Skip to content
Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain

Relocation Specialist

Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain

Relocation Specialist

  • Home
  • Spain Visas
    • Digital Nomad Visa
    • Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
    • Self-Employed Visa (Cuenta Propia)
    • Work Permit Visa
    • Family Reunification Visa
    • Highly Skilled Executives
    • Entrepreneur Visa
    • Exceptional Circumstances Route (Arraigo)
    • Student Visa
    • Tourist and Visitor Visa
  • Housing
    • Concierge Services
    • Mortgages for Foreigners 
    • Real Estate
    • Long-term rentals
    • Short-term rentals
  • Countries
    • Canada
    • USA
    • United Kingdom
    • United Arab Emirates
    • European Union
    • Germany
    • Ukraine
  • Our Services
    • Relocation
      • Communities of Spain
        • Andalusia
        • Aragon
        • Asturias
        • Balearic Islands
        • Basque Country
        • Canary Islands
        • Cantabria
        • Castile and León
        • Castilla-La Mancha
        • Catalonia
        • Extremadura
        • Galicia
        • La Rioja
        • Madrid
        • Murcia
        • Navarre
        • Valencian
      • Official Government of Spain
      • Documents
      • Healthcare in Spain
      • Open Spanish Bank Account
      • Seguridad Social
    • Immigration
    • Modelos
    • NIE Number
    • Consular Services
    • Passport renewal
    • Translation Services
    • Notarization Services 
    • Digital Certificate
    • Empadronamiento
  • Calculators
    • Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Calculator
    • Schengen 90/180 Day Calculator
    • Spain Tax Residency Calculator
    • Spain Visa Eligibility Calculator
    • Beckham Law Tax Calculator
    • Digital Nomad Visa Income Calculator
    • Spain Residence Permit Renewal Window Calculator
    • Spanish Citizenship Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Long-Term Residence Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Residence Absence & Continuity Calculator
    • Foreign Driving Licence Validity & Exchange Calculator
    • Document Expiry & Renewal Planner
    • Digital Nomad Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Non-Lucrative Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Family Reunification Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Spain Wealth Tax Calculator 2026
  • Contact
  • Home
  • Spain Visas
    • Digital Nomad Visa
    • Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
    • Self-Employed Visa (Cuenta Propia)
    • Work Permit Visa
    • Family Reunification Visa
    • Highly Skilled Executives
    • Entrepreneur Visa
    • Exceptional Circumstances Route (Arraigo)
    • Student Visa
    • Tourist and Visitor Visa
  • Housing
    • Concierge Services
    • Mortgages for Foreigners 
    • Real Estate
    • Long-term rentals
    • Short-term rentals
  • Countries
    • Canada
    • USA
    • United Kingdom
    • United Arab Emirates
    • European Union
    • Germany
    • Ukraine
  • Our Services
    • Relocation
      • Communities of Spain
        • Andalusia
        • Aragon
        • Asturias
        • Balearic Islands
        • Basque Country
        • Canary Islands
        • Cantabria
        • Castile and León
        • Castilla-La Mancha
        • Catalonia
        • Extremadura
        • Galicia
        • La Rioja
        • Madrid
        • Murcia
        • Navarre
        • Valencian
      • Official Government of Spain
      • Documents
      • Healthcare in Spain
      • Open Spanish Bank Account
      • Seguridad Social
    • Immigration
    • Modelos
    • NIE Number
    • Consular Services
    • Passport renewal
    • Translation Services
    • Notarization Services 
    • Digital Certificate
    • Empadronamiento
  • Calculators
    • Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Calculator
    • Schengen 90/180 Day Calculator
    • Spain Tax Residency Calculator
    • Spain Visa Eligibility Calculator
    • Beckham Law Tax Calculator
    • Digital Nomad Visa Income Calculator
    • Spain Residence Permit Renewal Window Calculator
    • Spanish Citizenship Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Long-Term Residence Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Residence Absence & Continuity Calculator
    • Foreign Driving Licence Validity & Exchange Calculator
    • Document Expiry & Renewal Planner
    • Digital Nomad Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Non-Lucrative Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Family Reunification Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Spain Wealth Tax Calculator 2026
  • Contact
Close

Search

  • https://www.facebook.com/
  • https://twitter.com/
  • https://t.me/
  • https://www.instagram.com/
  • https://youtube.com/
Subscribe
Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain

