Editorial transparency and use of artificial intelligence
This article forms part of the CostaLuz Lawyers blog and is published for general informational and educational purposes only. It was prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence tools and, before publication, was substantively reviewed and editorially approved by Maria de Castro, a Spanish-qualified lawyer registered with the Cádiz Bar Association under number 2745, founder of CostaLuz Lawyers and the person responsible for the editorial review of the published content.
This article does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, employment, estate-planning or investment advice and does not replace an individual assessment and the professional work of the appropriate CostaLuz Lawyers specialist. No action or omission should be based solely on this information.
As of May 20, 2025, Spain’s new Immigration Regulation (Royal Decree 1155/2024) is officially in effect.
This reform brings major updates to visa types, residence permits, and administrative procedures affecting foreigners in Spain.
Spain Immigration Updates 2025 – What You Need to Know
| Topic | What’s New in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Entry & Exit | Aligned with Schengen Code; “border point” now referred to as “crossing point”. |
| Visas | Extended job-seeker visa (3 to 12 months); new categories for volunteers and trainees. |
| Short/Long Stay | Clearer rules for visa-free stays and student or training-related stays. |
| Temporary Residence | New category for family members of Spanish citizens; self-employment allowed in parallel. |
| Work & Seasonal Permits | New framework for seasonal and circular migration; individual and group-based permits. |
| Family Reunification | Includes dependent adult children and caregivers; updated housing and income rules. |
| Arraigo (Social Roots) | Introduces “second chance” arraigo; clearer definitions for social, labor and training roots. |
| Minors and Education | New rules for children born in Spain or coming for school, medical or holiday purposes. |
| EU Long-Term Residency | Simplified mobility across EU countries; improved procedures for renewal and recovery. |
| Status Modifications | One-stop permit combining residence and work, in line with new EU directive. |
| Documentation | Digital criminal background checks now automatic; new document types accepted. |
Not sure how these changes affect you?
We’re here to help you navigate your move to Spain.
Contact us today to get tailored legal guidance in clear, simple English.
Related Immigration & Residency Guides
- Immigration to Spain — Complete Residency & Visa Guide (2026)
- Non-Lucrative Visa Spain
- Digital Nomad Visa Spain
- Family Reunification Spain
- NIE Spain Guide 2026
- Arraigo Social Spain
- Immigration Lawyers in Spain
Legal Notice: The content on this page is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No action should be taken based solely on this content without first seeking independent professional legal counsel. Each case requires individual assessment based on its specific circumstances. CostaLuz Lawyers accepts no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this content.
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Yes, I see there are new laws in place. We are EU Long-Term Residents (10 years) in the Netherlands who are relocating to Spain. We over age 70. Our family lives here. What do you suggest and how can you help?
If you are an EU Long-Term Resident planning to move to Spain, especially if you are over 70 and have family in another EU country, recent legal changes mean it’s important to plan carefully. You’ll need to register with Spanish authorities and understand your healthcare and tax obligations. Legal documents like wills and powers of attorney should be reviewed for Spain. Professional legal and tax advice can make your transition smooth and compliant. Contact us to learn how we can assist with immigration, tax planning, and legal documentation tailored to your needs.
Hey,
I have Norwegian citizenship and 58 years old.
I would like to know what are my options to can move to Spain. What I need to know or do step by step to can stay legal and what about my health care, what I have to do.
Best regards,
Daniela
Hi Daniela,
As a Norwegian citizen, you can enter Spain without a visa and stay up to 90 days freely. For longer stays, you’ll need to register as an EU resident, get your NIE, and show proof of health insurance and financial means. You can use your European Health Insurance Card for temporary healthcare, but for long-term stay, you’ll need to register with the Spanish health system or have private insurance. We can help you with the entire process and guide you step by step. Feel free to ask if you have any questions!
Hi Maria,
Does that mean you can use your EHIC card while you are waiting to join the Spanish Health System via the S1 form if you are a pensioner?
Yes, but with limits: your EHIC/GHIC may cover medically necessary treatment during a temporary stay while your S1 is being processed, but it doesn’t replace full registration in the Spanish public health system as a resident. Once your S1 is registered in Spain, that becomes your main cover.
Hi Daniela — apologies for the delayed reply
As a Norwegian citizen (EEA), you can live in Spain legally by registering as an EU/EEA resident if you plan to stay longer than 90 days. In most cases you’ll need to show either: (1) employment/self-employment in Spain, or (2) sufficient financial means plus comprehensive health insurance. Healthcare access depends on whether you work/cotize in Spain or rely on private insurance/portable rights from Norway. If you tell us whether you plan to work or retire and where in Spain you’d like to live, we can guide you step-by-step.