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What is it like living in Spain as an American?

Living in Spain as an American can be a thrilling experience. It’s a country that is full of culture, history, and great food. Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona are popular destinations for tourists and expats alike. If you’ve ever considered living across the world in Spain, then this post is for you. We’ll go over all the details of becoming an expat in Spain from the perspectives of various American citizens who have decided to make the big move.

Why would a US citizen prefer to live in Spain?

Living in Spain provides access to a vibrant local and expat community and allows for the enjoyment of an affordable lifestyle accompanied by breathtaking places and tantalizing cuisine. Spain has a unique charm that has always enamored visitors, especially Americans, and this is why some US citizens prefer to make it their home.

Living in Spain as an american

Here are the benefits to consider if you’re a US citizen planning to move to Spain:

Safety

If safety is a concern for you when relocating to Spain, fear not. According to four separate surveys, the country has earned its place among the safest 41 countries in the world. These rankings consider homicide rates, natural disasters, and economic/political risk factors. Madrid and Barcelona are the Spanish cities that appear in the ranking of the World’s Safest Cities 2024, ranked 25th and 26th respectively.

Healthcare

Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, with a comprehensive plan that ensures access to quality medical services for Spanish citizens and non-EU residents alike. And if you’re working and living in Spain, you get free access to healthcare.

Working possibilities

The opportunity to work in Spain is a major benefit of living here as an American expatriate. US citizens can take advantage of the country’s booming job market and find various employment options such as teaching, IT, marketing, healthcare, engineering, and more. Those who wish to start their own business can also do so but should make sure they possess the proper documents and meet all necessary requirements.

Buy properties

Spain has various property options, from luxurious villas to city apartments. The great thing is that foreign buyers can buy property in Spain with the same rights as Spanish citizens. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona are popular for both residential and investment properties. Still, smaller destinations such as Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca offer great value for money in terms of prices per square meter.

Investing in Spain is straightforward, and housing costs are far less expensive than in neighboring countries. Plus, if you invest at least €500,000 into property purchases you’ll receive your own visa to work and reside in Spain and bring any dependent family members with you.

Easy Visa

Several visas are available for those seeking to reside in Spain, making the transition a breeze. The Golden Visa is a great option for investors with €500,000 to purchase property or invest significantly in Spain’s economy—it grants you and your family working visas! Additionally, the non-lucrative visa allows those with sufficient funds to maintain themselves during their stay, making it ideal for retirees. Finally, Spanish student visa holders can extend their time after graduation via the job search visa which provides an additional year of residency while searching for employment opportunities.

Beckham’s Law

Relocating to a foreign land can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know what taxes are due. Fortunately for expats in Spain, Bechkam’s Law is here to save the day. This exclusive benefit grants up to 6 years of tax relief on worldwide income and only requires 24% taxation on Spanish-sourced revenue. Without this law, individuals could pay as much as 45% – a huge saving that will help make your transition smoother.

Family and retirement friendly

Spain is a great destination for families, as it emphasizes nurturing strong community and family bonds. Expats often come here with their loved ones through the family reunion visa or to retire due to its non-lucrative visa, lower property costs, and excellent healthcare that’s either free of charge or offered at an affordable price. Young families usually choose Spain because children can attend good public schools and enjoy outdoor activities in parks and beaches.

Easily become an entrepreneur

Of the 3.4 million businesses across Spain, 1.9 million are registered as self-employed or Autónomos. This is especially popular among expats as it enables them to set their own rates and establish a successful business from anywhere with great flexibility. Expertise in a certain field will help you here, but the Spanish Government offers resources and incentives to support those just starting.

Great transport links

Spain is incredibly well-connected, with numerous public transportation options such as trams, buses, metro, and trains running locally. For longer journeys across the nation – or even further afield to other European countries- expats can take advantage of the high-speed train networks (Alta Velocidad) or utilize one of its many airports for visa-free travel.

Pet-friendly

Spain is a haven for pet owners, with numerous pet-friendly parks, beaches, and restaurants. From locals allowing their dogs in restaurants, bars, and businesses to cats roaming the streets with people stopping to feed them – you and your furry friend will feel welcomed everywhere! And whether you’re bringing your beloved companion from abroad or adopting one locally, there’s no doubt that both of you are sure to be spoiled by Spaniards’ love of animals.

