How to Move to Spain from Canada

Relocating and moving to Spain from Canada has become a popular trend in recent years, as more professionals and retirees seek a Mediterranean lifestyle. Various factors make life in Spain particularly appealing, such as its favourable climate, excellent healthcare system, art and culture, renowned Mediterranean cuisine, great transportation networks, beautiful beaches, and quality of life.

When deciding to emigrate to Spain, it’s crucial to have a clear purpose for the move. Depending on the reason for relocation, a specific type of visa will be required. Primarily, there is a distinction between moving for work or academic reasons and the intention to reside in the country without engaging in any profitable activity.

Visa options when you move to Spain from Canada

If you’re planning to settle in Spain, understanding the legal roadmap for moving to Spain from Canada is essential to ensure a smooth transition. First and foremost, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate visa. Typically, this process starts at the Spanish Consulate or Embassy office in Canada that corresponds to your area of residence, where your specific residency path will be determined.

At this point, choosing the right visa is crucial because there are various types of visas for Spain, and you should select the one that best suits your purpose of stay. Here are the main visa options, and we will detail the most commonly sought-after ones later:

Entrepreneur Visa, for individuals looking to start a business activity in Spain.

Visa for Highly Qualified Workers or Intra-Company Transfer. In this case, the visa must be sponsored by the employer in Spain, and the residence permit will be linked to the employment contract, renewing consecutively as long as the contract remains in force.

Researcher Visa.

Non-Lucrative Residence Visa, also known as a retirement visa, chosen by individuals who have sufficient financial resources and do not need to engage in economic activities in Spain.

Digital Nomad Visa (for remote work).

Visa for Employment by a Third Party.

Self-Employment Visa.

Study Visa, granted to Canadian students in Spain, but it’s essential to ensure compliance with all requirements and renew this visa as needed to avoid legal issues.

Internship Visa.

Schengen Visa (for short stays). Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa requirement for stays of fewer than 90 days within any 180-day period.

Family Member of a European Union Citizen Visa.

Important Changes to Consider for Entry into Spain: For citizens from outside the European Union, previously, if you travelled to Spain as a tourist or for business for less than 90 days, you didn’t need a visa. However, from January 2024, Canadian tourists will need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before their arrival. This is an electronic permit that allows travel throughout Europe and Schengen countries. It can be applied for online, costs around 7 euros, and once approved, is valid for stays of up to 90 consecutive days within a 3-year period.

At Tejada Solicitors, we have experts in this field and can advise you on the entire visa procedure, taxes, and property transactions. These areas are regulated differently but are interconnected. We always recommend considering the implications of obtaining a visa with regard to taxes, as you might be surprised at how many clients change their minds upon learning about the taxes they will pay in Spain as tax residents.

Non-Lucrative Residence Visa

This type of visa allows for stays in Spain that exceed 90 days, but does not authorize engaging in professional or economic activities. To apply for this visa, you need to demonstrate the availability of sufficient financial resources to cover your stay in Spain. This should be backed by evidence of financial solvency, such as certified bank statements from the corresponding bank. Although this visa doesn’t permit working in Spain, it does allow for remote work for a foreign company from Spanish territory. However, if the goal is telecommuting, there might be another more interesting alternative.

The Spanish embassy in the Canadian jurisdiction where the applicant resides will be responsible for granting this visa, which has a validity of 90 days, during which the beneficiary must enter Spain. Once in Spanish territory, you will have one month to apply for the Foreigner Identity Card at the corresponding Immigration Office or Police Station.

The initial residence authorization is granted for a period of one year, starting from the date of entry into Spain. Subsequently, it can be renewed for an additional two years as long as the necessary requirements continue to be met.

Digital Nomad Visa

This is a visa that has recently come into effect and is granted to highly qualified professionals who will carry out their work remotely for companies located outside of Spain, exclusively using computer, telematic, or telecommunication means. Another requirement for this type of visa is that the Canadian citizen must demonstrate having a work contract with a foreign company that is at least 3 months old and that the company allows remote work.

