How to Settle in Spain from India

Spain—with its sunny Mediterranean climate, welcoming communities, and high quality of life—has become a top destination for Indian migrants. According to reports, in previous years over 51,000 Indian nationals were living in Spain, making them the third-largest Asian group in the country. And demand is growing: Spain expects a 10% rise in Indian visa applications this year, with 100,000+ Schengen requests on the horizon.

From lively cities to historic towns, Indians are choosing Spain for stable healthcare, a thriving job market—including new digital nomad visa options—and a chance to build lasting roots in Europe. For many students, the option to study in Spain also opens doors to permanent residency, thanks to post-study work rights and globally ranked universities.

Additionally, the relatively affordable cost of living in Spain—compared to many other European countries—makes it easier for Indian families and professionals to plan a long-term life abroad.

If you’re wondering how to settle in Spain from India, this guide offers a clear, step-by-step path—covering visa routes, paperwork, arrival tips, housing, jobs, cultural adaptation, and more—to help you create your Spanish story with confidence.

How to Settle in Spain from India – Step-by-Step Overview

Before diving into the details, here is a simple overview of the major steps involved in moving to Spain from India. These steps include choosing the right visa, collecting documents, applying for the visa, and finally adjusting to life in Spain.

There are 10 main steps you should follow:

1. Choose the right immigration path
2. Collect all necessary documents
3. Apply for a visa from India
4. Prepare for your travel
5. Register after arriving in Spain
6. Start working or find a job
7. Settle your housing and finances
8. Apply for permanent residency and citizenship
9. Adjust to local life and culture
10. Tackle common challenges

Let’s now go through each step in detail.

Step 1: Choose the Most Suitable Immigration Pathway

Before applying to migrate to Spain, it’s important to identify the immigration route that aligns with your personal goals—whether you're moving for work, study, investment, or to reunite with family. 

Each visa type has its own eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and long-term residency pathways. Making the right choice at the start can save time, prevent visa rejections, and increase your chances of eventually obtaining permanent residency or Spanish citizenship.

Work Visa Options

Spain offers several work visa categories depending on the type of job, skill level, and sector. Most Indian applicants opt for the Highly Skilled Professional Visa, EU Blue Card, or General Work Visa.
Key highlights:

• Job Offer Requirement: You must have a formal job offer from a Spanish employer.
• Employer Sponsorship: The employer initiates the application with the Spanish Ministry of Labour.
• Sector-Specific Demand: Jobs in IT, healthcare, engineering, and tourism are more likely to be approved due to labor shortages.
• Duration & Renewal: Initial visas are typically valid for one year and can be renewed.

Tip: Ensure your qualifications are recognized in Spain or consider credential evaluation before applying.

Study Route with Post-Study Options

Pursuing higher education in Spain can act as a gateway to permanent residency. Spain has over 70 universities, many offering English-taught programs in fields like Business, Engineering, and Medicine.
Why choose this route:

• Affordable Tuition: Tuition fees range from €1,500 to €4,000 (INR 1.35L–3.6L) per year for public universities.
• Stay-Back Option: After graduation, you can apply for a 12-month job-seeker visa, allowing you to find employment.
• Path to PR: Once you secure a job post-study, you can transition to a work visa and eventually apply for long-term residency.

Note: Proof of funds and private health insurance are mandatory when applying for a student visa.

Non-Lucrative Visa for Passive Income Earners

Ideal for retirees, remote workers, or individuals with steady passive income, this visa allows you to live in Spain without working locally.
Eligibility criteria:

• Stable Monthly Income: Must show at least €2,400 (INR 2.16 L) per month from pensions, rentals, dividends, or investments.
• No Employment: You’re not permitted to work for Spanish companies under this visa.
• Family Members: You can bring dependents by showing additional financial resources.
• Renewable: Initially valid for one year, renewable every two years, with a path to long-term residence after five years.

Pro tip: This visa is popular among digital nomads and early retirees from India seeking a quality lifestyle and healthcare.

