Big Changes Coming to Spanish Visas in May 2025: What U.S. Citizens Moving to Spain Need to Know
If you're an American considering relocating to Spain from the US in 2025, you're in luck. Starting May 20, 2025, Spain is introducing major reforms to its immigration laws under Royal Decree 1155/2024. These changes are designed to make it easier for non-EU citizens, including U.S. citizens, to live, work, study and reunite with family in Spain. At Landcross Partners, we’re here to walk you through the most relevant updates and how they can benefit your journey.
1. Faster Legal Residency with Arraigo Reform
The "arraigo social" process allows undocumented individuals who have built roots in Spain to apply for residency. The big news? The required period of continuous residence is dropping from three years to two. This change offers a quicker path to legality for those who have integrated into Spanish society.
2. Easier Recovery of Lost Residency
Lost your Spanish residency? Previously, you'd have to wait three years to regain it. With the new rules, that waiting period is reduced to just two years, giving you a quicker route back to legal status.
3. Simplified and Longer-Term Permits
Initial residence permits will now be valid for two years (instead of one), and renewals will last four years (instead of two). This means fewer trips to immigration offices and more time to focus on settling into your life in Spain.
4. Dual Work Rights from Day One
Say goodbye to the old distinction between self-employed and employed status. New permits will allow you to work as both an employee and a freelancer—ideal for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads planning to relocate to Spain.
5. Job-Seeker Visa Now Valid for One Year
Graduates from Spanish universities can now apply for a job-seeking visa valid for a full year (up from three months). This gives American students more time to find meaningful employment after finishing their studies.
6. Family Reunification Gets More Inclusive
- Children up to 26 years old are now eligible (previously 21)
- Parents of Spanish nationals can apply regardless of age
- Unregistered partners can reunite if they can prove stable cohabitation
This is a significant improvement for U.S. families looking to stay close while abroad.
7. Better Conditions for Students
- Residence permits will now match the duration of your academic program
- Students can work up to 20 hours per week while studying
These updates make it easier for Americans to support themselves and gain experience while earning their degrees in Spain.
8. Special Pathway for Denied Asylum Seekers
From May 2025 to May 2026, those with denied asylum applications who have been living in Spain for at least six months may still qualify for legal residency through alternative programs. This offers a vital safety net for those who may have been left in limbo.
9. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) Updates
To renew an NLV, you now need to prove you’ve spent more than 183 days per year in Spain. In other words, the Spanish government wants to ensure you’re actually living in the country—not just holding a visa while residing elsewhere. This also means you’ll likely be considered a Spanish tax resident.
Plan Your Move with Confidence
These visa law updates signal a major shift toward a more welcoming and flexible immigration system. Whether you’re looking to relocate to Spain to study, work, retire, or reunite with family, the landscape is becoming easier to navigate.
At Landcross Partners, we specialize in helping U.S. citizens secure the right visa for moving to Spain from the United States, finding the perfect home, and settling into their new Spanish life with ease. Reach out today and let’s make your move seamless and stress-free.
