Know exactly what Spain will cost you, before you commit
Most people spend months on forums, YouTube and Google, and still don't have real numbers. I connect you with vetted tax advisors, visa specialists and financial planners who give you real numbers — so your move to Spain is built on a solid plan instead of a fairytale.
The things nobody tells you before you move
💡 These are the financial and legal traps that blindside people every year, discovered only after they've already arrived in Spain:
Maximum tax rate on your worldwide income
Spain taxes global income at progressive rates from 19–47%. That includes remote work income, pension distributions, rental income, and investment returns — regardless of where they're earned.
Threshold that triggers mandatory asset declaration
Hold more than €50,000 in overseas accounts? You must file Form 720 with Spanish authorities. Penalties for non-compliance are severe — and most people don't find out until it's too late.
Days until you become a Spanish tax resident
You don't need a visa. Simply spending 183 days in Spain makes you liable for Spanish tax on your entire worldwide estate — home, retirement accounts, investments, everything.
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From confused to confident in three steps
I've built a network of US-specialist advisors in Spain so you get personalised guidance — not generic blog advice.
A 45-minute personalised session with Carlos at American Legal — specialists who work exclusively with Americans moving to Spain. You'll get a full tax simulation based on your income, assets, and target region. $150. No surprises.
A free introductory call with a cross-border financial advisor who will map out how to fund your life in Spain without triggering unnecessary taxes — covering your 401k, IRAs, dividends, and transfer strategy.
Once you have clarity on the financials, I take over the rest — visa application, flat search, health insurance, NIE number, banking, and every step of your move to Spain. I'm with you start to finish.
About Laetitia
I learned the hard way so you don't have to
When I moved to Spain, I discovered the tax complexity the same way most Americans do, after it was already a problem. Nobody explained the 183-day rule, the worldwide asset declaration, or how transferring pension funds could trigger unexpected income tax.
I built Coming to Spain to give Americans the guidance I wish I'd had. I'm not a lawyer or tax advisor but I've spent years building relationships with the people who are, and who work specifically with Americans relocating to Spain.
What I offer is something different: personalised, project-managed relocation support. I know who to connect you with, when, and in what order. I join your calls when I can. I follow up. I make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Videos About Life in Spain.
From personal stories to expert interviews, my YouTube channel is here to guide you through the relocation process, every step of the way. If you’ve found my content helpful, don’t forget to subscribe 😉
Real Americans, real moves
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.
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This is one of the most common traps. If you transfer US pension or Social Security payments to a Spanish bank account, Spain may classify this as income and tax it — even if you've already paid US taxes. Timing and strategy matter enormously here.
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Non-EU citizens can stay in Spain for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. To stay longer, you'll need a visa. But even without one, spending 183 cumulative days in a calendar year can trigger Spanish tax residency.
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The Non-Lucrative Visa is for people with passive income (pensions, investments) who won't work in Spain. The Digital Nomad Visa allows remote work for non-Spanish clients. Each has different income requirements, tax implications, and processing timelines.
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My initial consultation is free. Most partner services (financial advisor, insurance broker) also offer free introductory calls. The tax & legal consultation with Carlos is $150 for 45 minutes and is the best single investment you'll make in your move.
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It depends on your lifestyle, budget, and — critically — tax situation. Different regions have different income tax rates. After the tax consultation, many clients reconsider their initial city choice once they see the numbers. Valencia and parts of Andalucía are often the most financially attractive.