With this visa, Spain aims to attract talent and make taxation and bureaucracy more attractive for this type of remote worker.

The visa is valid for a maximum of 1 year, and it also serves as proof of residence in Spain, so there’s no need to obtain a Foreigner Identity Card. However, you can request one if you wish to do so.

Permanent residence

Imagine diving even deeper into Spanish life. After five years of legal and continuous residence in Spain, Canadian citizens have the exciting opportunity to apply for permanent residence. This special status allows you to stay in Spain for another five years, granting you the freedom to live and work, either independently or as an employee, enjoying the same privileges as any resident of the country.

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Checklist for moving from Canada to Spain

Here are the essential steps to follow when relocating to Spain from Canada, regardless of the reason for your move. Before your arrival and once in Spain, you will need to fulfill certain legal and tax obligations both in Canada and in Spanish territory. To streamline the relocation process, the Tejada Solicitors team has prepared this checklist:

Assess Your Situation to Determine the Appropriate Visa: It’s crucial to identify the type of visa that best suits your personal situation and your objectives in Spain. It’s important to note that Canadian citizens do not belong to the European Union, so the process may be more complex, and it’s vital to ensure compliance with all requirements.
Initiate the Visa Application Process: Typically, visa applications are started at the Embassy or Consulate of Spain in your home country, with the exception of Digital Nomad Visa, which can be initiated directly in Spain. Once you have obtained the relevant visa, you should travel to Spain within the next 90 days. Once in Spain, you may need to apply for the Foreigner Identity Card, depending on the type of visa you hold.

1. Spanish NIE Number

Obtaining your NIE, which stands for Numero de Identificación de Extranjero (Spanish Foreigner Identification Number), is a crucial step in your journey to Spain. It’s highly advisable to complete this process before your arrival to make your transition as smooth as possible.

In the event that you can’t apply in advance, you also have the option to obtain your NIE while you are in Spain. This can be done through the immigration office or a local police station. Alternatively, our team of lawyers can handle the procedure on your behalf.

2. Tax Residence in Spain

Since you will be establishing permanent residency in Spain, it’s crucial to fulfill your tax obligations as a Spanish tax resident, a requirement for obtaining your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero). According to Article 9 of the Personal Income Tax Law, if an individual resides in Spanish territory for more than 183 days or has their primary financial interests located in Spain, they must become a tax resident in Spain. To achieve this, you must ensure compliance with the following tax obligations:

Personal Income Tax (IRPF) – Model 100: Your worldwide income will be subject to taxation in Spain (capital gains, rental incomes, dividens, etc.). To avoid double taxation, it’s essential to establish a double taxation agreement between Spain and your country of origin.

Declaration of Assets – Form 720: Every individual and legal entity is required to complete Form 720 to declare overseas assets exceeding €50,000 outside of Spain. This step is crucial to prevent any accusations of tax evasion.

Wealth Tax – A tax that levies on worldwide net assets exceeding 3,700,000 euros.

Make sure to stay informed and up-to-date with these obligations to fully enjoy your residency in Spain.

3. Spanish Medical Care

The Spanish healthcare system is recognized as one of the best, and it’s free for those who are affiliated and contribute to Social Security.

If you’re Canadian and in the process of obtaining a visa for Spain, you should be aware that for most types of visas, you will be required to have private health insurance.

However, if you already live in Spain and are a tax resident, you have the option to access the healthcare system at no cost as long as you are employed, either self-employed or as an employee, and regularly contribute to Social Security.

4. Driving License

If you’re a Canadian citizen and decide to establish residency in Spain, becoming a tax resident, it’s essential to know the following regarding your driver’s license:

During the first 6 months of your stay in Spain, you can drive using your Canadian driver’s license. Alternatively, you can apply for an international driving permit, which will be valid for 1 year.

After these initial 6 months, and since there is no agreement between Canada and Spain for the exchange of licenses, you will need to obtain a Spanish driver’s license. To do this, you will have to pass both a theoretical and practical exam. Once obtained, you will need to renew it every 10 years until you reach the age of 65, at which point it will need to be renewed every 5 years.

