Much of the information in books and on the internet is aimed at British people moving to Spain. EU citizens can move and work within the EU with just a valid passport, however, it is a more complicated process for US citizens to move to Spain because of the extra paperwork and bureaucracy. Americans moving to Spain will have to apply for visas and permits.

Here is a guide on some of the bureaucracy involved for Americans moving to Spain.

Obtaining a visa
A tourist visa or valid passport will only allow you to stay in Spain for a period of up to 3 months but is ideal for visiting Spain to get to know an area and to plan your move.

To actually reside in Spain, you will require a Residency Visa. There are different types of visa depending on your personal circumstances and whether you have a job in Spain, are retired or are investing in Spain. Visas are also available for those who have family already in Spain.

Visit the Spanish Consulate at home to find out how to apply for the appropriate visa and what documents you need. Check with the Consulate how long it will take for your visa to be processed before you make any firm travel plans.

Documents you are likely to need to apply for a Residency Visa in Spain are:

1. A valid passport.
2. Photos.
3. A medical certificate (include an official translation).
4. Criminal record certificate (include an official translation).
5. Marriage certificate and birth certificates of children if applying for visas for your whole family.
6. Photocopies of everything.

Different extra documentation will be needed for different types of visa. For example, if you are applying for a retirement residency visa, you will need proof of income from social security and any other sources of income, and if you are applying for a work related visa, you will need  to show a written job offer or contract.
Always check with the spanish consulate what documents are required.

Students - If you are a student who is moving to Spain to study, you can apply for a student visa in the US. Make sure that you apply early because these visas can take a long time to process. You will need to visit the Consulate in person so check before you go what documents you will need. The Spanish authorities will want to know how you are going to support yourself in Spain, so you will need to show proof of scholarship, income or savings.

Once your Residency Visa has been processed, it will be valid for 90 days and valid for one entry into Spain. When you arrive in Spain, it will be necessary for you to apply for a Residence Permit. Americans moving to Spain should seek the help of a gestor in Spain to help with Spanish bureaucracy, including applying for the permit. Spain is a country known for its red tape and even Spaniards hire a gestor to help them with paperwork.

Moving to Spain is a big decision to make and you should plan it carefully every step of the way, seeking professional advice at every opportunity. Good planning will lead to a successful move.