Spain
Discover the unique culture, demographics, and society of Spain.
The Story
Overview
Spain's powerful world empire of the 16th and 17th centuries ultimately yielded control of the seas to England. A peaceful transition to democracy after the death of dictator Francisco FRANCO in 1975 and rapid economic modernization after Spain joined the EU in 1986 have given Spain a dynamic and rapidly growing economy.
Immigration Guide
Living in Spain
Explore the various visa and residency options available for living in Spain. From retirement visas to digital nomad programs, discover the pathways to making Spain your new home.
Lifestyle & Retirement
Options for those seeking a change in lifestyle, whether retiring or working remotely.
Digital Nomad
Ideal for remote workers and digital professionals who want to live in the country while working for overseas companies.
Status in Spain: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Spain.
Investment & Business
Pathways for those looking to invest or work in the country.
Investment
Limited AvailabilityFor those interested in making a significant financial investment in the country, such as purchasing property or starting a business.
Status in Spain: Available with some restrictions. We recommend consulting with an immigration lawyer for the latest details.
Working
Permits you to work locally in the country, either for a specific employer or in general.
Status in Spain: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Spain.
Long-term Residency
Options for those seeking to establish permanent roots.
Permanent
Long-term residency rights that allow you to live in the country indefinitely.
Status in Spain: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Spain.
Citizenship
The opportunity to become a full citizen of the country, often after meeting specific residency requirements.
Status in Spain: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Spain.
Additional Options
Other pathways including education and family reunion.
Student
Designed for those pursuing education at local institutions.
Status in Spain: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Spain.
Family
Options for bringing family members or joining relatives already in the country.
Status in Spain: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Spain.
Note: Immigration policies can change. Always consult with the Spain embassy or a qualified immigration lawyer for the most current information and personalized advice.
The Land
Geography
Area
Climate
Temperate; clear, hot summers in interior, more moderate and cloudy along coast; cloudy, cold winters in interior, partly cloudy and cool along coast
Natural Resources
Leadership
Government
Government Type
parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Capital
Madrid
Executive Branch
Chief of State
King FELIPE VI(since 2014-06-19)
Head of Government
Prime Minister Pedro SANCHEZ PEREZ-CASTEJON(since 2018-06-02)
Demographics
People and Society
Population
47,280,433 total residents
Ethnic Groups
Languages
Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Galician, Basque, Aranese
Religions
Population Growth
0.12% annual growth rate (2024 est.)
Your American Community in Spain
Safety First
Travel Safety & Requirements
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest
View Current Travel Advisories →Passport/Visa Requirements
Please consult the U.S. State Department for current visa requirements
Check Requirements →US Embassy/Consulate
Phone: [34] (91) 587-2200
Address: Calle de Serrano, 75, 28006 Madrid, Spain
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
View Travel Considerations →Recommended Vaccinations
hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningitis, polio, MMR, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, influenza
Learn More at WHO →Getting Started
Helpful Things to Know
In Case You Need Help
Emergency Number to Call
112
Country Phone Code
+34
Local Money
Euro (EUR)
What Time Is It?
UTC+1
Plugging In Your Devices
Power Voltage: 230
Power Frequency: 50
Power Plug Types You'll Need: C, F
About the Water
Yes
Local Knowledge
Travel Tips & Culture
Driving
Suggested
Drive on the Right side of the road
Cultural Practices
Dinner is served later in Spain than in many other countries. It is common for the meal to be served around 9 p.m.
Tipping Guidelines
Restaurants
10% for evening meals, 1 euro per person for daytime meals
Bars
Not specified
Tour Guides
Not specified
Taxis
Not specified
Hotels
1-2 euro for room service, 2-3 euros for housekeeping at end of stay
Experience
Tourist Information
Popular Destinations
Traditional Cuisine
Paella
A one-pot dish consisting of saffron-flavored rice simmered in a broth of garlic, tomatoes, freshly cooked vegetables, and meat and/or seafood