5. Register your new Spanish address

Upon arriving in Spain and after acquiring or renting a property, it’s essential that, as a resident, you promptly visit the Town Hall office in your locality to register your new address. This register is known as the “padrón.” By registering on it, you will begin to access certain rights in Spain, even before obtaining full Spanish citizenship.

Spain visa for canadian permanent resident

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6. Utilities in Spain

After acquiring or renting a home, the next step is to arrange for essential utilities such as electricity, water, gas, internet, and phone services. If the property doesn’t have these services, you will need to have them activated; otherwise, you can simply change the account holder.

Typically, basic utilities like electricity and water are billed bimonthly, and it’s advisable to set up direct debits for these payments with your bank. As for other services like gas, phone, and internet, they are usually billed on a monthly basis.

7. Set up a bank account

If you decide to establish yourself in Spain, it’s essential to open a local bank account. This account will be necessary for various procedures, such as buying property, paying for health insurance, gym memberships, and more.

To initiate this process, you should have your Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) at hand. While the required documentation may vary from one bank to another, you will generally be asked for your NIE, passport, proof of income, and a statement regarding whether you will be a resident in Spain or not. Depending on your residency status, the account opening process may be more or less complex.

We understand that opening an account in Spain can be a bureaucratic and sometimes tedious process. At Tejada Solicitors, we are here to assist you and make this procedure more straightforward for you.

Authora: María Soledad Sala

Immigration Specialist Lawyer in Málaga

Interesting read: Mistakes to avoid when moving to Spain

What our clients say

        
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Rick Schilling 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After several email correspondences, I had a Zoom call with Rosana Tejada Crespo to answer questions as we consider our move to Spain. Rosana was very helpful, knowledgeable, and professional, but was also very kind and considerate. There is a lot to consider with a potential move like this, and Rosana (and others in the firm) have made the journey easier and less stressful. I highly recommend Tejada Solicitors if you are considering moving to Spain. ¡Muchas gracias a todo su equipo!
  
 
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   Mark Wagh 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tejada helped me with my application for an NLV, which I received this week. My principal contact was Cynthia Caralampio, and the level of service I received was second to none. She was knowledgeable and super-responsive, gave advice in a clear and concise manner, but most importantly, she cared about my application and the outcome. Throughout the process, Cynthia was incredibly patient with my myriad questions and mollified any concerns I had. I am now looking forward to starting a new life in Spain thanks to Cynthia and Tejada. Gracias!
  
 
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   Isabel Mota 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband and I used Tejada Solicitors for our digital nomad visa. This firm was very helpful and eased a lot of our stress since the UGE is always changing their requirements. Cynthia and Rosana specifically were extremely responsive and genuinely went above and beyond. We are very pleased with their services and would recommend them for anyone looking for a digital nomad visa.
  
 
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   Borja Cruz 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gracias José María por la profesionalidad, diligencia y paciencia que has demostrado en cada caso. 100% recomendable!
  
 
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   Jordana Abitbol 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a consultation with Rosana at TEJADA Solicitors and it was excellent. As a Canadian with a corporation back home, I needed advice on structuring myself in Spain, and Rosana - a tax lawyer and the firm's owner, gave me clear, expert answers from the first call. She was especially helpful with information on visa extension options and ways to optimize my tax situation. With most firms you get a salesperson or junior staff, but here I spoke directly with the person who truly knows the subject. Highly recommend for anyone dealing with cross-border tax matters.
  
 
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   Robert M 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Rosana and her team are highly knowledgeable and approachable. They deal with straightforward issues alongside of the more complex. I would highly recommend. The care and attention by Cynthia Caralampio is outstanding. She is very prompt in replying to any query, and was a pleasure to deal with. I can’t recommend her enough.
  