Relocation Specialist

Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain

Relocation Specialist

  • Home
  • Spain Visas
    • Digital Nomad Visa
    • Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
    • Self-Employed Visa (Cuenta Propia)
    • Work Permit Visa
    • Family Reunification Visa
    • Highly Skilled Executives
    • Entrepreneur Visa
    • Exceptional Circumstances Route (Arraigo)
    • Student Visa
    • Tourist and Visitor Visa
  • Housing
    • Concierge Services
    • Mortgages for Foreigners 
    • Real Estate
    • Long-term rentals
    • Short-term rentals
  • Countries
    • Canada
    • USA
    • United Kingdom
    • United Arab Emirates
    • European Union
    • Germany
    • Ukraine
  • Our Services
    • Relocation
      • Communities of Spain
        • Andalusia
        • Aragon
        • Asturias
        • Balearic Islands
        • Basque Country
        • Canary Islands
        • Cantabria
        • Castile and León
        • Castilla-La Mancha
        • Catalonia
        • Extremadura
        • Galicia
        • La Rioja
        • Madrid
        • Murcia
        • Navarre
        • Valencian
      • Official Government of Spain
      • Documents
      • Healthcare in Spain
      • Open Spanish Bank Account
      • Seguridad Social
    • Immigration
    • Modelos
    • NIE Number
    • Consular Services
    • Passport renewal
    • Translation Services
    • Notarization Services 
    • Digital Certificate
    • Empadronamiento
  • Calculators
    • Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Calculator
    • Schengen 90/180 Day Calculator
    • Spain Tax Residency Calculator
    • Spain Visa Eligibility Calculator
    • Beckham Law Tax Calculator
    • Digital Nomad Visa Income Calculator
    • Spain Residence Permit Renewal Window Calculator
    • Spanish Citizenship Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Long-Term Residence Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Residence Absence & Continuity Calculator
    • Foreign Driving Licence Validity & Exchange Calculator
    • Document Expiry & Renewal Planner
    • Digital Nomad Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Non-Lucrative Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Family Reunification Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Spain Wealth Tax Calculator 2026
  • Contact
  • Home
  • Spain Visas
    • Digital Nomad Visa
    • Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
    • Self-Employed Visa (Cuenta Propia)
    • Work Permit Visa
    • Family Reunification Visa
    • Highly Skilled Executives
    • Entrepreneur Visa
    • Exceptional Circumstances Route (Arraigo)
    • Student Visa
    • Tourist and Visitor Visa
  • Housing
    • Concierge Services
    • Mortgages for Foreigners 
    • Real Estate
    • Long-term rentals
    • Short-term rentals
  • Countries
    • Canada
    • USA
    • United Kingdom
    • United Arab Emirates
    • European Union
    • Germany
    • Ukraine
  • Our Services
    • Relocation
      • Communities of Spain
        • Andalusia
        • Aragon
        • Asturias
        • Balearic Islands
        • Basque Country
        • Canary Islands
        • Cantabria
        • Castile and León
        • Castilla-La Mancha
        • Catalonia
        • Extremadura
        • Galicia
        • La Rioja
        • Madrid
        • Murcia
        • Navarre
        • Valencian
      • Official Government of Spain
      • Documents
      • Healthcare in Spain
      • Open Spanish Bank Account
      • Seguridad Social
    • Immigration
    • Modelos
    • NIE Number
    • Consular Services
    • Passport renewal
    • Translation Services
    • Notarization Services 
    • Digital Certificate
    • Empadronamiento
  • Calculators
    • Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Calculator
    • Schengen 90/180 Day Calculator
    • Spain Tax Residency Calculator
    • Spain Visa Eligibility Calculator
    • Beckham Law Tax Calculator
    • Digital Nomad Visa Income Calculator
    • Spain Residence Permit Renewal Window Calculator
    • Spanish Citizenship Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Long-Term Residence Eligibility & Timeline Calculator
    • Spain Residence Absence & Continuity Calculator
    • Foreign Driving Licence Validity & Exchange Calculator
    • Document Expiry & Renewal Planner
    • Digital Nomad Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Non-Lucrative Visa Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Family Reunification Document Checklist & Readiness Calculator
    • Spain Wealth Tax Calculator 2026
  • Contact
Close

Search

  • https://www.facebook.com/
  • https://twitter.com/
  • https://t.me/
  • https://www.instagram.com/
  • https://youtube.com/
Subscribe
Home/Germany

Germany

Moving from Germany to Spain in 2026: Residence, Tax, Healthcare and Essential Steps

German citizens can move to Spain without applying for a Spanish visa or work permit because Germany and Spain are both members of the European Union.

