How to Live in Spain in 2025: Complete Guide for Brazilians

Spain is one of the most sought-after destinations for Brazilians dreaming of living in Europe. With more than 91,000 Brazilians living in the country according to data from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE), the country offers a unique combination of quality of life, a pleasant climate, exceptional gastronomy, and relatively affordable costs compared to other European countries.

In this complete guide, you will find all the updated information for 2025 on how to live in Spain legally, including the updates to the Foreigners' Law (Ley de Extranjería) that came into force in May 2025 and facilitates the regularization of immigrants.

🔔 2025 Update: New Foreigners' Law

As of May 20, 2025, the new Foreigners' Law in Spain came into effect, reducing the minimum residence time for regularization from 3 to 2 years and creating new "arraigo" (social ties) modalities, making it easier for immigrants to legalize their status in the country.

Why Choose Spain to Live?

Spain is considered the fourth best destination for expats in Europe by the Expat Insider 2024 ranking, with the cities of Valencia, Malaga, and Alicante ranked as the top 3 in the world for expatriates.

Among the country's main attractions are:

• Exceptional quality of life: 1st place in the quality of life ranking for foreigners and 12th place overall in Europe according to Numbeo 2025
• Mediterranean climate: Sunshine for most of the year, with mild winters compared to other European countries
• Safety: Very low violence rates, allowing you to walk the streets at any time
• Universal healthcare system: Free public care for legal residents
• Affordable cost of living: 22nd cheapest country in Europe to live in according to Numbeo 2025
• Cultural proximity: Latin language, family-oriented culture, and gastronomy similar to Brazilian culture

Requirements to Live in Spain Legally

To live in Spain for more than 90 days, Brazilians need a visa or European citizenship. Here are the main paths:

With European Citizenship

If you have citizenship from any European Union country (Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, etc.), you can enter and live freely in Spain. However, after 90 days, you must apply for:

• NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero): For citizens of other EU countries
• DNI (Documento Nacional de Identidad): For those with Spanish citizenship

Without European Citizenship

Brazilians without European citizenship must apply for a visa at the Spanish Consulate in Brazil before moving. The process must be started while still in Brazil.

Types of Visas to Live in Spain

There are several visa modalities for Spain, each with specific requirements:

Student Visa: The Most Common Entry Point

The student visa is one of the most popular ways to start a life in Spain. In addition to allowing study, since 2019 it has authorized work for up to 30 hours per week in any field.

Main requirements:

• Enrollment in a course lasting at least 90 days
• Proof of financial resources
• Valid health insurance
• Passport valid for more than 6 months

Digital Nomad Visa: New for Remote Workers

Created by the Startup Law, the digital nomad visa allows professionals to work remotely for foreign companies while living in Spain.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience or a university degree
• Proof of monthly income of at least €2,368 (200% of the minimum wage)
• Company authorization for remote work

New Foreigners' Law 2025: Important Changes

In May 2025, the new Foreigners' Law (Ley de Extranjería) came into force, bringing significant changes for those wishing to regularize their status in Spain:

📋 Main Changes of the New Law

• Reduction of minimum residence time: From 3 to 2 years to apply for regularization
• New "Arraigo de Segunda Oportunidade" (Second Chance Arraigo): For those who lost their legal status
• Flexibility of Arraigo Sociolaboral: Time reduced to 2 years
• Arraigo Familiar: No minimum residence time required, authorization valid for 5 years

The 5 Modalities of Arraigo

Best Cities to Live in Spain

According to the National Geographic ranking, the best Spanish cities to live in in 2025 are:

1. Bilbao - Culture, gastronomy, and modern architecture
2. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - Subtropical climate and quality of life
3. Palma de Mallorca - Natural beauty and tourism economy
4. Murcia - Low cost of living and excellent climate
5. Malaga - Costa del Sol, technology, and culture
6. Zaragoza - Mid-sized city with great infrastructure
7. Seville - Tradition, culture, and affordable prices
8. Valencia - Best city for expats in the world
9. Barcelona - Cosmopolitan and creative metropolis
10. Madrid - Capital, job opportunities, and culture

Cheapest Cities to Live In

If the budget is limited, consider cities such as:

• Huelva - Southern Spain, excellent climate
• Ciudad Real - Castilla-La Mancha, low rents
• Ávila - Historic city with low costs
• Badajoz - Border with Portugal, affordable prices
• Teruel - Aragón, one of the cheapest in the country

Cost of Living in Spain in 2025

The cost of living in Spain varies significantly between cities. Check out a comparison:

Average Monthly Cost for a Couple (2025)

Minimum and Average Salary in 2025

• Minimum wage: €1,184/month (14 annual payments)
• Average salary: €2,273/month gross
• Average net salary: Approximately €1,935/month

Job Market in Spain in 2025

The Spanish economy has shown consistent recovery, with the lowest unemployment rate since 2008 (10.6% in 2024). The country leads post-pandemic economic growth in the eurozone.

