadisticas/InfAnualSNS2023/Resumen_Ejecutivo_2023_Ingles.pdf), [OECD](https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2019/11/spain-country-health-profile-2019_9ee915d7/8f834636-en.pdf)


## Where does Spain spend its healthcare budget?


Hospitals receive the largest share of Spain’s public healthcare budget, followed closely by outpatient services.


- **51\.2%** of public health spending went to hospital care
- **42\.5%** went to outpatient care


Here’s a breakdown of where Spain spends its healthcare budget:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/6-Overall-expenditure-1024x614.png)
### Consumer\-driven segments


Nearly all spending on therapeutic devices (e.g. glasses, hearing aids) comes out of pocket.


- **97\.4%** of spending on durable medical products was paid by consumers


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/7-Therapeutic-devices-spending-1024x614.png)
Source: [Spanish Ministry of Health](https://www.sanidad.gob.es/estadEstudios/estadisticas/sisInfSanSNS/tablasEstadisticas/InfAnualSNS2023/Resumen_Ejecutivo_2023_Ingles.pdf), [Feather Insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/blog/health-insurance-spain-guide/)


## How popular is public health insurance in Spain?


Universal coverage remains the foundation of Spain’s system.


- **99\.5%** of residents are covered by the **Spanish National Health System (SNS)**
- Participation is mandatory and funded through **income tax contributions**


Public coverage ensures access to essential services for all legal residents.


Source: [Feather Insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/blog/health-insurance-spain-guide/), [European Health Observatory](https://eurohealthobservatory.who.int/monitors/health-systems-monitor/analyses/hspm/spain-2018/new-reform-on-the-breadth-of-the-spanish-health-system)


## How popular is private health insurance in Spain?


Private health insurance supplements, but does not replace, public coverage in Spain.


- **28%** of residents (**12\.4M people**) had private coverage in 2024
- **Catalonia** has the highest uptake (**\~34%**)
- **82%** of civil servants have private health insurance


### Private health insurance market leaders


Overall, 5 major insurers dominate the sector.


**SegurCaixa Adeslas** holds **28\.5%** of the private insurance market. 


Here is the breakdown of the 5 largest providers of private health insurance in Spain by market share.


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/8-Private-health-companies-by-market-share-1024x614.png)
### Average cost of Spanish private health insurance


- Average premium: **€698 per year** or **€58\.2 per month**
- Final cost varies by **age, location, provider, and coverage level**


Spain’s private insurance market is growing, especially among higher\-income earners and those seeking shorter wait times.


Sources: [Feather Insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/blog/health-insurance-spain-guide/), [Freopp.org](https://freopp.org/spain-19-in-the-2024-world-index-of-healthcare-innovation/), [La Vanguardia](https://www.lavanguardia.com/mediterranean/20241230/10247309/health-insurance-expensive-2025-spain-hospital-group-technology-price-ine-adeslas-dkv-sanitas-mapfre.html), [IDIS Foundation](https://www.fundacionidis.com/informes/analisis-de-situacion-de-la-sanidad-privada/observatorio-del-sector-sanitario-privado-2024)


## How big is Spain’s healthcare sector?


Spain employs hundreds of thousands in healthcare, with most staff concentrated in hospitals and direct care roles.


- **763,355** professionals worked in the public healthcare network (2023\)  

	- **75\.7%** worked in hospitals
	- **16\.0%** in primary care centers
	- **3\.4%** in emergency services
- **172,157** medical professionals and **221,406** nurses  

	- Medical and nursing staff make up **51\.6%** of the public healthcare workforce


### Private sector employment


- **74,597** staff employed directly by private hospitals
- **34,379** additional professionals contracted via non\-salaried agreements  

	- Includes **8,525 doctors** working in private hospitals


### Staffing ratios


- **6\.3 nurses** per 1,000 residents (EU average: **8\.5**)
- **4\.5 doctors** per 1,000 residents (EU average: **4\.1**)
- **6\.03 dentists** and **12\.29 pharmacists** per 10,000 residents


Source:  [Spanish Ministry of Health](https://www.sanidad.gob.es/estadEstudios/estadisticas/sisInfSanSNS/tablasEstadisticas/InfAnualSNS2023/Resumen_Ejecutivo_2023_Ingles.pdf), [ETKHO](https://www.etkho.com/en/hospital-admissions-beds-annual-costs-and-the-evolution-of-spains-national-health-system/), [OECD/European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies](https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2023/12/spain-country-health-profile-2023_727a7995/71d029b2-en.pdf), [World Health Organization](https://data.who.int/countries/724)


## How many hospitals are in Spain?


Spain has a relatively low hospital density compared to the OECD average, but its bed availability has remained stable for over a decade.