However, moving permanently from Germany to Spain involves much more than crossing an EU border.

If you intend to live in Spain for more than three months, you will normally need to register as an EU resident using Form EX-18. You should also coordinate your NIE, empadronamiento, healthcare, Social Security, German employment or pension arrangements, Spanish tax residence, banking and potentially the residence status of family members.

The most important principle is simple:

EU freedom of movement makes immigration easier, but it does not eliminate Spanish administrative, tax, healthcare and Social Security obligations.

For the general EU framework, see Moving to Spain as an EU Citizen.

Can German Citizens Move to Spain Without a Visa?

Yes.

A German citizen can enter Spain using a valid German passport or national identity card and does not need a Spanish residence visa.

German citizens can also work, establish a business, become self-employed, study or retire in Spain without obtaining the traditional immigration permits required from many non-EU nationals.

For stays of up to three months, EU residence registration is generally not required.

If Spain becomes your home for more than three months, however, you normally need to register as an EU resident.

Moving From Germany to Spain: Quick Answers

QuestionAnswer
Do German citizens need a visa?No
Do Germans need a Spanish work permit?No
Registration required after 3 months?Normally yes
Main residence formEX-18
Residence documentEU Registration Certificate
Does it contain an NIE?Yes
Do Germans normally receive a TIE?No
Can Germans work in Spain?Yes
Can Germans become autónomos?Yes
Can a non-EU spouse obtain residence?Potentially, usually through EX-19
Is German EHIC enough permanently?Generally no
Can a German driving licence be used?Generally yes while valid
Permanent EU residenceNormally after 5 years

German Citizenship vs German Residence Permit

This distinction is extremely important.

Someone living in Germany is not necessarily a German citizen.

A person holding a German residence permit but a non-EU passport does not automatically acquire German or EU free-movement rights.

For example:

German citizen → EU free-movement rules

but:

Indian citizen with German residence permit → not automatically an EU citizen

A German residence card can permit residence in Germany and facilitate short travel within the Schengen Area, but it does not normally provide an unrestricted right to establish residence in Spain.

A non-EU national moving from Germany may instead need:

  • a Spanish residence authorization;
  • a Spanish national visa;
  • an EU-family residence card;
  • another qualifying Spanish immigration route.

Always distinguish where you currently live from which citizenship you hold.

What German Citizens Need After Three Months in Spain

A German citizen intending to live in Spain for more than three months normally registers in the Registro Central de Extranjeros.

The application uses:

Form EX-18

Successful applicants receive the:

Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión

commonly called:

  • EU Registration Certificate;
  • green certificate;
  • certificado verde;
  • Green NIE.

For the complete procedure, read EX-18 Spain: EU Citizen Registration.

EX-18 Is Not a Spanish Visa

This distinction matters.

A German citizen already has EU free-movement rights.

EX-18 is therefore not equivalent to a Digital Nomad Visa, Non-Lucrative Visa or ordinary Spanish work permit.

Instead, it formally registers the EU citizen’s residence in Spain.

The applicant normally needs to demonstrate that they fall within an appropriate category such as:

  • employee;
  • self-employed worker;
  • student;
  • pensioner;
  • financially self-sufficient person;
  • qualifying family member.

NIE vs EU Residence Certificate

German newcomers frequently confuse these two concepts.

NIE

The Número de Identificación de Extranjero is your Spanish foreigner identification number.

It can be used for:

  • employment;
  • taxes;
  • Social Security;
  • banking;
  • property;
  • vehicles;
  • contracts;
  • business;
  • inheritance;
  • other Spanish administrative procedures.

Having an NIE does not by itself mean that you are registered as a Spanish resident.

Read NIE Number in Spain for the full distinction.

EU Registration Certificate

The EU Registration Certificate documents your registration as an EU resident in Spain.

The certificate includes your NIE.

Therefore:

NIE = identification number

EX-18 = EU residence registration

Do German Citizens Receive a TIE?

Normally, no.

