Argentina is one of the countries whose citizens can enter the EU and the Schengen Area member states, including Spain, for a period of three months without the need to obtain a visa. For these citizens, a valid passport will be required to immigrate to Spain from Argentina and spend a limited time in the country. However, for longer stays, as well as for the purpose of relocation, one will need to obtain the appropriate visa and residence permit.
Our team of immigration lawyers in Spain can assist all interested Argentinians considering moving to Spain.
The country has many benefits to offer migrants and is a popular destination in the EU for non-Europeans wishing to move to the old continent. Moving to Spain is attractive for employment in a number of key commercial areas, but foreigners often choose the country for its climate and regions ideal for retirement.
Investors may have various benefits when acquiring property in Spain, as the country has a well-developed Golden Visa program for those with the capital to invest in real estate in Spain. Individuals planning to apply for the corresponding visa to move to Spain should contact the Embassy of Spain in Buenos Aires or another Consulate General in the country. Application requirements vary depending on the type of visa and the purpose of the stay, which is why we recommend speaking with one of our lawyers specializing in immigration matters.
Below, we list the types of visas available to foreigners in Spain and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about immigrating to Spain from Argentina.
What are the main requirements to enter Spain from Argentina for a visa and residency in Spain?
Argentine citizens can immigrate to Spain from Argentina by applying for a long-term visa. The visa will allow the holder to reside in the country and at the same time engage in one or more activities, as permitted by the type of visa.
For example, visas may grant the holder the right to work or study, invest, or stay in the country long-term for non-profit purposes.
The following are the types of visas that can be applied for:
- Study Visa: suitable for Argentinians wishing to attend university courses in Spain or those wishing to enroll in other forms of education.
- Work: a common type of visa, for Argentinians who have a job contract with a Spanish company or employer.
- Investment: for entrepreneurs and investors willing to make a substantial or specific investment, for example in the real estate sector.
- Family Reunification: when one of the spouses is a Spanish citizen as well as in other cases.
- Non-Lucrative Residence: for Argentinians wishing to immigrate to Spain and have the means to sustain themselves without working.
The visa is applied for in person at the Embassy or Consulate General in Argentina, and the applicant must submit both the visa application form and the corresponding fees, as well as supporting documents. For work purposes, these will include the employment contract, as for study purposes they will include the acceptance letter from a Spanish higher education institution.
A special category of visa, the golden visa for real estate investments, is obtained after arriving in Spain and purchasing a property of a certain value.
Individuals who can demonstrate that they can sustain themselves with a steady income may apply for a non-lucrative residence permit.
Argentinian spouses of Spanish citizens may apply for a family reunification visa.
Our team of immigration lawyers in Spain can assist applicants with all necessary details regarding the requirements for certain types of long-term visas.
What are the main requirements to enter Spain from Argentina?
Applicants must know that they must qualify for a certain type of visa. Conditions vary depending on the type of visa, although some requirements remain the same.
Here are more details on the conditions for working in Spain:
- The applicant must be over 16 years old for employment purposes;
- For self-employed individuals, they must be over 18 years old;
- They must obtain prior authorization to work in the country before coming to Spain; the employer is the one who requests this authorization from the competent Spanish authorities;
- They must obtain the visa once the work and residence authorization is issued.
These are just the general steps to obtain a work visa for Argentinians in Spain.
We recommend contacting one of our immigration lawyers in Spain for full details on the process.
Additionally, we can provide you with additional details, depending on your particular case. Our agents will be able to guide you through the process and provide you with details on the applications that the employer must submit.
With the help of our team, you will understand what steps you need to follow and which parts of the process fall on the company, agency, or institution that has hired you in Spain.
What are the steps after the arrival of an Argentine immigrant in Spain?
A key step after immigrating to Spain from Argentina is obtaining the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE). This is mandatory for individuals to rent or buy property, as well as to open a bank account.
The application is submitted to the General Police Directorate of the area where the foreigner will reside.
The NIE application is typically submitted in person along with a copy of the passport, as well as proof of the economic or professional interest (or other reasons) for which the foreigner is making the application.
How to obtain Spanish nationality as an Argentine?
Argentines who have been living in Spain for ten years can apply for citizenship by residence.
The time can be reduced to five years when the applicant has obtained refugee status, or to two years for nationals of Ibero-American countries or other nationals.
When an Argentine is married to a Spaniard, they can obtain nationality within one year provided that at the time of application the couple has been married for one year and have not been separated.
One-year nationality can also be granted to the widow or widower of a Spaniard if they were not separated at the time of the other spouse’s death.
Our immigration lawyers in Spain can provide interested Argentines with more information on the process of obtaining Spanish nationality.
For many immigrants, this is the goal of the relocation process and is a natural step after having resided continuously in the country for the ten-year period or for the reduced periods, as applicable.
In certain specific cases, Spanish nationality can also be lost.
People who believe they may be subject to this, for example, if they are suspected of concealing or fraudulently obtaining citizenship, can contact our specialists to clarify the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Immigrating to Spain from Argentina
What do I need to live in Spain from Argentina?
To live in Spain from Argentina, you will generally need:
- A visa that suits your situation, such as a work visa, study visa, or family reunification visa.
- Meet the specific visa requirements, which may include documentation, financial and housing proofs.
- Register your arrival at the Foreigners’ Office once in Spain.
What should I do if I want to live in Spain from Argentina?
Some steps you can follow include:
- Define the purpose of your stay (work, study, family reunification, etc.).
- Research and select the type of visa that suits your needs.
- Prepare the required documentation and apply for the visa at the Spanish consulate in Argentina.
- Once in Spain, complete additional necessary procedures, such as registration and obtaining the Foreigner Identification Number (NIE).
How to get a work visa for Spain from Argentina?
To obtain a work visa for Spain from Argentina, you generally need to follow these steps:
- Get a job offer from a Spanish company.
- Apply for the work visa at the Spanish consulate in Argentina, submitting the required documentation, including the employment contract.
- Once in Spain, complete registration and obtain the NIE.
How long can I live in Spain without papers?
Staying in Spain without papers (in an irregular situation) is not legal and can have serious consequences. It is recommended to comply with legal procedures and obtain the corresponding visas and permits to avoid legal problems.
What job opportunities are there for Argentines in Spain?
Job opportunities can vary depending on market demand and individual skills. Searching for employment before immigration or taking advantage of labor mobility programs can be beneficial.
Marta Palacios Cuesta is the founder and principal consultant of Es Abogado Extranjería, a law firm specializing in immigration law in Madrid and Seville. With an impressive academic background, Marta offers expert advice on immigration procedures, residency processes and obtaining Spanish nationality. Committed to providing personalized and up-to-date solutions, her firm stands out for its detailed and professional approach. If you need legal guidance regarding your status in Spain, contact Marta for a personalized consultation at Es Abogado Extranjería.