Cost of Rent

If you’re looking to save big on your living expenses, then Spain is the place for you. Numbeo reports that renting costs are almost 43% percent lower than in America. One of the major expenses that significantly impacts the cost of living is housing. Spain offers a range of affordable options for renting properties, including apartments, houses, and even villas, especially in smaller cities and towns. The cost of renting a similar type of property in the United States is substantially higher, making Spain an attractive option for those looking to save money on their monthly housing expenses.

Americans Retiring in Spain

Spain’s sunny climate and luxurious lifestyle make it an ideal location for expats. With thousands of Britons, French, Germans, and increasing numbers of Americans calling the country home—the opportunities to meet others with similar aspirations are endless! So whether you’re looking to retire in one of the best cities or invest in a multicultural city, rest assured that you’ll find like-minded people wherever your journey takes you.

Spain offers an unprecedented opportunity for Americans looking to retire in a foreign land. With its diverse culture and affordable cost of living for most retirees, those who buy property at this time can find themselves with remarkable financial freedom. And with the Spanish bureaucracy being so easily navigable by US citizens, there’s never been a better moment to call Spain home.

Americans in Spain

What are the requirements for an American to live in Spain?

To start the process of obtaining a residence permit in Spain, American citizens must apply for a student visa or a work permit. One of the easiest ways to obtain a Spanish passport is to apply for a Spanish Golden Visa. If you invest at least €500,000 in Spanish real estate (or certain other investments) and have the required financial means, you can get a five-year residency permit. After five years of permanent residency, US citizens are eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship – which entails being entitled to free health insurance and access to all European countries.

For those who desire to stay in Spain for more than 90 days, a valid passport with at least six months of expiration is necessary to apply for a permanent residency visa. Furthermore, applicants must provide the Spanish consulate with a valid passport, proof of private health insurance, and sufficient financial means to sustain themselves. It’s worth remembering that for US citizens moving to Spain from abroad, their original American passport must remain valid for at least three months after arriving there.

For US citizens looking to relocate to Spain, there are several visa options from which you can choose. The top seven types of favored visas are:

  • Student Visas
  • Job Search Visa
  • Work Visa
  • Golden (Investor) Visa Spain
  • Non-Lucrative Visa
  • Permanent Spanish Residency
  • Family Reunification Visas

A word from SublimeSpain

Living in Spain as an American is an incredibly rewarding experience, especially for those who are looking to become a Spanish citizen or establish their own business in the heart of Europe. With so many options available – from visas to healthcare and transport links – you’ll find it easy to move and settle into your new home. If you are thinking about moving to Spain from the US, get in touch with us. One of our dedicated SublimeSpain advisors will answer your queries. We offer a service tailored to your specific needs and requirements. Our team of experts will work diligently from start to finish, ensuring a successful transition to your new life in Spain. We look forward to helping you make the move.

Crime in Spain and The Legal System

Crime in Spain is relatively low compared to other European countries. However, you should be aware of some common scams, thefts, and crimes. To ensure your safety while visiting or living in Spain, there are certain precautions you should take. It is important to understand Spanish laws and the legal system to know your rights and responsibilities when it comes to crime.

Is Spain a safe place to live in?

Despite its recent increase in crime rates due to the pandemic, Spain’s crime rate is still one of the lowest in Europe. Spain is still a highly secure nation to live in. The Global Peace Index of 2024 even ranks it amongst the most peaceful countries on earth – at an impressive 23rd place. Spain is 109 spots higher than the U.S.A. and 5 spots higher than the Norway. Spain is much safer than many European countries as violence and property crimes are rare.

However, figures are always relative and the data available may not be completely accurate as it is affected by several factors such as the police force, media coverage, and politics.

Crime in Spain

What is the theft rate in Spain?

Theft rates vary significantly by region in Spain, with some areas experiencing higher rates than others. Below, we provide insight into the theft rates in different cities and regions of Spain.

Andalusia

With the highest population (17.84%), Andalusia unsurprisingly has the highest crime rate in Spain. The crime rate is proportionally higher in regions such as Seville than in other areas. It has a crime rate of 43.6 per 1,000 residents. The most common type of crime is petty crime, theft, robbery, and drug trafficking. In addition, the rate of homicide is higher in comparison to other crimes, such as driving offenses and petty crimes.