German citizens generally receive the EU Registration Certificate rather than the plastic TIE issued to many non-EU foreign residents.

This becomes particularly important in international families:

German citizen → EX-18

Qualifying non-EU spouse or family member → usually EX-19

What Should You Do Before Leaving Germany?

A successful Germany-to-Spain move should begin before you arrive in Spain.

Important issues include:

  • German deregistration;
  • German health insurance;
  • pension arrangements;
  • German employment;
  • unemployment benefits;
  • German tax exposure;
  • German companies and investments;
  • banking;
  • vehicle registration;
  • important digital accounts.

Closing everything in Germany immediately is not necessarily a good idea.

Restructuring the right things is more important.

Abmeldung When Moving From Germany to Spain

If you permanently leave your German residence and do not establish another residence in Germany, you will generally need to complete an Abmeldung with the competent German registration authority.

Keep the resulting:

Abmeldebescheinigung

It can be useful when dealing with:

  • German health insurance;
  • German tax administration;
  • banks;
  • pension institutions;
  • broadcasting contributions;
  • vehicle authorities;
  • utility providers;
  • evidence of relocation.

Do not maintain a fictitious German residence simply for administrative convenience.

Whether you continue to have an actual home available in Germany can also have tax consequences.

Keep German Digital Access Active

Do not close every German account on the day you leave.

You may continue receiving important communications after relocating.

Consider maintaining access to:

  • German online banking;
  • ELSTER;
  • your Krankenkasse portal;
  • pension records;
  • BundID or other government access;
  • German mobile authentication;
  • important email accounts;
  • two-factor authentication applications.

Changing a German telephone number too early can make access to banks and government systems unnecessarily difficult.

Speak to Your Krankenkasse Before Moving

German statutory or private healthcare arrangements should be reviewed before Spain becomes your normal place of residence.

Tell the relevant institution whether you will be:

  • employed in Spain;
  • self-employed in Spain;
  • working remotely for a German employer;
  • temporarily posted;
  • working in Germany and Spain;
  • receiving a German pension;
  • living in Spain without employment.

The correct healthcare route depends heavily on this distinction.

Do not assume that simply keeping your German health-insurance card provides the correct permanent healthcare arrangement in Spain.

Healthcare for Germans Working in Spain

A German citizen employed by a Spanish employer will normally enter the Spanish Social Security system through employment.

Once Spanish healthcare entitlement is established, the worker can usually register with the health service of the autonomous community where they live.

Regional systems differ.

For example:

  • Valencia uses SIP terminology;
  • Catalonia uses CatSalut;
  • other regions use their own health-card systems.

Read Healthcare in Spain for Newcomers for the broader Spanish system.

German Pensioners and the S1

A German pensioner moving permanently to Spain may, depending on the person’s pension and insurance circumstances, qualify for healthcare through an S1 certificate.

A typical process is:

German healthcare institution → S1 → Spanish Social Security registration → regional healthcare service → Spanish health card

This can allow a qualifying pensioner to receive healthcare in Spain while the competent German institution remains financially responsible.

Do not assume every pensioner automatically qualifies for the same S1 arrangement. Pension history and healthcare responsibility matter.

Is the German EHIC Enough After Moving to Spain?

Generally, the European Health Insurance Card should be understood primarily as a mechanism for medically necessary healthcare during temporary stays.

It is not normally the long-term healthcare solution for somebody who has genuinely moved their normal residence from Germany to Spain.

A permanent resident should establish the appropriate healthcare route through:

  • Spanish Social Security;
  • S1;
  • qualifying family coverage;
  • private healthcare;
  • another applicable entitlement.

Moving From Germany to Spain While Working for a German Employer

This is one of the most important sections for modern relocations.

A German employee cannot assume that EU freedom of movement means:

German contract + German payroll + permanent work from Spain = no changes required.

Your immigration right to live in Spain and your employer’s tax, payroll and Social Security responsibilities are separate questions.

Working permanently from your Spanish home can affect:

  • Social Security;
  • payroll;
  • income-tax withholding;
  • employment law;
  • workplace insurance;
  • employer registration;
  • corporate tax exposure;
  • permanent-establishment risk.

The arrangement should be reviewed before regular remote work from Spain begins.

German Remote Workers and Social Security

EU Social Security rules generally attempt to place a person under one Member State’s Social Security legislation at a time.

