Moving to Madrid from Latin America: complete guide

Madrid has been the preferred European destination for Latin American families for years. The language, culture, safety and quality of life make the city a natural choice. But settling in properly requires understanding a different administrative system and making decisions in the right order.

Before you arrive: the visa

If you do not hold Spanish or European nationality, you need a visa to stay in Spain for more than ninety days. The most common options are three.

The non-lucrative visa is for those with passive income or proven financial capacity. It is processed at the Spanish consulate in your country before travelling. The digital nomad visa applies if you work remotely for a company outside Spain. For those already in Spain without regularised status, social or family regularisation are alternative routes.

Many Latin American citizens also hold Spanish or European nationality through descent. In that case the process is entirely different and considerably simpler.

First steps on arrival: NIE and municipal registration

The NIE is the number that unlocks everything: bank account, rental contract, school enrolment. It is requested by appointment at the police station.

Municipal registration (empadronamiento) is worth doing as soon as possible: it gives access to public health services and is a requirement for many subsequent steps. You can register with a rental contract and passport, without a NIE.

The full guide on NIE and residence documentation explains the process step by step.

Housing: renting and buying

Renting in Madrid as a non-EU citizen is possible, but the market is competitive and many landlords ask for additional guarantees: a Spanish payslip, bank guarantee or rental insurance are the usual options.

Buying is also possible before having residency. The mortgage requires a larger deposit (typically 30-40%) but is granted to non-residents at most Spanish banks. For neighbourhood guidance, this guide on choosing a neighbourhood in Madrid helps structure the decision.

Schools and family

For families with children, school is one of the first decisions. Madrid has bilingual state and semi-private schools and private international schools for those who prefer curricular continuity with their home country.

Admission timelines matter: some schools have waiting lists of several months. The guide on international schools in Madrid covers the main options.

Bank account, insurance and taxation

Opening a bank account as a non-resident is possible with a passport and NIE. Some banks open one before the NIE with additional documentation. Private health insurance is advisable from day one while your administrative situation is regularised.

If you arrive with an employment contract in Spain, the Beckham Law can significantly reduce your tax burden during the first six years. Worth consulting an adviser before arrival.

At Aedara we coordinate the full arrival for Latin American families. Tell us about your case.