Barcelona

In Barcelona, most reported incidents happen in heavily trafficked tourist destinations. Some examples are Las Ramblas, El Prat Airport, Sants train station, Metro stations, and inside Sagrada Familia Area. Moreover, thefts occur frequently around Port Olimpic Area and its surrounding beaches. Other top attractions like Gothic Quarter Park Güell, Plaza Real, and numerous beaches along the coast also had their fair share of undesirable activities.

Valencia

The crime rate in Valencia varied by 12.57 percent in 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. There have been a total of 43,085 criminal offenses, according to data from the Ministry of the Interior’s Crime Balance. Crime in Valencia stands at a rate of 67.6 criminal offenses per 1,000 inhabitants.

Canary Islands

Contrary to their proportion of the national population, which stands at 4.51%, the sun-kissed Canaries have a relatively higher number when it comes to certain crimes such as sex and homicide crimes (6.76% & 6.30% respectively) and robberies (9.00%).

Madrid

Madrid and its surrounding region are the most secure of all large cities in Spain. However, tourists should be cautious when sightseeing around the Prado Museum, Atocha Train Station, Retiro Park, near the Royal Palace, and especially in Plaza Mayor. Most passport and bag thefts occur at Barajas Airport, local hotels, El Rastro (Madrid’s flea market), and within Metro stations. For those traveling to Madrid, it is best to remain aware of your surroundings to avoid becoming a victim of crime.

Types of Crime in Spain

Lottery prize scams

Recently, criminals from various European countries have been using lottery scams to target Spanish residents through emails and letters. In these messages, recipients are told they’ve won a large prize even though there is no evidence that they ever entered the associated foreign lottery draw. To be paid their monetary reward, “lucky winners” must provide personal information, including bank account details, and make an extra payment for so-called “expenses.”

Street swindles

Street swindles involve small groups of people stealing from tourists. Thieves distract tourists and then run away with their belongings, such as wallets, smartphones, jewelry, etc. They use tactics that challenge even the most creative of imaginations. Often, they work together in pairs or larger groups; one person distracts their victim while the others commit a crime. For instance, you might be approached with questions about directions and asked to look at a map – only to discover your possessions have been stolen from behind your back.

Alternatively, someone may “accidentally” spill something on you or pretend to help clean bird droppings off of your clothing as an accomplice makes away with any valuables you had tucked away. Criminals may drop coins or keys at your feet to distract you and attempt to steal your possessions. Fortunately, physical assaults are rare occurrences. However, there are times in which the assailants come from behind and wrap their arms around the victim’s neck to choke them while others rifle through or take away their belongings.

Home visitors scams

Home visitor scams are a tactic used by pickpockets and thieves to gain access to the inside of homes. They may pose as utility workers, postal employees, delivery people, or even police officers to gain access to a residence. Once inside, they can easily steal items that have been left out in plain sight. It’s best to never open the door to anyone unknown. If they do have valid identification, always ask to see it before opening the door.

Sometimes, the criminal masquerades as a worker from an energy provider, such as a gas installation company, to contact their target and lead them to believe that they must perform some kind of system check. Once the resident agrees, these criminals will take advantage of this opportunity by charging for services never actually done.

Housebreaking and Burglary in Spain

Foreigners are often victims of housebreaking and burglary in Spain, as criminals know many have items worth stealing such as laptops, cameras, or electronic devices. Installing an efficient alarm system and/or video surveillance cameras in your home is highly advisable to deter burglaries. If you live in Spanish urban areas, it is also important to be aware of the presence of gangs and organized crime groups that may target homes for robbery.

Domestic Violence

In Spain, there has been an increase in domestic violence over the years. This form of psychological or physical attack may be committed by a family member, a romantic partner, or someone with whom the victim has had previous contact. Violent conflicts can take many forms, from physical aggression to manipulation and control, and can occur in all socio-economic classes. The Spanish government has implemented a law to protect victims of these attacks and prosecute offenders to combat this issue.