Entrepreneur and Investment Visas

Spain encourages entrepreneurs and investors through two key options:

1. Startup Visa (Entrepreneur Visa): For innovative business ideas that contribute to the Spanish economy.
   • Requires approval from ENISA (Spanish startup agency).
   • Must demonstrate technical and financial feasibility.
2. Golden Visa (Investor Visa): For individuals investing at least €500,000 (INR 4.5 Cr) in Spanish real estate or government bonds.
   • Includes fast-track residence.
   • No minimum stay requirement to maintain the visa.
   • Family members (spouse, children, dependent parents) can be included.

These visas are suitable for high-net-worth individuals or Indian entrepreneurs looking to expand into the EU market.

Family Reunification Route

If you already have close family members residing legally in Spain, you may be eligible to join them through the Family Reunification Visa.
Eligible relatives include:

• Spouse or legal partner
• Minor children or dependent adult children
• Parents (if the sponsor is a long-term resident)

Conditions:

• The sponsor must have lived in Spain legally for at least one year.
• Proof of stable income and housing is required.
• Processing times are faster compared to work or study visas.

This route is one of the most straightforward for Indian nationals with family in Spain and often leads to permanent residency.

For more information, read: Spain to Offer Visa Relaxation for International Students and Graduates.

Once you've chosen your immigration pathway, the next step is to gather all required documentation, such as medical certificates, financial proof, academic records, and translated documents where necessary. Proper documentation is critical to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 2: Fulfill Eligibility Criteria and Collect Required Documents

Each visa type for Spain comes with its own rules. You’ll need to prepare several important documents in advance. Being well-organised at this stage helps avoid delays, visa denials, or repeated embassy visits.

Income Proof and Accommodation Evidence

You must prove you can financially support yourself in Spain and have a place to stay. This gives confidence to Spanish authorities that you won’t become dependent on their system.

For income proof:

• Work Visa: Submit your job offer and salary contract.
• Study Visa: Show bank statements, scholarships, or a sponsor letter with proof of funds. Usually, you need around €700–€1,000/month (INR 63,000–90,000).
• Non-Lucrative Visa: Minimum monthly income of around €2,400 (INR 2.16 L) from pensions, rent, or other sources.
• Family Reunification: Your sponsor must show stable income to support you.

For accommodation proof:

• A rental agreement, hotel reservation, or invitation letter from a relative/friend in Spain is needed.
• The address must be valid and match what you write in your visa application.

Police Clearance and Medical Certification

You must show that you have a clean background and are medically fit. This step is required for almost every Spanish visa type.

Here’s how to go about it:

• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): Issued by the Regional Passport Office or local police. It proves you haven’t been involved in any crime.
• Medical Certificate: A certified doctor must state that you are free from contagious diseases. It should mention you are “not suffering from any disease that could pose a risk to public health.”
• Both documents should be recent, not older than 3 months at the time of submission.

Tip: Keep extra copies of these in case the consulate asks for backup.

Apostille and Spanish Translations

Spain is part of the Hague Convention, so your official Indian documents need an apostille—a type of international stamp to confirm they are genuine.

What needs to be apostilled:

• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applying with a spouse)
• Educational degrees or diplomas
• Police and medical certificates

Where to get them:

• You can apostille documents via the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India or MEA-authorised centres.

Translation:

• Once apostilled, all documents must be translated into Spanish.
• Use a certified Spanish translator only—some Spanish embassies have a list of approved translators.

This step is often time-consuming, so start early and double-check your documents for accuracy.

Once you’ve collected and prepared all the necessary documents, the next important step is to submit your visa application correctly and attend the visa interview (if required). This brings you closer to living your new life in Spain.

Step 3: Apply for the Relevant Visa from India

Once all your documents are ready, it’s time to apply for the visa. This step involves visiting the visa office, paying fees, and attending an appointment. It’s best to apply early to avoid last-minute stress.

Application Centres and Booking Appointments

You must go to a Spanish visa center or consulate to submit your application. But first, you need to book an appointment online.

