Many German citizens are choosing to relocate to Spain for its climate, quality of life, and cost advantages. As EU citizens, Germans enjoy a simplified process — but that doesn’t mean there are no legal steps to follow. From registration and tax matters to real estate and healthcare, knowing what’s required is essential for a stress-free move.
This guide explains how to legally move to Spain from Germany, what documents you need, and how Borderless Lawyers ensures you stay compliant every step of the way.
🇪🇸 Can German Citizens Move to Spain Freely?
Yes. As a citizen of an EU member state, you have the right to live, work, and study in Spain without a visa.
But if you’re planning to stay more than 90 days, Spanish law requires you to:
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Register as a resident in your local town hall (empadronamiento)
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Apply for a EU Citizen Registration Certificate (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE)
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Obtain a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — your tax ID in Spain
These steps are crucial for accessing healthcare, signing contracts, or buying property.
📝 Legal Checklist: Moving to Spain from Germany
| Step | Required For | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| NIE (Foreigner ID number) | Any legal, tax, or property activity | Before or after arrival |
| Empadronamiento (Town Hall Registration) | Access to public services & residency registration | Within 1–2 weeks of settling |
| EU Residency Certificate (green card) | Proof of legal residence for stays over 90 days | Within 90 days |
| Public or Private Health Insurance | Required for residency | Ongoing |
| Spanish bank account | For rent, utilities, and payroll | Immediately |
| Register with Spanish tax authority (Hacienda) | If you become a tax resident | After 183 days/year or economic tie |
✅ Borderless Lawyers handles every one of these steps — in German or English — on your behalf.
🛂 Do Germans Need a Visa to Move to Spain?
No, EU citizens do not need a visa. However, you must prove:
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You have sufficient economic means (job, pension, savings)
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You have health coverage (public or private)
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You intend to reside longer than 90 days
These criteria are verified during your application for the EU Certificate of Registration.
👨👩👧👦 Moving with Family from Germany
If your family members are also German or EU citizens, they follow the same process.
For non-EU spouses or dependents, they must apply for a residency card as family members of an EU citizen. This gives them:
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Full right to reside and work in Spain
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Renewable 5-year residence card
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Access to public healthcare and schooling
✅ Borderless Lawyers handles family reunification applications as part of your relocation plan.
💳 Taxes & Residency – What Germans Need to Know
If you live in Spain more than 183 days per year, you become a Spanish tax resident. That means:
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You’re taxed on your worldwide income
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You may need to declare German bank accounts, pensions, and real estate (Modelo 720)
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You benefit from the Germany–Spain Double Taxation Treaty, so you don’t pay twice
For more on this, see Article 4: Spanish Taxes & Residency for Germans – What to Know
🏡 Can German Citizens Buy Property in Spain?
Yes. Germans can buy property in Spain without restrictions. But it’s important to:
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Get your NIE before purchasing
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Have contracts reviewed by a Spanish property lawyer
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Understand all taxes and fees involved
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Register properly to avoid legal or inheritance issues
See Article 3: Buying Property in Spain as a German Citizen – Legal Advice
⚠️ Common Mistakes When Moving from Germany to Spain
| ❌ Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Not registering with local authorities | Can lead to penalties and limited access to services |
| Assuming your German health insurance is valid | Not always accepted — check carefully |
| Not understanding Spanish tax rules | May result in tax fines or double taxation |
| Using the seller’s lawyer for real estate | Risk of conflict of interest |
| Not translating documents | Spanish authorities often require certified translations |
👩⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Helps German Citizens Relocate to Spain
✔️ Full assistance with residency registration
✔️ NIE, empadronamiento, bank setup, and insurance
✔️ Certified German–Spanish translations
✔️ Real estate and tax planning
✔️ Family reunification for non-EU dependents
✔️ Ongoing legal support — in German or English
✅ Remote legal help available before, during, or after your move.
📞 Call to Action
Ready to move to Spain from Germany?
Let our experienced team help you settle legally, securely, and stress-free.