 
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   Daniel Hakim 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I applied to the Spanish government for my digital nomad visa using Tejada Solicitors. They made what seemed to be a very complicated process very easy. I knew exactly what was required every step of the way and I had lots of help. I have been a lawyer for over 21 years and I can say that they are highly professional and clearly effective. I thoroughly recommend their services
  
 
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   Andrew Byrne 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Consistently professional and approachable. Everything was handled with utmost care. We would certainly recommend.
  
 
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   jean-paul devilez 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Un apoyo muy útil, adaptado y flexible en los trámites tan complicados de España. Imprescindible ayuda.
  
 
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   Martin Moisen 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Today I had the first meeting with Tejada Solicitors, which was a good experience. They were professional, detail-oriented, and had answers to all my questions. Additionally they agreed to provide important information even before signing up with them, which is a good service. I highly recommend them.
  
 
 
  
 
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Buying property in Spain as a Canadian

Our specialized attorneys in property transactions will guide you from the outset, ensuring that every detail and nuance of the process is addressed. We will manage all the necessary documentation, always with the aim of protecting your interests optimally. Once everything is in order, we will proceed to the contract signing, advancing towards the completion of the acquisition.

Furthermore, our tax advisor will provide guidance on relevant tax considerations, both before and after the completion of the purchase. Additionally, to assist you in making the best decision, we offer a detailed study of the tax implications as tax residents in Spain.

Renting property in Spain as a Canadian

One of the primary motivations for Canadian residents to purchase properties in Spain is the enticing possibility of generating additional income by renting them out for tourism. If you are considering this option, our tax advisor can thoroughly analyze your real estate investment and provide guidance on the tax implications to consider before formalizing the purchase.

In the event that you choose to allocate your property for tourist rental, it is essential to register it with the Tourism Registry of Andalusia. Our team at Tejada Solicitors is well-prepared to provide you with all the necessary information and assistance in this process. It is crucial to emphasize that failing to register your property in this registry can result in significant penalties.

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Which are the best places to move from Canada to Spain

Spain, with its stunning beaches, exquisite cuisine, iconic architecture, and unmatched hospitality, has established itself as the preferred destination for many Canadians seeking a new home.

Here, we present some Spanish gems that will undoubtedly capture your interest if you come from Canada:

Madrid: Not only is it the vibrant economic and business hub of Spain, but it’s also a center of historical and cultural wealth. It’s the perfect place for those with entrepreneurial ambitions.

Barcelona: This city, famous for its impressive architecture and landscapes, will seduce you with its distinctive way of life. Living here means immersing yourself in a blend of tradition and modernity.

Alicante: A true paradise on Earth. Its sunny beaches and the warmth of its inhabitants make this city an irresistible place to settle down.

Málaga: A genuine jewel of the coast, it’s the Silicon Valley of southern Europe, well-connected with the world, offering a variety of beaches and upscale restaurants. Its friendly people and unbeatable climate make Málaga a place where you’d simply love to live.

Interesting read: How to move to Malaga

How much is the cost of living in Spain?

Both Canada and Spain offer stunning landscapes, friendly citizens, and top-notch medical services. However, many Canadians are drawn to life in Spain due to its milder climate, lower cost of living, and an abundance of healthy food options.

In terms of expenses, living in Spain is approximately 59% more affordable than in Canada. The most notable price differences can be observed in aspects such as housing, food, alcoholic beverages, and childcare. In contrast, expenses like gym memberships and electricity bills maintain a relative parity in both countries.

Can I live in Spain for 6 months of the year?

There are several options for living in Spain for six months a year, among which the following stand out:

Schengen Visa: With this visa, you cannot stay continuously for 6 months, but you can accumulate a total of 6 months throughout the year. Known as a tourist visa, it allows you to be in Spain or any other European country for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. For example, you could split your stay into two periods of 3 months each year, coming to Spain in spring and autumn, thus avoiding the extremes of cold and heat and taking advantage of the best warmth of our climate.

Retirement Visa or Non-Lucrative Visa:Under the new Immigration Regulation (Royal Decree 1155/2024), which entered into force on 20 May 2025, the framework for non-lucrative residence has changed in order to align residence requirements with tax residency criteria and legal certainty.