Armed conflict

In Spain, several armed groups have been involved in conflicts over land resources and ethnic origin. These groups have been responsible for committing various crimes, including homicide, armed robbery, and causing predatory violence.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking is a major issue in Spain, serving as an important transit point for drug traffickers. Drugs are often behind the motivation for most crime in Spain’s major cities. Drug users in Spain may be more likely to commit petty crimes such as theft and burglary to finance their habit. Spain is one of the primary entryways for cocaine and hashish into Europe, and it’s relatively easy to obtain drugs in urban areas. Though using or possessing soft drugs such as hashish is illegal, authorities often overlook its usage. It is common to see people smoking openly in various bars and clubs. However, the possession and use of hard drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, and heroin are strictly prohibited and punishable by law.

What to do if you’re a victim of crime

Spanish law differentiates between public and private crimes in its judicial system. Publicly-prosecuted offenses are handled solely by the authorities, meaning no external party would be allowed to participate. Private crimes, on the other hand, require a third party to report the crime in order for it to be prosecuted.

If you’re a victim of a crime in Spain, you must report it to the local police or Civil Guard and provide as much information about the incident as possible.

If you’re a foreign visitor, it is also advisable to contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Spain in case you need assistance.

Further questions about crime in Spain

Crime in Spain

Why is crime so low in Spain?

Even though there are very large urban populations in Spain, strong family patterns, often based around rural origins, keep society structured. This contributes to the lowest crime rate in Spain, which is lower than in many other European countries. Crime is higher in countries where the industrial revolution wiped out these family structures.

In addition, the Spanish legal system has tough penalties for certain types of crimes, such as intentional homicides and other violent offenses.

How is crime in Spain compared to the U.K.?

Crime in Spain is generally lower than in the U.K. Spain is one of the most secure countries in Europe, with only 48.8 criminal acts per thousand citizens reported – significantly lower than many other European nations such as the U.K. (79.5), Belgium (74.8), Germany (60.7) and Denmark (53.9).

Is Spain safer than the U.S.A.?

Spain is generally considered to be safer than the U.S.A., with a homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 people compared to the startling 6.3 murders in America’s population per 100,000– a difference that is tenfold. When looking at robberies specifically, the U.S. shows 314 occurrences for every 100,000 individuals while Spain only experiences 129 crimes out of each group of one hundred thousand citizens.

A word from SublimeSpain

Crime statistics in Spain take many forms and affect the safety of individuals living in the country. However, it is essential to understand that the legal system serves as an important mechanism for justice – where those convicted are held accountable for their actions and victims can receive compensation to help heal. As the traveler, it is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with all foreign entry regulations and have the necessary documentation. We always encourage travelers to double-check content before departure from other reliable sources as information can change without notice.

Disclaimer: Information on this page may be incomplete or outdated. Under no circumstances should the information listed be considered professional legal or financial advice. We highly recommend seeking guidance from a legal or financial expert if you lack extensive knowledge or experience dealing with any of the procedures outlined in these articles.

The Notary in Spain: Everything You Need To Know

A Spanish Notary, Notary Public, Notario, Public Notary, or Spain Notary is someone you probably need at one point when you are living or doing business in Spain. In this blog, you can learn more about questions such as: “What is a notary?”, “What are they used for?” and “How do I find one?”

What is a Notary in Spain?

The notary in Spain is an official responsible for authenticating written, signed or sealed documents. They have several functions under the Spanish Law, which include:

  • Authentication of acts and contracts.
  • Authenticating different kinds of documents related to civil law issues, such as wills, testaments, nuptial agreements or other private instruments. The notary is responsible for authenticating the signatures on these documents.
  • Authentication of any public document or document used in a private matter.
  • Authentication of public documents, judicial proceedings or acts appointed by the authorities. Which includes authenticating everything from contracts concluded with third parties to administrative acts.

A notary’s duties also extend beyond individual clients; government agencies may ask them to certify copies of certain documents or act as arbiters in disputes between private individuals or companies.

The Spanish notary serves as a legal expert in the Spanish legal system and certifies Spanish documents. The notary in Spain is responsible for authenticating and legalising contracts and agreements using stamps and signatures. While lawyers put private agreements in writing, the notary brings private documents into the public domain. At the same time, the notary does explain certain legal criteria during the signing. Advising parties during the notary process is not their particular service.

