Country Guide Living in Spain as an Expat
2,500 businesses across 1 city — curated by the expat community
Why expats choose Spain
Spain has long been one of Europe's most popular expat destinations, and its appeal has only grown in recent years with the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa, attractive tax regimes for new residents, and the perennial draws of excellent weather, world-class food, and a relaxed pace of life.
Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands and home to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, has become a standout destination for European expats and digital nomads. With year-round temperatures averaging 22–24°C, direct flights to most European capitals, full EU membership, Spanish healthcare and banking, and a cost of living notably lower than mainland Spain, Tenerife offers remarkable value.
Spain's Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU nationals to reside without working (proof of funds required), while the newer Startups Act introduced a Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers with non-Spanish employers. The Beckham Law provides a flat 24% income tax rate for qualifying newcomers — a major financial incentive. EU citizens can reside and work freely throughout Spain. Healthcare via the public SNS is excellent, and private insurance is affordable and widely used.
Expat cities in Spain
Frequently asked about living in Spain
What visa options are available for non-EU expats living in Spain? +
Non-EU nationals can choose the Non-Lucrative Visa (passive income/savings required, no work permitted), the Digital Nomad Visa (introduced 2023, for remote workers with non-Spanish employers earning €2,160+/month), or the Golden Visa (€500,000 real estate investment). EU/EEA citizens can reside freely. The Beckham Law offers a 24% flat tax rate for qualifying new residents.
How much does it cost to live in Tenerife, Spain? +
Tenerife is more affordable than mainland Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona. Comfortable living costs €1,500–€2,500/month including rent, dining, transport, and leisure. Eating at local restaurants costs €10–18 per person. Rent for a modern apartment is typically €700–€1,500/month depending on location and size. The Canary Islands also benefit from lower VAT (7% IGIC vs 21% mainland).
Is healthcare in Spain good for expats? +
Spain's National Health System (SNS) is considered one of the world's best. EU citizens and legal residents have access to the public system. Private health insurance is very affordable (€40–120/month) and offers faster access and English-speaking doctors — networks like Sanitas, Adeslas, and Asisa are widely used by expats. Tenerife has several modern hospitals with international patient services.
What are the tax implications of living in Spain? +
Spain residents (183+ days/year) are taxed on worldwide income at progressive rates of 19–47%. However, the Beckham Law (Régimen Especial de Trabajadores Desplazados) allows qualifying newcomers to pay a flat 24% on Spanish-source income for up to 6 years — this is particularly attractive for high earners relocating professionally. Always consult a Spanish gestor or tax advisor before relocating.
What is life like in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for expats? +
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a genuine city with over 200,000 residents, offering excellent infrastructure, a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches within easy reach, and a well-established international community. English is less prevalent than in major British expat areas like Los Cristianos, so some Spanish is helpful — though most professionals and hospitality workers speak English. The city offers year-round sunshine, good public transport, and direct flights to most European cities.