- **776 hospitals** in 2024 (up from **765** in 2015\)  

	- **16\.4 hospitals** per million residents (OECD average: **27\.4**)
- **449** hospitals are public; the rest are private


### Hospital bed capacity


- **155,077** total hospital beds nationwide  

	- **126,004** beds (**82\.5%**) in the public system
	- **29,073** beds (**17\.75%**) in the private sector
- **296 beds** per 100,000 people (EU average: **525**)
- Bed availability has remained stable since 2013


Source: [Spanish Ministry of Health](https://www.sanidad.gob.es/estadEstudios/estadisticas/sisInfSanSNS/tablasEstadisticas/InfAnualSNS2023/Resumen_Ejecutivo_2023_Ingles.pdf), [European Health Observatory](https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/379922/9789289014342-eng.pdf?sequence=1), [ETKHO](https://www.etkho.com/en/hospital-admissions-beds-annual-costs-and-the-evolution-of-spains-national-health-system/) 


### How many people are hospitalized in Spain?


Spain’s public hospitals handle the majority of inpatient care and outpatient consultations, with private hospitals providing additional capacity.


- **4 million** inpatient admissions in public hospitals annually
- **87 million** public sector medical consultations per year
- **3\.5 million** surgical interventions performed each year  

	- **48\.6%** of major surgeries are outpatient


### Average length of stay


- **7\.8 days**: public hospital average  

	- **6\.7 days** in acute care
	- **55\.9 days** in long\-term care
- **5\.4 days**: private hospital average  

	- **20%** of private admissions are funded by the public system


Here is the breakdown of average hospital stays by type of facility in the public and private sector:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/9-Admission-by-type-of-hospital-1024x614.png)
Source: [Spanish Ministry of Health](https://www.sanidad.gob.es/estadEstudios/estadisticas/sisInfSanSNS/tablasEstadisticas/InfAnualSNS2023/Resumen_Ejecutivo_2023_Ingles.pdf), [ETKHO](https://www.etkho.com/en/hospital-admissions-beds-annual-costs-and-the-evolution-of-spains-national-health-system/) 


### What are the most common reasons for hospital stays in Spain?


Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular conditions and cancer are the most frequent drivers of hospitalizations.


- **13\.4%** of SNS hospital admissions are due to cardiovascular diseases  

	- **10\.3 admissions** per 1,000 residents
- **6 admissions** per 1,000 residents for malignant tumors  

	- **8\.2 days** average hospital stay for cancer\-related admissions


Here is the breakdown of the four most common reasons for hospitalisation in Spain:


![](https://storage.googleapis.com/popsure-blog-content/1/2025/07/10-Reason-for-admission-1024x614.png)
Source: [Spanish Ministry of Health](https://www.sanidad.gob.es/estadEstudios/estadisticas/sisInfSanSNS/tablasEstadisticas/InfAnualSNS2023/Resumen_Ejecutivo_2023_Ingles.pdf)


## Sick leave statistics in Spain


Sick leave has surged in Spain since 2018, especially for mental health conditions.


- **396 million sick days** recorded in 2023  

	- Equivalent to **20 working days** per worker
	- **62% increase** since 2018
- **4\.1%** of the workforce is on sick leave at any given time


### Mental health trends


- **78%** increase in mental health\-related sick leave since 2018
- Now the **second leading** cause of extended sick leave  

	- **21%** of women cite mental health reasons
	- **15%** of men


Source: [Umivale Activa](https://umivaleactiva.es/dam/umivale-activa/absentismo-y-competitividad/Notas-breves_Umivale_Activa_IVIE-1.pdf), [SUR in English](https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/boom-absenteeism-among-young-people-twice-many-20241231073753-nt.html), [SUR](https://www.surinenglish.com/spain/fewer-than-workers-account-for-sick-leaves-20250611081603-nt.html)

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How to move to Spain: Explained

If you’re planning to move to Spain, exciting times are ahead: from the vibrant culture to the laid\-back Mediterranean lifestyle, Spain offers one of the most attractive expat destinations in the world.