Here’s what you should know:

• Visa applications for Spain from India are handled by BLS International, a partner of the Spanish Embassy.
• Spain has visa centres in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
• You must book your appointment in advance on the BLS website. Walk-ins are not allowed.
• On the day of your appointment, arrive early with all original documents and copies.

Tip: Avoid peak times like summer or student intake seasons to get earlier slots.

Visa Fees, Documentation, and Interviews

During your appointment, you’ll need to submit documents, pay fees, and answer basic questions about your move.

Important points:

• Visa Fee depends on the type:
  • Work Visa: approx. €80 (INR 7,200)
  • Study Visa: approx. €60–80 (INR 5,400–7,200)
  • Non-Lucrative Visa or Golden Visa: fees may be higher, depending on case
• Bring all original documents and passport-sized photos as per embassy specifications.
• You may have a short interview where they ask:
  • Why are you going to Spain?
  • Where will you stay?
  • How will you support yourself?
  • What are your future plans?

Tip: Answer clearly and confidently. Keep your answers simple and honest.

Waiting Period and Application Outcome

After you’ve applied, it’s time to wait. The time it takes to get your visa can vary, depending on the type of visa and your case.

What to expect:

• Normal processing takes about 15 working days, but some visas (like work or non-lucrative) can take up to 30–60 days.
• You can track your application status online through the BLS portal or by visiting their centre.
• Once a decision is made, you’ll get a notification to collect your passport. If approved, your visa will be stamped inside.

If rejected:

• Don’t panic. Check the reason, fix the issue, and reapply.
• In some cases, you may file an appeal.

Once your visa is approved, congratulations! You’re one big step closer to starting your new journey in Spain. Now it’s time to get ready for the big move—booking flights, packing, and settling into your new home abroad.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Move to Spain

Now that you have your visa, it’s time to plan your journey. A little preparation can make your arrival and first few weeks in Spain much easier, smoother, and less stressful.

Book Flights and Choose the Right City

Choosing the right city and booking your flight early can save you both money and trouble.

Here’s what to consider:

• Madrid and Barcelona are top choices for work opportunities, especially in business, tech, and tourism.
• Valencia, Seville, or Malaga offer a slower pace, lower cost of living, and a relaxed lifestyle.
• Book flights 2–3 months in advance for cheaper rates. Use comparison websites to get the best deals.
• Try to book direct flights from India to Spain if available, or choose transit routes with short layovers.

Tip: Arrive a few days before your job or course starts to adjust to the new environment.

Travel Insurance and Forex

Carrying insurance and money in the right way keeps you safe and ready for unexpected situations.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Travel Insurance is not just a formality. It helps cover emergencies like medical issues, lost baggage, or flight delays.
• Some visa types require you to have valid health or travel insurance already.
• Carry some cash in euros (€200–€500) for small expenses during your first few days.
• A forex card is safer than carrying a lot of cash. You can reload it online and use it like a debit card in Spain.

Tip: Always inform your bank before travelling so they don’t block your card when you use it abroad.

Must-Carry Documents and Essentials

Keeping all your important papers and basics ready will avoid panic at the airport or after landing.

Pack the following in your hand luggage:

• Original passport with visa
• Flight ticket printout
• Visa approval letter (if any)
• All educational or work documents
• Aadhar and PAN cards (optional but helpful)
• Prescription medicines with a doctor’s note
• A list of emergency contacts, both in India and Spain
• Some ready-to-eat food for the first day or two

Tip: Keep digital copies of all documents in your phone or cloud storage.

Now that your bags are packed and your flight is booked, the next step is to get legally registered once you land in Spain. This will make your stay official and open doors to services like healthcare, jobs, and rentals.

Also Read: Accommodation in Spain: Average Rent, Top Cities, and Student Housing Tips

Step 5: Complete Mandatory Registrations After Arrival

Once you arrive in Spain, there are a few legal steps you must complete to live comfortably and access local services. These registrations are essential and should be done as soon as possible to avoid any problems later.