The outcome depends on the actual working pattern.

Issues can include:

  • where you normally work;
  • where you reside;
  • how much work is performed in Spain;
  • whether you work in several countries;
  • temporary posting;
  • A1 coverage;
  • qualifying cross-border telework arrangements.

A 25% threshold can become important in ordinary multi-state activity rules.

There are also specific cross-border telework arrangements that can produce a different result in qualifying cases.

Do not simply calculate the number yourself and decide where contributions belong.

The employer and the relevant Social Security authorities should establish the applicable regime.

For the Spanish side, see How to Get a Social Security Number in Spain.

A1 Certificate for German Employees in Spain

An A1 certificate can prove which country’s Social Security legislation applies in qualifying cross-border situations.

It can be particularly relevant to:

  • temporary postings;
  • employees working in several EU countries;
  • certain cross-border working arrangements.

An A1 is not a general permission to permanently live in Spain while ignoring Spanish Social Security indefinitely.

The underlying working situation must qualify.

Working for a Spanish Employer

German citizens do not need an immigration work permit to accept employment in Spain.

However, the Spanish employer must still complete the normal employment formalities.

These can include:

  • Spanish employment registration;
  • Social Security;
  • payroll;
  • income-tax withholding;
  • occupational-risk obligations.

The fact that you are an EU citizen removes an immigration barrier.

It does not remove Spanish employment administration.

Becoming Autónomo in Spain

A German citizen can become self-employed in Spain without obtaining the non-EU Self-Employed Visa.

However, a German Gewerbeanmeldung or German tax number does not automatically replace Spanish registrations once the activity is genuinely carried out from Spain.

A Spanish autónomo may need to coordinate:

  • Tax Agency registration;
  • activity classification;
  • RETA;
  • Social Security;
  • IVA;
  • IRPF;
  • invoices;
  • quarterly returns;
  • annual returns;
  • digital government notifications.

The correct structure becomes particularly important when the German freelancer continues to serve customers in Germany.

Keeping a German Company After Moving to Spain

Owning a German GmbH or another German company does not prevent you from moving to Spain.

But managing the company from Spain can create important tax questions.

The analysis may involve:

  • your salary;
  • dividends;
  • corporate management;
  • company residence;
  • permanent establishment;
  • Spanish payroll;
  • director remuneration;
  • Social Security;
  • VAT;
  • German taxation;
  • Spanish taxation.

A company being incorporated in Germany does not automatically mean that every activity remains exclusively German for tax purposes.

Owners, founders and substantial shareholders should review this before moving.

German Exit Tax

German exit-tax rules can be relevant to certain people who leave Germany, particularly individuals holding qualifying substantial shareholdings.

This area deserves special attention for:

  • startup founders;
  • GmbH shareholders;
  • company owners;
  • entrepreneurs expecting a future business sale;
  • people with substantial unrealized company gains.

Do not wait until after becoming Spanish resident to investigate exit-tax exposure.

Cross-border planning should ideally happen before the move.

Looking for Work in Spain

A German citizen can move to Spain to look for work and does not need a Spanish immigration work permit before accepting qualifying employment.

Someone receiving German unemployment benefits may also be able to temporarily export those benefits while looking for work in Spain under EU coordination rules.

The relevant portable document is commonly:

PD U2

This should normally be arranged with the German employment authorities before departure.

Do not assume that simply moving to Spain automatically transfers German unemployment payments.

Empadronamiento After Moving From Germany

Once you have established a genuine Spanish home, complete your municipal registration.

This is known as:

empadronamiento

or registration on the padrón municipal.

You register with your Ayuntamiento.

The padrón can be relevant for:

  • EU residence procedures;
  • healthcare;
  • schools;
  • municipal services;
  • vehicle administration;
  • proving your local address.

Requirements vary by municipality.

Read Empadronamiento in Spain before choosing your accommodation.

Make Sure Your Rental Allows Padrón Registration

This is worth checking before signing the lease.

Short-term, holiday and informal rental arrangements can create problems when a newcomer later needs reliable documentation showing their Spanish home.

Ask before paying a deposit whether the property can be used as your real habitual residence and whether you will have the documents necessary for empadronamiento.

Our Long-Term Rentals in Spain article explains the Spanish rental system in detail.

EX-18 Requirements for German Employees

A German employee registering residence can generally demonstrate the qualifying worker status through documentation connected with Spanish employment.