However, before you can enjoy tapas and sunshine full\-time on the Iberian coast, there are a few essential steps you must complete, starting with registering in Spain and securing expat insurance.  
  
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to move to Spain, including:


- Choosing the right visa
- How to register to live in Spain
- The steps you need to open a bank account, set up a phone and rent a flat
- The best expat health and travel insurance for a smooth relocation.


Let’s kick things off…


## How to choose the right visa for your stay in Spain


Before you can fully enjoy life under the Spanish sun, it’s important to make sure you have the correct legal status to live and stay in Spain. If you’re a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you do not need to apply for a visa – if not, you’ll need to apply if you plan to remain in Spain for longer than 90 days.


Choosing the right visa is a crucial first step in your relocation journey. 


The type of visa you apply for will depend on your individual circumstances — whether you’re moving to work remotely, retire, study, or join a family member already living in Spain. 


Each visa category comes with:


- Specific eligibility criteria
- Financial requirements
- Health insurance obligations


Understanding your visa options early can help avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smoother transition when you arrive.


Here’s a breakdown of the most common visas available for expats moving to Spain:


### Digital nomad visa


Spain’s new Digital Nomad Visa is a popular choice for remote workers who are employed by non\-Spanish companies, and many online lawyers can help with this. 


To qualify, you must prove:


- Stable remote income of around €2,400 per month or €28,000 per year
- At least one year of consistent work experience in your field: typically, this includes payslips, employment contracts or client contracts
- Private health insurance that meets Spanish visa requirements


This visa allows you to enjoy the Spanish lifestyle while continuing to work for your foreign employer (or clients) — perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees.


### Non\-lucrative visa (NLV)


Ideal for retirees or individuals who can support themselves without working in Spain.  
To apply, you must demonstrate:


- Proof of sufficient passive income: a minimum annual income of €28,800 is mandated, and for those with dependents, an additional €600 per month is needed for each dependent
- Full private health insurance coverage: equal or better than what the Spanish public health service offers


The Non\-Lucrative Visa is particularly suited for those seeking a quieter retirement in Spain’s beautiful cities or countryside without engaging in paid employment locally.


### Work visa or self\-employed (autónomo) visa


If you plan to work directly for a Spanish company or start your own business, you will need either a work visa or a self\-employed visa. This will require: 


- A formal job offer or detailed business plan
- Financial projections if you are self\-employed
- Relevant professional qualifications
- Proof of health insurance covering your stay


Keep in mind that employer\-sponsored visas require significant paperwork from your prospective Spanish employer.


### Family reunification visa or student visa


If you are moving to Spain to join family members who are already legal residents, the Family Reunification Visa is likely your best option. Similarly, if you plan to enroll in a university or another educational institution, a Student Visa will cover your stay. Both visa types demand:


- Proof of relationship or enrollment
- Adequate financial resources: a family of two would need a minimum annual income of €10,800
- Private health insurance that complies with Spanish requirements


Make sure to carefully check the rules. For family members like a spouse or children, you’ll need to show proof of your relationship, that you can support them financially, and that they’ll have health insurance too. These requirements can change depending on your situation. 


Please note that visa processing times can range from several weeks to several months, depending on your local Spanish consulate. We highly recommend gathering your documents and submitting your application as early as possible.  
You will usually need to show proof of comprehensive health insurance at the time you apply, even if your trip is months away. Travel insurance is optional but highly recommended.


## How to register to live in Spain


After settling into your new home and adjusting to the pace of Spanish life, where everything moves a little slower, it will be time to get your paperwork in order. Registering properly is essential for living legally in Spain, accessing healthcare, signing rental contracts, and even setting up basic services like broadband access and mobile phones.


