Has anyone moved/retired to Spain from the US? If so, how did you get residency or extended visa?

Question

If you own, how was the real estate purchase process?

Answer 1

I word of caution about buying real estate in Spain.

Do not take anything for granted and certainly the rules as they apply to our real estate professionals do not exist there.  Everything is negotiable: prices, fees, due dates, etc.

Demand documentation, especially as it relates to the issue of clear and free title.

It can be done, but you will not have the kinds of resource materials that we have here like real estate summaries for properties on the market in different areas.  We have the luxury of being able, as only one example, to review how long properties have been on the market before they've sold (DOM = Days on Market); information that is invaluable if you are planning on making a purchase as an investment.

Be careful and good luck!

Answer 2

I have 3 friends that were stationed with me in Spain who have since gotten out of the Navy and are living there. If you and/or your family plan to retire in Spain for an extended period you will have to apply for "Residencia".

The "Residencia" is a permit to live in Spain indefinitely, and will be granted only if you can show that you have monetary funds to support yourself and your family. The last I knew US Citizens could stay up to 160 days without applying for an extended Visas or doing extra paperwork. My friends live in Southern spain and while going through the long "residencia" process they would travel to Morocco which reset their Visa. I am not sure of the technicalities but also plan on carrying your own Health private health insurance. It is a requirement for Non-Spanish citizens to be able to live in Spain. Try contacting the Spanish Consulate General in New York City. They are friendly and will answer all of your questions or get you started in the right direction.

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