Empadronamiento (Town Hall Registration)

Empadronamiento is the first step after arriving. It’s a record of where you live and proves that you are a resident of that area.

Here’s how it works:

• Visit your nearest Ayuntamiento (town hall) and submit your address details.
• Carry a rental agreement or a letter from the person you are staying with, along with your passport and visa copy.
• Once registered, you’ll receive a padrón certificate.

Why it matters:

• It’s needed to apply for health insurance, school admission for children, and other local services.
• It also proves how long you’ve lived in Spain, which helps when applying for permanent residency later.

Tip: Book an appointment online in advance, as walk-ins may not be allowed in some cities.

NIE (Foreigner Identity Number) Application

The NIE is like your personal ID number in Spain. Without it, you can’t do things like get a job, rent a house, or pay taxes.

Here’s what to do:

• Apply at the police station or immigration office in your city.
• You’ll need your passport, visa, empadronamiento certificate, and a form (EX-15) that you can download online.
• Pay a small processing fee at the bank before your appointment.

Once approved, you’ll get a printed NIE number, which will be your key to doing anything legal in Spain.

Tip: If you applied for a visa that already includes NIE processing (like the student visa), you might get it automatically after arriving.

Local Bank Account and SIM Card

Setting up a local bank account and getting a mobile number makes your life in Spain much easier.

To open a bank account:

• Visit any local bank with your passport, NIE, and proof of address (padrón certificate).
• Some banks offer non-resident accounts, which you can open even without the NIE (though this may be limited).

For a SIM card:

• Carry your passport and address proof.
• Choose from providers like Vodafone, Orange, Movistar, or Yoigo.
• You can pick prepaid or monthly plans based on your stay duration.

Tip: Some mobile stores have staff who speak English, especially in big cities like Madrid or Barcelona.

With these steps complete, you are now legally and practically settled in Spain. The next step? Start exploring job opportunities or get ready to begin work or studies in your new life abroad.

Step 6: Start Working or Look for Jobs

Once you’ve completed your legal registrations, it’s time to either begin your job or start searching actively. Spain offers many work opportunities for skilled professionals, especially in sectors where international talent is welcome.

Jobs in Demand for Indians

Some industries in Spain are more open to hiring foreigners, especially those who speak English or have tech and business skills.

Here are some popular fields:

• Information Technology (IT) – Software engineers, web developers, and data analysts are in demand.
• Tourism & Hospitality – Spain is a tourist hotspot, so hotels, travel agencies, and restaurants often need multilingual staff.
• Teaching English – Many Indian professionals teach English in schools, academies, or privately.
• Healthcare – Doctors, nurses, and caregivers with valid certifications may find opportunities.
• Engineering & Research – Spain has a growing market for civil engineers and researchers, especially in urban areas.

Looking at the bigger picture? Spain has growing job opportunities for international students, especially in major cities.

Many companies are open to hiring skilled workers from India, especially if you bring experience and qualifications that are hard to find locally.

Importance of the Spanish Language

While there are English-speaking jobs, knowing Spanish can really improve your chances.

Here’s why learning Spanish is useful:

• It helps you talk to local colleagues, clients, and service providers.
• Most companies prefer candidates who can speak and understand Spanish, even at a basic level.
• It also helps you feel more comfortable and confident in day-to-day life.

Where to learn Spanish:

• Many cities offer free or low-cost Spanish classes for foreigners through local government centers.
• You can also use apps like Duolingo or take online courses tailored for beginners.
• Some language schools offer evening classes, which you can attend after work.

Even learning a few phrases can go a long way in helping you settle better.

Job Portals and Networking Tips

Finding a job in Spain is easier when you use both online platforms and real-life connections.

Useful job search websites:

• InfoJobs – Spain’s largest job portal for local and international roles.
• LinkedIn Spain – Great for networking and applying directly to companies.
• Indeed España – Has many English-speaking job listings.
• Glassdoor Spain – Helps you understand salaries and company reviews.