### 1\. Empadronamiento (local address registration)


Your empadronamiento is your official registration with the local municipality (ayuntamiento) that proves where you live. This document is needed for almost every administrative process, from getting a healthcare card to enrolling your children in school.


To register, you’ll typically need:


- Your passport and valid visa
- A rental contract, property deed, or written authorisation from your landlord if subletting
- A completed application form (which you can often download from your local town hall’s website)


Some ayuntamientos require an appointment (cita previa) and may ask for extra documents, so do check ahead online or call before you visit. Once registered, you’ll receive a Certificado de Empadronamiento, usually issued on the spot or within a few days.


### 2\. NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero – foreigner identification number)


Your NIE is your all\-purpose tax and ID number in Spain. You’ll need it to:


- Open a Spanish bank account
- Sign a rental or employment contract
- Pay taxes or social security contributions
- Set up utilities and other essential services


There are two ways to apply:


- From abroad: Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country before you move
- In Spain: Apply at an immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería) or certain police stations once you arrive


You’ll need to bring:


- Your passport and visa
- Proof of your reason for needing an NIE (like a job offer letter, lease agreement, or enrollment confirmation)
- Completed [EX\-15 form](https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/budapest/hu/ServiciosConsulares/PublishingImages/Paginas/K%C3%BClf%C3%B6ldi-%C3%A1llampolg%C3%A1rok-Azonos%C3%ADt%C3%B3-Sz%C3%A1ma-NIE/EX-15%20%28English%20instructions%20for%20completing%20the%20form%29.pdf)
- Proof of payment of a small application fee (Modelo 790\)


Be sure to book your NIE appointment (cita previa) online early — slots can fill up fast, especially in larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona.


### 3\. TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero – foreigner identity card)


If you’re staying in Spain longer than 6 months, you must apply for a TIE, which is your physical biometric residency card. The TIE officially confirms your right to reside in Spain and contains your NIE number, personal information, and a photo.


To get your TIE, you will need to follow these steps:


1. Book an appointment online at a designated immigration office (select the option “Toma de Huellas – Expedición de Tarjeta”).
2. Bring the following to your appointment:
	- Passport and visa
	- Empadronamiento certificate
	- Completed [EX\-17 form](https://www.inclusion.gob.es/documents/410169/2156469/17-Formulario_TIE.pdf)
	- Two passport\-sized photos (Spanish format: white background, 32 x 26 mm)
	- Proof of payment of the TIE fee (around €15, paid via [Modelo 790 form](https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/londres/en/Information-consular-services/Documents/790%20Template.pdf))


After your appointment:


- You’ll receive a resguardo (receipt), which temporarily proves your residency status
- Your actual TIE card will usually be ready for pickup 30–45 days later


Always check the exact photo and document requirements before your appointment — missing even one item can mean having to reschedule, costing you valuable time!


## What health insurance do expats need to live in Spain?


One of the biggest surprises for newcomers looking at how to move to Spain is how critical insurance is — not just for peace of mind, but because it’s legally required for many visa types.


Spain’s public healthcare system is high quality and widely accessible, but it’s not always immediately available to newcomers. To apply for a visa, you’ll need private expat health insurance. This means a plan from a Spanish or approved international provider that includes full coverage with no deductibles or co\-pays. It must cover general care, hospital stays, emergencies, and repatriation, and it must be valid for the entire length of your visa.


Even after you arrive and begin paying taxes in Spain—whether employed or self\-employed — it can take time to be [fully registered in the public system](https://feather-insurance.com/blog/health-insurance-spain-guide/) (*Seguridad Social*). Until then, your private expat insurance will be your only access to healthcare. If you’re not eligible for public coverage through work, you may be able to join via the Convenio Especial, a government program for long\-term residents who pay into the system independently.


Private health insurance isn’t just for the visa process — it remains valuable even after you’ve joined the public system. Many expats keep their private plans for faster access to care, shorter wait times, more flexibility with specialists, and easier communication with English\-speaking doctors. In many cases, private insurance can even provide broader coverage than the public system.


Feather’s [expat health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/health-insurance/expat) ticks every box. It’s fully digital, visa\-compliant and managed entirely online in English. It couldn’t be simpler.