For 2026, the minimum period of residence required for a holder of a non-lucrative visa wishing to renew their authorisation is as follows:

Minimum period of residence: The beneficiary must remain in Spain for a minimum of 183 days per calendar year.

Link between legal and tax residence : By requiring a minimum stay of 183 days, the regulation ensures that the visa holder automatically becomes a Spanish tax resident, with the obligation to be taxed in Spain on their worldwide income, subject to the provisions of applicable double taxation treaties.

Need a professional consultation to prepare for your move to Spain from Canada?

Tax, immigration, and real estate matters in Spain can be challenging for foreign individuals without the right guidance. At Tejada Solicitors, we approach your case from a 360-degree perspective. Our immigration specialist, tax lawyer, and property conveyancing expert will jointly study and analyze your case. We are here to streamline this process, reduce stress, and ensure your move to Spain is a success. Trust in the confidence and support of our team of specialized lawyers with extensive experience in these procedures.

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FAQ’s

Yes, Canadians need a visa to move to Spain if they intend to stay longer than 90 days. While Canadian citizens can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, any long-term relocation requires a residence visa. Popular options include the Non-Lucrative Visa for retirees and the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers.

Yes, Canadians can retire in Spain by applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), which allows residency without employment. Applicants must prove they have enough passive income or savings (around €28,800 per year), obtain private health insurance, and pass a background check. The NLV is valid for one year and renewable for longer stays. After five years, permanent residency may be possible.

Yes, Canadians who live in Spain for more than 183 days per year are generally considered Spanish tax residents and must pay taxes on their worldwide income, including pensions, investments, and rental income. However, the tax treaty between Canada and Spain avoids double taxation. Notably, pensions received for previous employment as a Canadian public servant (civil service pensions) are taxable only in Canada, not in Spain. However, these exempt pensions must be declared in Spain for the purposes of calculating the applicable tax rate on the rest of the income (known as the progressive taxation rule)

No, Canadians holding a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) are not allowed to work in Spain. The NLV is strictly for individuals who have sufficient passive income or savings and do not intend to engage in any employment or professional activity. This includes both local jobs and remote work, even if the employer is based in Canada. Violating this rule could lead to visa cancellation. Canadians who want to work while living in Spain should consider the Digital Nomad Visa or a work permit instead.

Yes, this is an essential requirement. Since Canada officially joined the Hague Apostille Convention in January 2024, the process has been streamlined, but it remains rigorous. For your RCMP criminal record certificate to be legally recognized by Spanish authorities, you must follow these three critical steps:

Obtainment: You must request a certified criminal record check based on fingerprints (not just a name-based search) from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

Apostille: The document must be apostilled by Global Affairs Canada or the competent provincial authority. This replaces the old, cumbersome “legalization” process at the Spanish Consulate.

Sworn Translation: Once the document has been apostilled, it must be translated into Spanish by a Sworn Translator (Traductor Jurado) accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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How to Move to Spain from Canada

Visa options when you move to Spain from Canada

Non-Lucrative Residence Visa

Digital Nomad Visa

Permanent residence

Checklist for moving from Canada to Spain

1. Spanish NIE Number

2. Tax Residence in Spain

3. Spanish Medical Care

4. Driving License

5. Register your new Spanish address

6. Utilities in Spain

7. Set up a bank account

Authora: María Soledad Sala

Buying property in Spain as a Canadian

Renting property in Spain as a Canadian

Which are the best places to move from Canada to Spain

How much is the cost of living in Spain?

Can I live in Spain for 6 months of the year?

Need a professional consultation to prepare for your move to Spain from Canada?

FAQ’s

Do Canadians need a visa to move to Spain?

Can Canadians retire in Spain?

Do Canadians living in Spain have to pay taxes in Spain?

Can Canadians work in Spain on a Non-Lucrative Visa?

Do I need an Apostille for my RCMP criminal record check to move to Spain

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