What is a Notary Spain

Why do I need a Spanish Notary?

Notaries exist because the government needs them to settle disputes and legal transactions. They will assist you with legalising agreements. A notary is a trusted third party who has no connection with the transaction or parties involved and works on behalf of the public good. This is the reason why they carry an importance.

Documents that can be notarised include:

  • Transfer of property deeds
  • Where there is no will, a declaration of heirs is required.
  • Legal requirements govern the creation, modification, and split of businesses and partnerships.
  • Settlements in marital disputes
  • Any form of power of attorney
  • Acquittals and the discharge of responsibilities
  • Documents relating to marital status
  • Wills and testaments
  • Contracts and agreements
  • Inheritance declarations and claims from heirs
  • Loans, mortgages, and other debt obligations
  • Other documents such as official statements

Below you can read about the most common reasons to need a notary.

Transferring property title deeds through a notary

One of the main notary services is the transfer of title deeds. Next to a notary, a property lawyer is often involved when buying a property in Spain.

Title deeds are official documents that certify the ownership of the real estate. The title deeds are registered at the Spanish land registry, and it states the owner of the property. When you buy a house from an individual, they will provide the title deed as proof of ownership.

You will transfer the property deed via the notary when you sell or purchase a property. The buyer and seller (or their representatives) have to go to a notary, and the notary will give them a contract or deed they both sign. The document is then notarised by the legal witness and formally completed once a stamp tax has been paid.

The transaction must also be recorded in the Spanish land registry for the transaction to be complete. The notary will inform the land registry of the sale and transfer ownership from one to another.

Transfering title deeds through a Spanish notary

Creating a limited company in Spain through a notary

When creating a limited company in Spain, all shareholders and partners need to go to the notary and sign certain documents which will state their percentage of shares, responsibilities etc. In other words, it will establish the relationship between all parties involved.

After these documents have been signed and witnessed, they must be registered at the trade registry (Registro de Comercio). This will make the limited company official. The notary can also assist you with cancelling a limited company if the need arises.

It is important to have a lawyer by your side to do everything correctly. The notary will only help you with the signing. We have a company registration service in Spain, as well as a comprehensive guide about starting a company.

Changing of the marital status through a Notary

Another leading service of the notary is the changing of marital status. This is done when someone wants to get married or divorced.

The change of status will have an impact on their rights and responsibilities before the law, so it is something that must be done correctly. For example, if the married couple has children together, this act will determine which partner will gain custody.

To make sure that you are not taken advantage of, it is important that this process is done by an experienced notary who specialises in family law. It is also recommended to get a lawyer involved.

This service can be done in the same way as a sale of a property. The couple will go to the notary with their documents and sign a document which they will both witness. When this has been done, the notary will give them an official copy of what they have stated and send all documentation directly to the local Civil Registry Office for them to carry out the final procedures.

Creating a limited company through a notary

How Lawyers and Notaries work together in Spanish law

Lawyers and notaries work together to prevent fraud and protect people. Lawyers have the training necessary to identify fraudulent documents, draft documents, and support clients with the required documents.

The notary uses signatures and stamps to authenticate private agreements to bring them into the public domain. Next to this, notaries are able to verify documents to see whether they are true or false.

Lawyers are often contacted when an individual or company wants to take legal action. They will contact a lawyer who they know has expertise in that type of transaction. The lawyer will then contact the notary to complete the legal act.

Spanish law and the Spanish Notary

Getting notarised copies of documents

Other services that a notary provides are getting notarised copies of original documents (certified by an official stamp) and witnessing powers of attorney.

A copy can be very useful if you need to take care of financial matters in another country, and also when you need to certify your signature on a company document.

Procedures involved drafting documents

Some legal acts under the Spanish law system require drafting legal documents. Drafting a document (Redactar un Documento in Spanish) means the assembly of all the relevant elements in order to produce a text. In Spain, there are no public notaries that draft documents. The service is usually offered by specialised law firms.

Legal procedures

Frequently asked questions

Can a notary abroad be used for Spanish documentation?

Spain is a member of the Hague Convention of October 5 1961, which means that certain documents, such as those concerning civil law, can be certified by authorities abroad and recognised by courts in Spain without having to appear before an official who possesses both.

How much are notary fees in Spain?