Evidence can include:

  • employment contract;
  • employer documentation;
  • Social Security registration;
  • employment-registration records.

The exact file depends on the circumstances.

EX-18 for German Autónomos

A German self-employed person can normally support EX-18 registration with documentation showing genuine Spanish self-employment.

Relevant evidence can include:

  • Tax Agency registration;
  • Social Security registration;
  • RETA;
  • professional activity;
  • licences where applicable.

EX-18 for German Pensioners

German retirees do not need a Spanish employment contract merely to register as EU residents.

An economically inactive applicant normally establishes:

  • sufficient financial resources; and
  • qualifying healthcare coverage.

There is no single universal EX-18 bank-balance figure equivalent to the financial formula used by Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa.

The EU residence assessment considers the applicant’s circumstances.

EX-18 for Financially Independent Germans

A German citizen can move to Spain using savings, investment income or other financial resources.

The person still needs to demonstrate that the applicable EU residence conditions are met.

Possible evidence may include:

  • pensions;
  • savings;
  • investments;
  • recurring income;
  • other accessible financial resources.

Appropriate healthcare coverage will normally also be important for economically inactive residents.

Non-EU Spouse of a German Citizen

A qualifying non-EU spouse or other qualifying family member accompanying or joining a German citizen can potentially obtain residence under the EU-family framework.

The German citizen normally establishes their own residence under EX-18.

The qualifying non-EU family member normally uses:

EX-19

Read EX-19 Spain: EU Family Residence Card for eligibility and documentation.

The basic distinction is:

German citizen → EX-18

Qualifying non-EU spouse → EX-19

Spanish Tax Residence After Moving From Germany

EU immigration rights do not determine your entire tax position.

The best-known Spanish tax-residence rule is the 183-day test.

A person spending more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year can generally become Spanish tax resident.

However, this is not the only test.

Spain can also examine where the person’s main centre or base of economic activities or interests is located, and family circumstances can also be relevant under Spanish tax-residence rules.

Do not assume:

under 183 days = automatically not Spanish tax resident

in every possible situation.

Spanish Tax Residents and Worldwide Income

A Spanish tax resident is generally taxed in Spain on worldwide income, subject to Spanish law and applicable treaty provisions.

For a German newcomer, that can include:

  • salary;
  • pensions;
  • German rental income;
  • dividends;
  • interest;
  • investment gains;
  • freelance income;
  • company income;
  • cryptocurrency gains.

Keeping the money in a German account does not by itself remove Spanish tax-reporting obligations.

Germany–Spain Double Taxation

Germany and Spain have a double-taxation framework that helps determine taxing rights and provides mechanisms for avoiding double taxation.

But a double-tax treaty does not mean:

income taxed in Germany never needs to be declared in Spain.

The correct treatment depends on the type of income.

This becomes especially important for:

  • German pensions;
  • rental property;
  • company income;
  • directors;
  • investments;
  • cross-border employment.

German Pensions in Spain

German pension income should not all be treated identically.

The tax position can depend on factors including:

  • pension type;
  • source;
  • public versus private character;
  • applicable treaty provisions;
  • Spanish tax residence.

A German pensioner moving to Spain should therefore separate the healthcare/S1 analysis from the taxation of the pension.

They are different questions.

Modelo 720 and German Assets

Spanish tax residents holding significant assets outside Spain may need to investigate Spain’s foreign-asset reporting rules.

German assets that can become relevant include:

  • bank accounts;
  • investments;
  • securities;
  • certain insurance products;
  • German real estate.

Do not assume German banks automatically handle Spanish reporting obligations for you.

German Driving Licence in Spain

A valid German driving licence is an EU licence and generally remains valid in Spain while it remains in force.

Exchanging it for a Spanish licence is normally voluntary.

However, a special rule applies when an EU licence:

  • has no expiry date;
  • has validity exceeding 15 years for relevant ordinary car/motorcycle categories; or
  • exceeds the relevant long-validity period for certain heavier categories.

In those cases, Spanish renewal rules can become mandatory after two years of normal residence in Spain.

When an ordinary German licence expires after you have established normal residence in Spain, renewal is generally handled in Spain.

Bringing a German Car to Spain

Driving your German-registered car into Spain is straightforward.