Sectors With Most Opportunities

• Information Technology: Software development, AI, cybersecurity
• Renewable Energy: Spain is a leader in solar and wind energy
• Health and Biotechnology: Growing demand for professionals
• Tourism and Hospitality: Traditional sector, always in demand
• Logistics and E-commerce: Accelerated growth
• Digital Marketing: Constant expansion

Most Demanded Professions in 2025

According to LinkedIn Spain, the fastest-growing professions in 2025 are:

1. Travel agent
2. Software specialist
3. Aircraft maintenance technician
4. Artificial intelligence engineer
5. Security analyst (SOC)

Healthcare System in Spain

Spain has a universal, public, and free healthcare system for all legal residents. To gain access, you need to:

1. Be residing legally in the country
2. Complete the "empadronamiento" (address registration)
3. Register with "Seguridad Social" (Social Security)
4. Apply for the "Tarjeta Sanitaria" (health card)

⚠️ Attention

Despite the quality of the system, there are currently long waiting lists for specialist consultations and surgeries (3 to 6 months). Consider taking out private health insurance, which in Spain costs less than €100/month.

Step-by-Step to Move to Spain

1. Planning (6 to 12 months before)

• Define your goal (study, work, retire)
• Research the appropriate visa type
• Choose the destination city
• Make a detailed financial plan
• Start learning Spanish

2. Documentation (3 to 6 months before)

• Obtain a passport valid for more than 6 months
• Apostille documents (certificates, diplomas) with the Hague Apostille
• Get sworn translations if necessary
• Gather proof of income
• Contract international health insurance

3. Visa Application (1 to 3 months before)

• Schedule an appointment at the Spanish Consulate
• Present all required documentation
• Pay consular fees
• Wait for approval (can take weeks)

4. Arrival in Spain (first 30 days)

• Complete the "empadronamiento" at your address
• Open a bank account
• Apply for the NIE/TIE (residence card)
• Register with "Seguridad Social"
• Apply for the "Tarjeta Sanitaria"

Living in Spain With Children

Spain is an excellent destination for families with children:

• Free public education: Quality education at no cost
• Full-day schedule: Children stay at school morning and afternoon, including lunch
• Safety: Children can go to and from school alone
• Pediatric health: Public system with quality care
• Labor flexibility: Many companies offer flexibility for parents

💡 Tip

To choose the public school where your child will study, the system prioritizes families living nearby. Therefore, research schools before choosing the neighborhood to live in.

Pros and Cons of Living in Spain

Pros

• ✅ Pleasant climate throughout the year
• ✅ High safety and low violence
• ✅ Universal healthcare system
• ✅ Lower cost of living than other European countries
• ✅ Exceptional gastronomy
• ✅ Cultural proximity to Brazil
• ✅ Efficient public transport
• ✅ Possibility of citizenship after 2 years

Cons

• ❌ Unemployment rate still high (11.36% in 2025)
• ❌ Lower salaries than in other European countries
• ❌ Bureaucracy for regularization
• ❌ Difficulty renting property without documentation
• ❌ Waiting lists in the public health system
• ❌ Missing family and friends

Practical Tips For Your Move

What to Pack

Be practical! Many properties come furnished. Prioritize:

• Favorite clothes (less is more)
• Objects of sentimental value
• Essential documentation in carry-on luggage: certificates, diplomas, proofs
• Medications with translated prescriptions

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

The bureaucratic "loop": To rent a property you need a NIE, for a NIE you need "empadronamiento", for "empadronamiento" you need a fixed address.

Solution: Try to arrive with a defined housing situation where you can register, even if it is temporary or a rented room.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay in Spain without a visa?

Brazilians can stay as tourists for up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area. To stay longer, a residence visa is required.

Can I work in Spain on a tourist visa?

No. Working without authorization is illegal and can result in deportation and a ban from entering the Schengen Area. It is necessary to have a visa that authorizes work.

How long does it take to get Spanish citizenship?

Brazilians can apply for Spanish citizenship after 2 years of legal and continuous residence in the country, provided they prove integration into Spanish society and have no criminal record.

What is the minimum cost of living to live in Spain?

For a couple to live comfortably in mid-sized cities like Valencia or Seville, consider at least €1,500 to €2,000 monthly. In Madrid or Barcelona, this amount rises to €2,000 to €2,600.

Do I need to know Spanish to live in Spain?

While not mandatory to get a visa, knowing Spanish is fundamental for integration, work, and daily life. Invest in learning the language before moving.

How does the healthcare system work for Brazilians in Spain?

Legal residents have access to the free public healthcare system. Tourists and people in an irregular situation are only entitled to emergency care. It is recommended to have private health insurance for the first few months.

Can I take my pet to Spain?

Yes, provided the animal has a microchip, up-to-date rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel), and an international veterinary certificate. Some dog breeds may have restrictions.

Is it worth living in Spain in 2025?

For many Brazilians, yes. Spain offers quality of life, safety, a pleasant climate, and affordable costs. However, it requires solid financial planning and a willingness to face bureaucracy. The new 2025 Foreigners' Law facilitates regularization, making the current moment favorable for those wishing to immigrate.