In short: the seven mistakes that cost newcomers the most time and money in Spain are (1) ignoring how different each region is, (2) misunderstanding the visa and residency rules — the golden visa no longer takes new applications, (3) not learning any Spanish, (4) underestimating the paperwork, (5) buying a home too soon, and assuming it grants residency, (6) overlooking the real cost of living and the tax you may still owe back home, and (7) expecting to find a job easily. Each one is explained below, updated for 2026.
Moving to Spain requires careful planning. Organising all aspects beforehand is the key to making the process easier.
Here are some of the most common pitfalls and tips on how to overcome them successfully.
Ignoring Spain's regional diversity
Spain is a diverse country with great cultural, climatic and linguistic differences between regions.
Common mistakes:
- Not considering the use of languages spoken in some regions (such as Catalan in Barcelona or Basque in the Basque Country).
- Moving to the Mediterranean coast looking for peace and quiet, but encountering mass tourism.
Before committing to a rental or purchase, we advise you to visit different regions.
Not knowing Residency and Visa requirements
One of the most common mistakes is not having adequate knowledge about the procedures that must be carried out to move to a foreign country.
It is very important to research about the requirements that must be fulfilled to obtain the respective visas and residency upon arrival in Spain for both EU and non-EU citizens.
This is essential and will help make your stay in Spain a smooth and less stressful process.
When it comes to non-EU citizens coming to Spain, you must remember to comply with the 90-day rule and within that time apply for residency.
In addition, for EU citizens it is important to apply for the certificate of registration as an EU citizen.
Once you have spent 5 years of continuous stay in the country you can apply for permanent residence.
Non-EU citizens must obtain a visa to enter the country. The routes available in 2026 are:
- Non-Lucrative Visa — for people who can support themselves without working in Spain. For 2026 the consulates ask for proof of roughly €28,800 a year for the main applicant and €7,200 for each family member, plus private health insurance.
- Digital Nomad Visa — for those working remotely for companies outside Spain.
The golden visa is no longer an option. Spain stopped accepting new residency-by-investment applications on 3 April 2025. Buying a property no longer leads to a residence permit. Permits granted before that date can still be renewed, and we handle those renewals — but if your plan was to “buy a house and get residency”, that route is closed.
It is very important to have the help and guidance of a lawyer specialised in foreigners in order to successfully resolve your residency application and make your entry to Spain simple and hassle-free.
At Mael abogados our immigration lawyers will be happy to guide you and facilitate your integration into the Spanish community.
Not learning the language
Despite Spain being a renowned tourist destination, it may come as a surprise that English is not as widely spoken as you might expect.
This can pose significant difficulties in everyday interactions, from ordering food to navigating bureaucratic processes.
The key to successfully integrating into Spanish life is to adopt the local language. According to a study by the Cervantes Institute, more than 21% of Spanish admit to having a basic or intermediate level of English, so the vast majority are predominantly Spanish-speaking. So what’s the best way to cope? Start learning Spanish before you move.
There are numerous resources available to help you on your language journey and a multitude of online platforms, which are a good starting point for beginners.
In addition, many local language schools offer intensive courses designed specifically for expats. Remember that the goal is not to become fluent overnight, but to make a concerted effort to gradually increase your knowledge.
Immerse yourself in the language with daily practice, whether it’s through Spanish-language media, conversing with locals or even participating in community events.
As you master it, you will find it much easier to integrate into the community and go about your daily tasks with ease.
Practical steps to avoid the language barrier setback include:
- Enrolling in local language classes.
- Constantly use language learning apps.
- Hold regular conversations with Spanish speakers.
- Participate in local cultural events and activities.
In addition, understanding and speaking Spanish can enrich your overall experience of living in Spain, allowing for deeper connections and a more fulfilling expat life.
Underestimating Spanish bureaucracy
Spain is known for its slow bureaucracy. Essential documents such as the NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) or the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) are essential for working, opening bank accounts or contracting services.
Important documents:
- Empadronamiento: Compulsory registration to indicate your residence and habitual address.
- NIE: Necessary for almost all legal and financial procedures.
- Health card: Access to the public health system.
We advise you to start the procedures as soon as possible and, if possible, seek professional advice to avoid mistakes or delays.
Rushing to buy a house
The real estate market in Spain can be attractive, but buying a property without knowing the environment or legislation well can be a costly mistake.
Risks:
- Buying in areas that do not suit your lifestyle.
It may be a good idea to rent initially and, when you are sure of your choice, consult a real estate lawyer before purchasing any property to avoid fraud or legal complications.
And one assumption worth correcting: buying a home in Spain does not give you the right to live here. Since the golden visa closed in April 2025 there is no purchase that leads to residency: the property and the permit are two separate matters, and the permit is the one with the deadlines. If you are moving and buying at the same time, start with the NIE, which you will need for both.
Overlooking Financial Reality
Moving to Spain involves a number of legal and financial preparations that could easily be overlooked, but doing so is one of the ‘7 biggest mistakes when moving to Spain’.
From opening a bank account to understanding the ins and outs of the local tax system and registering with the local authorities, it is essential to have all the legal formalities in order.
Opening a local bank account is not just a convenience, it is often a necessity. It facilitates transactions for rent, utilities and other local expenses, and can be more efficient for managing finances in euros, avoiding currency conversion fees.
However, choosing the right bank can be bewildering.
Although Spain is relatively affordable, the cost of living varies from city to city. Madrid and Barcelona are significantly more expensive than other cities.
In addition, the Spanish tax system is complex, especially for foreigners.
Key considerations:
- Global income tax return: Residents must declare income earned anywhere in the world.
- Local bank account: Fundamental to avoid international commissions.
If you are a US citizen, one more thing. The United States taxes its citizens on worldwide income for life, wherever they live, so moving to Spain does not end your filing duties back home: you may have to file in both countries, and a Spanish bank account can bring reporting obligations of its own. The US–Spain double taxation treaty and foreign tax credits exist precisely to stop the same income being taxed twice, but they relieve the bill — they do not remove the paperwork. Plan both sides before you become a Spanish tax resident, which generally happens once you spend more than 183 days here in a calendar year.
We recommend a good tax advisor to help you optimise your financial situation.
Thinking that getting a job will be easy
The Spanish labour market is competitive, especially in non-specialised sectors.
In addition, non-EU residents (outside the EU) must obtain a work visa before arriving.
Common obstacles:
- High unemployment rate, especially among young people.
- Difficulties for companies to justify hiring foreigners.
It is important to check the areas with the highest demand for labour and the legal requirements for your work visa.
Frequently asked questions about moving to Spain
Can I still get residency in Spain by buying a property?
No. Spain stopped accepting new golden visa (residency-by-investment) applications on 3 April 2025. Buying a home gives you no right of residence; you need a visa in its own right, such as the non-lucrative visa.
How much money do I need for the non-lucrative visa in 2026?
Consulates ask for proof of around €28,800 a year for the main applicant plus about €7,200 for each family member, together with private health insurance covering Spain.
Do I need a NIE before I move to Spain?
You need a NIE for almost anything with legal or financial consequences — buying a property, signing a mortgage, opening a bank account or paying taxes. It is not a residence permit, and getting it early removes a bottleneck.
Do Americans living in Spain still file taxes in the United States?
Yes. The United States taxes its citizens on worldwide income regardless of where they live. The US–Spain treaty and foreign tax credits prevent double taxation, but the filing obligations remain.
When do I become a Spanish tax resident?
As a general rule, when you spend more than 183 days in Spain within a calendar year, or when your main centre of economic interests is here.