## The essential checklist for living in Spain


Once the major paperwork is sorted, you’ll need to get your life up and running:


### **Open a Spanish Bank Account:**


Bring your NIE and empadronamiento. Some banks may also ask for proof of income or a utility bill. 


Online options like N26, Revolut, or Wise can get you started quickly.


### **Set Up Your Phone:**


Most mobile providers offer prepaid SIMs with generous data plans. Once you have a local address and NIE, you can sign up for monthly contracts.


### **Renting a Flat:**


Start with short\-term rentals or a co\-living arrangement while you get your documents sorted. When signing a long\-term lease, expect to pay a deposit and potentially provide proof of income or a Spanish guarantor.


## What to expect once you move to Spain


Spain is one of the [best places to retire](https://blog.remitly.com/immigration/best-countries-to-retire), study, or live: 
- Tapas in the evening. 
- Weekend trips to the coast. 
- Long lunches that roll into siestas. 
- And more...
It’s all waiting for you in Spain once the paperwork is complete, you can finally enjoy all the reasons you chose to move to Spain — and there’s so much to look forward to.


### A more relaxed pace of life


Spain is famous for its “tranquilo” way of life. People prioritise family, friends and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Shops often close for siesta, and while patience is key, many expats find this slower pace brings a deeper sense of balance and well\-being.


### Rich culture and incredible food


From tapas in Andalusia to seafood in Galicia, Spain is a paradise for food lovers.  
Each region has its own traditions, festivals, and historic charm, making everyday life an adventure. Embrace the local customs — every corner of Spain has something unique to offer.


### Stunning nature and outdoor living


Spain’s landscapes range from golden beaches to rugged mountains, offering endless opportunities for outdoor living. With its mild climate, you’ll find yourself hiking, cycling, or relaxing at an outdoor café most of the year.


### A welcoming expat community


Spain’s expat communities are vibrant and supportive, especially in cities like Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga and Madrid. Joining local groups, attending events and learning the language will help you build a new life faster than you might expect.


### How to move to Spain with confidence


Moving to Spain isn’t just changing your address — it’s choosing a lifestyle filled with culture, sunshine and connection. While the paperwork can seem overwhelming at first, getting the right support makes all the difference.


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[BP] how to move to spain

How to Get a Digital Nomad Visa for Spain

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How to get a digital nomad visa for Spain

Spain has long been a favourite for remote workers drawn towards its warm climate, vibrant culture and great internet infrastructure. Now, with the digital nomad visa, non-EU citizens can live and work legally in Spain while keeping their remote jobs or freelance clients abroad.

Whether you're a salaried employee working remotely or a self-employed freelancer, we will walk you through the process of getting the Spanish digital nomad visa from start to finish.

>This step-by-step guide covers:
>
>- Who is eligible for Spain’s digital nomad visa
>- Income requirements and how to prove your employment
>- How long the visa is valid and what alternatives exist
>- How to apply and where to submit your application
>- Which documents you’ll need
>- How long the process takes
>- What to do once you arrive in Spain
>
>And, of course, we'll let you know [how health insurance works in Spain](https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/blog/health-insurance-spain-guide).

## What is the Spanish digital nomad visa?

The Spanish digital nomad visa is a residence permit for non-EU/EEA remote workers who want to live in Spain while working for companies or clients outside the country. It’s designed for freelancers and employees who can work online, offering them the chance to stay in Spain for up to one year, with the possibility to extend beyond that.

## Who can apply for the digital nomad visa?

To qualify for Spain’s digital nomad visa, you must either:

- Be employed by a company located outside of Spain (and have worked with them for at least three months), or
- Be self-employed, with clients based primarily outside of Spain

In both cases, your job must allow you to work fully remotely using digital tools, and your employment or services should not impact the Spanish labour market directly.

## Income requirements and proof of employment

You’ll need to show that you can financially support yourself while living in Spain. The general guideline is:

- At least 200% of Spain’s minimum monthly wage (SMI): roughly €2,400 per month or about €28,800 per year gross income before tax.
- If you’re planning on bringing family members with you, you’ll need to add around €850/month per dependent.