Tips for a faster job search:

• Create a Spanish-style CV (simple format, clear job role, no photos unless required).
• Join expat communities and local meetups to connect with others who may know of job openings.
• Visit job fairs, especially in big cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

Also, keep your documents ready—like your NIE, residence card, and copies of qualifications—to speed up hiring once you get selected.

Once you’ve settled into your job, the next thing to focus on is finding a comfortable place to live and managing your finances wisely.

Step 7: Secure Long-Term Housing and Plan Your Finances

After you settle into your job, the next important step is finding a place to live and making sure your monthly budget is manageable. A stable home and good financial planning make life in Spain more relaxed and comfortable.

Renting vs. Buying Property

When you're new in Spain, renting is usually the best choice. It’s flexible, less expensive upfront, and gives you time to explore different neighborhoods.

Here’s how to go about it:

• Use websites like Idealista, Fotocasa, or Badi to find flats or shared apartments.
• Shared flats (pisos compartidos) are very common and cost-effective for new arrivals.
• You’ll usually need to pay one month’s rent + deposit (sometimes two months).

Once you're settled, and if you plan to stay for many years, you can consider buying a home. Spain offers mortgage options to residents with legal status and stable income. However, it’s wise to rent for at least 6–12 months first.

Cost of Living Estimates

Understanding how much you’ll spend each month is crucial, especially in the first year.

Here’s an average monthly breakdown for one person:

• Rent: €400–€700 (INR 36,000–63,000) depending on the city and apartment type
• Food & Groceries: €150–€250 (INR 13,500–22,500)
• Transport: €30–€60 (INR 2,700–5,400) for metro/bus cards
• Utilities & Internet: €80–€120 (INR 7,200–10,800)
• Miscellaneous & Leisure: €100–€150 (INR 9,000–13,500)

So, overall, you might need around €800–€1,000 (INR 72,000–90,000) per month for a decent lifestyle.

Tip: Use apps like Splitwise, Revolut, or XE to track expenses and manage money smartly.

Most Affordable Cities for Expats

Spain has many beautiful cities, but some are more budget-friendly than others.

Here are great cities where you get a good balance of cost and quality of life:

• Valencia – A coastal city with great food, weather, and lower rents.
• Seville – Rich in culture and tradition, and less expensive than Madrid.
• Zaragoza – A hidden gem with good job opportunities and affordable living.
• Granada & Málaga – Popular among students and retirees, with lower housing costs.

In contrast, Madrid and Barcelona offer more jobs but are costlier, especially in terms of rent.

Once your living situation is sorted and your budget feels stable, you're in a strong position to think about long-term residency or even citizenship in Spain.

Step 8: Transition to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Once you’ve lived in Spain for a few years, you can start the process of staying there permanently. You’ll first renew your temporary residence, then apply for Permanent Residency (PR), and later, citizenship if you plan to stay long-term.

Temporary Residence Renewal Rules

When you first move to Spain, your visa or residence permit is usually valid for 1 to 2 years. To continue staying legal, you need to renew it before it expires.

Key things to remember:

• You must stay in Spain for at least 183 days each year (more than half the year).
• You should not leave the country for too long or too often.
• Keep your documents updated and follow any work or study rules linked to your visa.

Renewals are usually done through the Extranjería office or online via Spain’s immigration portal. Always apply a few months before your permit ends.

Applying for Permanent Residency (PR)

If you’ve stayed in Spain legally for 5 continuous years, you can apply for permanent residency. This means:

• You don’t have to keep renewing your permit every 1-2 years.
• You get access to more public benefits, like healthcare.
• You can work or do business more freely.

You will need to show:

• Proof of continuous legal stay (such as visa copies and registration papers).
• Financial stability or job proof.
• No serious criminal record.

PR cards are usually valid for 5 years and can be renewed easily.

Naturalization and Spanish Citizenship

After 10 years of legal stay (or just 2 years if you’re from a Latin American country, the Philippines, or Equatorial Guinea), you can apply for Spanish citizenship through naturalization.

