Retiring in Spain

Thinking about trading your US routine for long lunches, sunny promenades and a slower, more social pace of life? Retiring in Spain: A Comprehensive Guide for American Expats by Scott Miller walks American retirees through the decisions that make a move to Spain actually work: what to expect, what to prepare and which paperwork matters when.

This is a thorough, calm, big-picture guide for readers who want to see how the pieces fit together: residency, taxes on both sides of the Atlantic, healthcare, housing, money, getting around and building a social life.

Inside you will learn:

- How the non-lucrative residence visa works, including 2026 income requirements, insurance, renewals and the path to long-term residence

- Why the golden visa is no longer an option, and what the citizenship timeline looks like

- US tax filing from abroad: Form 1040, the foreign tax credit, FBAR and deadlines

- Spanish taxes for retirees: tax residency, how US Social Security is treated, Modelo 720, property taxes, and why the "Beckham law" does not apply to pensioners

- Healthcare: private insurance, how Americans can reach the public system (SNS) and the wait-time trade-offs

- Buying versus renting, the role of the notary and the real transaction costs

- Driving in Spain, and why a US license must be replaced within six months of residency

- Banking, currency transfers, emergency numbers and building a social network

Ten chapters plus an introduction, conclusion, final considerations, resources and references, a glossary, an appendix and an author's note.

The information reflects the author's understanding as of 2025 to 2026. This book is for general information only and is not legal, tax, immigration, financial or medical advice. Rules change, so always confirm current requirements with official sources and qualified professionals.