Relocation guide · 2026
Moving from United States to Spain 🇪🇸
Mediterranean lifestyle, Beckham law for new residents, lower COL.
The tax picture
Stay in United States
$46,500
Estimated tax on $150,000
Move to Spain
$36,000
Local tax estimate
Cost of living
-24%
vs. United States (Numbeo-style index)
Local tax regime
24% flat on Spanish income up to €600k under the Beckham regime for 6 years.
Residency / visa
Digital Nomad visa (Beckham-eligible)
What still applies (US)
FTC usually offsets US tax; Spain has a wealth tax to watch in some regions.
Headline program
24% flat (Beckham Law)
All figures are illustrative estimates for tax year 2026 and do not constitute tax advice. Verify with a qualified expat CPA.
Frequently asked questions
How much tax could I save moving from United States to Spain?
On an income of $150,000, our model estimates an annual saving of roughly $10,500 — that is the net figure after accounting for the US federal tax that still follows American citizens (via FEIE/Foreign Tax Credit). Use the calculator for your exact income.
As a US citizen, do I still file US taxes after moving to Spain?
Yes. The US taxes citizens on worldwide income regardless of where you live. You can exclude earned income via the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (Form 2555) or credit foreign taxes via the Foreign Tax Credit (Form 1116), but you must keep filing — and report foreign accounts on the FBAR and possibly FATCA Form 8938.
What visa do I need to live in Spain?
Spain's main route for relocating professionals is the Digital Nomad visa (Beckham-eligible). Requirements, timelines, and costs vary — the AI planner can walk you through the specific path for your situation.
Is Spain cheaper than United States?
Spain has a cost-of-living index of about 58 (Numbeo-style, where New York ≈ 100). Compare it directly with other destinations on the Compare page.
Know someone considering the same move?
Share this guide with your partner or accountant.