Important points:

• You must pass two basic tests: DELE A2 (Spanish language) and CCSE (culture and legal knowledge).
• You’ll need to show good conduct, integration into Spanish life, and financial stability.

⚠️ Note for Indians: India does not allow dual citizenship, so if you accept Spanish nationality, you’ll need to surrender your Indian passport. However, you can apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, which gives you many benefits in India even if you are no longer a citizen.

Once you become a long-term resident or citizen, you’re truly part of Spain—and the final step is embracing the culture, making local connections, and living your best life abroad.

Step 9: Settle into the Community and Local Culture

Settling in Spain isn’t just about legal paperwork—it’s about creating a life you enjoy. Making new friends, embracing the culture, and staying connected to your roots will help you feel truly at home.

Learning Spanish and Local Etiquette

Learning even basic Spanish can open doors. Simple words like “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), and “Por favor” (Please) go a long way in daily conversations.

Understanding cultural norms is equally important:

• Spaniards greet with a kiss on both cheeks—even in casual settings.
• They value punctuality less, so expect flexibility in meeting times.
• Lunch is usually the biggest meal of the day, and siesta hours (2–5 PM) can affect business timings.

Joining language classes, local meet-ups, or volunteering can speed up your integration.

Indian Communities and Events

Spain has a growing and vibrant Indian diaspora, especially in cities like:

• Madrid – Home to temples, Indian restaurants, and Bollywood nights.
• Barcelona – Offers cultural societies, cricket clubs, and language exchange programs.
• Valencia & Malaga – Smaller but close-knit Indian circles.

Indian associations often host group meetups, religious festivals, and even Indian Independence Day celebrations. These communities can provide emotional support and networking opportunities for jobs or housing.

Celebrating Indian Traditions Abroad

Living abroad doesn’t mean letting go of your roots. In Spain, you can still enjoy:

• Diwali & Holi festivals hosted by Indian cultural groups
• Eid and Gurpurab gatherings at community centers or homes
• Navratri dances, Onam feasts, or even Ganesh Chaturthi processions in bigger cities

Many events are open to all and draw curious locals, making it a great chance to share your culture and make cross-cultural friendships.

Embracing life in Spain is about finding the right balance—immersing yourself in Spanish culture while holding onto your Indian identity. But like any journey, you might face challenges too. Let’s explore how to handle them next.

Step 10: Overcome Common Settlement Challenges

Adjusting to life in Spain takes time. While some hurdles may seem frustrating, knowing what to expect—and how to deal with it—can make your transition smoother.

Bureaucratic Hurdles

Spain is known for its lengthy paperwork and administrative delays. Processes like visa renewals, residency cards, or public services can take time.
✔️ Always keep copies of your documents.
✔️ Follow up politely and regularly.
✔️ Consider hiring a gestor (local administrative expert) to help.

Indian Qualification Recognition

Certain Indian degrees, especially in regulated professions (like law, teaching, medicine), require official validation (called homologación or equivalencia).
Apply through the Spanish Ministry of Education and be ready to submit transcripts, syllabi, and translations.

Coping with Cultural Differences

Culture shock is real, from daily routines to humor and social etiquette. You might feel isolated or miss home.
✔️ Stay connected to Indian communities.
✔️ Join expat or language exchange groups.
✔️ Give yourself time—it gets easier.

Each challenge you overcome makes you more confident and resilient. Spain has its quirks, but it also offers a high quality of life and warm, welcoming people.

Conclusion

How to Settle in Spain from India may seem like a long journey, but with careful planning, it becomes smoother with each step. From choosing the right visa to building a new life, every action takes you closer to your goal.

Spain is not just a beautiful country—it’s a place where you can grow, thrive, and find a second home. With patience, positivity, and preparation, your dream life in Spain is truly possible.

Ready to make your move to Spain? Talk to our experts in a Free 1:1 Counselling Session and get personalised guidance—book yours today!