To prove your income:

- Employees must show a signed employment contract and a letter from their employer confirming remote status.
- Freelancers should submit contracts from international clients, professional licenses (if applicable) and any proof of business activity they can offer; it all helps your application.

## How long does the visa last?

The digital nomad visa is typically issued for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to five years. After five years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residency.

If you don’t meet the criteria, Spain offers these other visa routes:

- Freelance visa: For self-employed professionals who want to work with Spanish clients and register as autónomo (self-employed) in Spain.
- Entrepreneur visa: For those planning to start a business that is considered to be innovative or economically beneficial to Spain.

Each visa type has different requirements, especially when it comes to tax registration, business plans, and clients, so be sure to explore which best fits your lifestyle before applying.

## How to apply for the digital nomad visa

You can apply for the Spanish digital nomad visa in one of two ways: either from your home country or from within Spain.

If you apply from your home country, you’ll need to [visit your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy](https://www.exteriores.gob.es/en/ServiciosAlCiudadano/Paginas/Servicios-consulares.aspx) and submit your application before entering Spain. You can wait in your home country while it’s processed, then travel to Spain once approved to finalise your residence permit.

Alternatively, if you’re already in Spain on a valid tourist visa, you can apply from within the country during your 90-day stay. You can do this through Spain’s immigration office (Extranjería) rather than a consulate, and it allows you to remain in Spain legally while your application is processed. One advantage of this route is that the initial residence permit is usually granted for up to three years, compared to just one year if you apply from abroad. 

Regardless of where you apply, make sure all required documents are properly translated into Spanish and, where necessary, apostilled.

## Required documents for the digital nomad visa

Here’s what you typically need to apply:

### 1. Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay.

### 2. Proof of remote work or freelance income

Include your employment contract, company letter, client contracts or freelance invoices. You’ll need to show at least three months of work history.

### 3. Proof of qualifications

A university degree or at least three years of relevant work experience in your field is often required.

### 4. Criminal background check

Issued in your home country and apostilled, this must be no older than three months.

### 5. Proof of address

If applying from within Spain, a rental contract or temporary address should be included.

### 6. Health insurance

You must have visa-compliant expat health insurance with full coverage in Spain, including hospitalisation and emergency care. Feather offers trusted [insurance for digital nomads](https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/health-insurance/expat) that meets these requirements and can be obtained instantly online.

## Where to submit your application

If applying from abroad, you’ll need to submit your application to your local Spanish consulate or embassy. Use [Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs site](https://www.exteriores.gob.es/en/ServiciosAlCiudadano/Paginas/Servicios-consulares.aspx) to locate the right consulate in your country and check their specific requirements and appointment procedures.

If applying from within Spain, you submit your documents through the UGE ([Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos](https://www.inclusion.gob.es/web/unidadgrandesempresas/inicio)) via their online portal or with the help of an immigration lawyer.

## How long does the process take?

Spanish digital nomad visa processing times vary by location, but generally:

- From abroad: 4-8 weeks after submitting at the consulate
- From Spain: 20 working days once submitted online

It’s important to make sure that your documents are complete and accurately translated before applying: missing or incomplete paperwork could delay your application or cause a rejection.

## After you arrive in Spain

Once you’ve received your digital nomad visa and moved to Spain, there are a few key steps that you should follow to start this exciting new chapter the right way:

- Register your address (empadronamiento) at your local town hall
- Apply for your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) within 30 days of arrival
- Open a Spanish bank account; (some consulates may ask you to do this earlier)
- Stay compliant with [Spanish tax regulations](https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/).

Many digital nomads also choose to connect with local co-working spaces, expat communities and professional networks to make the transition smoother.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is a great opportunity for remote workers who want to enjoy life in one of Europe’s most vibrant destinations, legally and with peace of mind. By following these steps and preparing your application carefully, you’ll be well on your way to living and working in Spain.

And don’t forget: [valid health insurance](https://feather-insurance.com/en-es/health-insurance/expat) is essential both for visa approval and your day-to-day security in Spain. Feather makes this step simple with fast, compliant digital plans built for expats and freelancers alike.

How health insurance in Spain works (2026)

Life in Spain