Keeping it permanently after establishing Spanish residence is a separate matter.

You may need to deal with:

  • Spanish vehicle registration;
  • ITV;
  • Certificate of Conformity;
  • registration tax where applicable;
  • municipal road tax;
  • DGT procedures;
  • Spanish plates;
  • Spanish insurance.

A relatively new EU-specification vehicle with complete documentation may be worth bringing.

For an old diesel or low-value vehicle, selling in Germany and buying in Spain may sometimes make more financial sense.

Calculate before moving the car.

Opening a Spanish Bank Account

German SEPA accounts work for many European transfers and direct debits, but a Spanish account can still make everyday administration easier.

It may help with:

  • salary;
  • rent;
  • taxes;
  • utilities;
  • insurance;
  • Social Security;
  • mortgages;
  • Bizum.

Banks may request:

  • German ID or passport;
  • NIE;
  • Spanish address;
  • employment or pension documentation;
  • tax-residence declarations;
  • proof of source of funds.

Read How to Open a Bank Account in Spain as a Foreigner.

Get a Spanish Digital Certificate

Once your Spanish administrative identity is established, obtaining a digital certificate can save considerable time.

It can be used for many procedures involving:

  • Tax Agency;
  • Social Security;
  • government certificates;
  • administrative notifications;
  • municipal authorities;
  • traffic administration.

See Digital Certificate in Spain.

Best Places in Spain for Germans

There is no single best place.

The right choice depends on whether you prioritize employment, climate, schools, airports, property prices, healthcare or international communities.

Madrid

Madrid can suit German professionals working in:

  • finance;
  • consulting;
  • technology;
  • engineering;
  • corporate services;
  • international business.

It also offers extensive transport connections to Germany and the rest of Europe.

See Living in Madrid.

Barcelona and Catalonia

Barcelona attracts professionals, founders, students and international companies.

German residents should also consider Catalonia’s regional language environment when choosing schools and handling some local administration.

Explore Moving to Catalonia.

Valencia and Alicante

Valencia and the Costa Blanca can suit:

  • retirees;
  • families;
  • remote professionals;
  • entrepreneurs;
  • people wanting Mediterranean living.

Alicante, Benidorm, Jávea, Dénia and the surrounding areas have substantial international communities and good connections to northern Europe.

Explore Relocating to Valencia.

Málaga and Costa del Sol

Málaga has developed into an increasingly international business and technology destination while also offering coastal living.

Marbella, Estepona, Fuengirola and surrounding areas are popular with international families and retirees.

Explore Relocating to Andalusia.

Northern Spain

Germans who dislike extreme Mediterranean summer heat should also consider:

  • Asturias;
  • Galicia;
  • Cantabria;
  • Basque Country.

The climate is greener and cooler, although it differs significantly from the image of Spain many newcomers have from Mediterranean holidays.

Should You Rent Before Buying?

For many newcomers, yes.

Living in an area for six or twelve months can reveal things that are difficult to identify during a short viewing trip:

  • winter humidity;
  • summer heat;
  • noise;
  • insulation;
  • parking;
  • transport;
  • local healthcare;
  • school commute;
  • internet;
  • seasonal tourism.

Buying property does not give a German citizen additional EU residence rights.

Choose the area because it suits your life, not because you think property ownership replaces registration.

Moving From Germany With Children

Families should investigate schools before choosing housing.

Important questions include:

  • catchment areas;
  • public versus concertado versus private education;
  • international schools;
  • teaching language;
  • German-language education;
  • school transport;
  • enrolment deadlines;
  • special educational support.

Documents worth bringing can include:

  • school reports;
  • birth certificates;
  • vaccination records;
  • custody documentation;
  • medical records.

In bilingual regions such as Catalonia, Valencia, Galicia and the Basque Country, regional languages may also form part of public education.

Practical Germany-to-Spain Relocation Timeline

Before Leaving Germany

Prepare:

  • income and employment structure;
  • German tax review;
  • healthcare and Krankenkasse position;
  • Abmeldung;
  • pensions;
  • civil documents;
  • family paperwork;
  • vehicle decision;
  • housing strategy;
  • German digital access.

After Establishing Your Spanish Home

Organize:

  • empadronamiento;
  • employment or autónomo registration;
  • healthcare;
  • Social Security where applicable;
  • Spanish banking;
  • EX-18 documentation.