Notary fees in Spain are set by the state and notaries cannot charge more or less for a service. The notary fee depends on many factors, including time of year, location, and type of service.

When do I pay notary fees?

You will pay the notary fees before visiting the notary office. You will get an invoice from the lawyer office. When you are working through a lawyer, the lawyer can also send you the bill.

Is there a refund if the notarised document is rejected?

A fee is charged by the notary office even if nothing was drawn up by the lawyer and no signatures were made. If there is a need for further legal work after the notarisation, then the fees will be charged again.

Government in Spain

Do I need to speak Spanish when I visit a notary office?

Although the vast majority of notaries are Spanish, there are also many bilingual ones. That being said, it is recommended to have a lawyer or interpreter by your side. This is because the translator will be able to explain all of the conditions and terms included in each document so that you fully understand what you are signing.

Is there anything else I should know about the process of getting a notary appointment?

A notary procedure is a very formal process. Legal consequences are often attached to documents that are signed before the notary, so the process must be carried out correctly. Notary fees are high, so it is important to make the appointment worthwhile.

The notary will only certify the signature on the document, and their responsibility ends there. It is then up to the signatory to ensure that what they have stated in the document is valid. So if you have any doubts about whether you are the owner of the property, whether you have repaid loan instalments or whether you need to sign a document before an official, it is recommended that you consult with your lawyer.

Where can you find a notary office?

You can find notary offices in all major cities. The best thing you can do is contact your lawyer, who can recommend a notary office for you, and they will help you find the nearest notary. Lawyers often work close with notaries. You can also find a list of notaries and their offices online (in Spanish) and contact them yourself.

What is a Hague Apostille Stamp?

The term “Apostille” refers authentication of a document for use in another nation, and the Stamp is the way to show that the government authenticated the document.

The Hague conference issues an apostille to confirm that a notary seal or signature on a document is valid. It ensures that the notary has acted within his authority and with due diligence. When a document or contract has an Apostille Stamp, it has the legal force of any official document issued in Spain. This way, you can get documents verified in other European countries and other countries around the world that joined the Hague Apostille Convention.

Documents that can carry the Apostille Stamp are private and commercial contracts, power of attorney, certificates of nationality, birth and marriage certificates, financial documents, title deeds any other document that has been notarised.

An Apostille legalises a foreign public authority and gives them authentication. You can find countries that provide a Spanish notary abroad on The Hague Conference on Private International Law.

How long does a notary appointment take?

You will be asked to sign a logbook when you enter the notary office. You will then be required to provide identification and proof of any dueness with the notary’s office. In most cases, you must know the person who referred you. Or at least have been referred by someone known by the notary public. This is part of their due diligence to ensure that the “quien recibe” (the person who recognises the notary) is really who they claim to be.

Spanish Notary Appointment

What happens to documents that you signed at the notary?

A civil or criminal court can use documents signed by a notary, and they can be used as evidence in any official proceedings by any governmental organisation. Documents signed at the notary become public documents that everyone can access.

When you have completed signing a document at a Spanish notary, the notary will send the document to the Registry Office. You can get a copy at the notary when signing or by going to the Registry Office. It is a good idea to get a copy to prove the signing in case anything goes wrong with the official document (and yes, this sometimes happens).

Since a notary only functions as an intermediary between both parties, they will not be involved in future disagreements or wrongfully signed contracts. Therefore, to protect you from a lawsuit or wrongdoings, it is recommended to get a lawyer involved.

A word from SublimeSpain

If you are moving to Spain or have recently relocated, you must understand what a Spanish notary does. You can use them to start a company, change marital status, and buy or sell a property.

If there’s one thing that we would like to emphasise about the work of these professionals, it’s the following. For many legal procedures notaries are required, It is very formal, and you often need help from an expert to deal with them. We hope our article has helped clarify any questions you might have had about notaries.

If you need a lawyer to guide you, we are happy to assist you. We have vast experience with legalities in Spain, and our team is glad to help with your venture in Spain.

Disclaimer: Information on this page may be incomplete or outdated. Under no circumstances should the information listed be considered professional legal advice. We highly recommend seeking guidance from a legal expert if you lack extensive knowledge or experience dealing with any of the procedures outlined in these articles.