Before Three Months Have Passed

Normally complete:

  • EU residence registration;
  • EX-18;
  • EU Registration Certificate;
  • NIE confirmation;
  • appropriate family residence procedures.

During Your First Spanish Tax Year

Review:

  • days spent in Germany and Spain;
  • Spanish tax residence;
  • German income;
  • German property;
  • German investments;
  • pensions;
  • foreign assets;
  • business ownership;
  • continued German tax obligations.

Permanent Residence for German Citizens

German citizens who have legally and continuously resided in Spain for the required period can generally acquire a permanent EU residence right after:

five years

subject to the applicable continuity and residence conditions.

Permanent residence strengthens the person’s position because the right is no longer dependent in the same way on continuing to demonstrate employment, student status or sufficient resources.

Permanent residence should not be confused with Spanish citizenship.

Can German Citizens Get Spanish Citizenship?

Yes, qualifying German citizens can eventually apply for Spanish nationality.

For German nationals, the standard citizenship-by-residence period is generally:

10 years of qualifying legal residence

unless an individual reduced residence period applies.

For example, circumstances involving marriage to a Spanish citizen can potentially reduce the residence period.

Read Spanish Citizenship by Residence for the different residence periods.

EU permanent residence after five years does not mean automatic Spanish citizenship after five years.

Common Mistakes Germans Make When Moving to Spain

Thinking EU Citizenship Means No Paperwork

No visa is required, but residence registration and many other administrative steps remain.

Thinking an NIE Equals Spanish Residence

It does not.

Keeping German Employment Without Reviewing Social Security

Permanent remote work from Spain can change the employment structure substantially.

Assuming German Health Insurance Automatically Continues Unchanged

Healthcare responsibility needs to be established correctly.

Using EHIC as Permanent Healthcare

EHIC is principally designed for temporary stays.

Assuming Abmeldung Ends Every German Tax Obligation

German-source income, property, pensions and businesses can continue creating German tax consequences.

Ignoring German Exit Tax

Company owners and qualifying shareholders should investigate this before leaving.

Managing a German Company Entirely From Spain Without Tax Planning

Foreign incorporation does not prevent Spanish tax questions.

Assuming a German Driving Licence Never Needs Spanish Renewal

Special rules apply to indefinite or unusually long-validity EU licences.

Buying Property Immediately

A holiday destination can feel very different when it becomes your year-round home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving From Germany to Spain

Can a German citizen move permanently to Spain?

Yes. German citizens benefit from EU free-movement rights but normally need to register residence when staying longer than three months.

Does a German citizen need a Spanish visa?

No.

Does a German citizen need a work permit?

No. German citizens can work in Spain under EU free-movement rules, subject to normal Spanish employment and professional requirements.

Which form does a German citizen use for residence?

Normally EX-18.

What is the Green NIE?

It is an informal name commonly used for the EU Registration Certificate containing the person’s NIE.

Do German citizens get a TIE?

Normally no. EU citizens generally receive the EU Registration Certificate.

Can I live in Spain and continue working for my German employer?

Potentially, yes, but employment, payroll, Social Security and tax consequences must be reviewed. EU freedom of movement does not eliminate those obligations.

Can I stay in German Social Security?

Potentially in qualifying circumstances, including certain posting, multi-state or cross-border telework arrangements. It should be formally established rather than assumed.

Do I need Abmeldung before moving?

If you leave your German residence and do not take another residence in Germany, German deregistration is generally required.

Can German pensioners use Spanish healthcare?

Potentially. Qualifying German pensioners may be able to register healthcare in Spain through an S1.

Is EHIC enough for permanent residence?

Generally it should not be treated as the permanent healthcare solution for somebody who has transferred normal residence to Spain.

Can I use my German driving licence?

Generally yes while it remains valid, subject to Spanish renewal rules.

Can my non-EU spouse move with me?

Potentially, yes. A qualifying non-EU family member can normally investigate the EU-family residence route using EX-19.

When can I obtain permanent residence?

Normally after five years of qualifying legal and continuous residence.

When can a German citizen apply for Spanish citizenship?

The standard nationality-by-residence period for a German citizen is generally 10 years unless a reduced statutory period applies.

How Newcomer.es Can Help With a Move From Germany to Spain

Moving from Germany to Spain is legally simpler than moving from outside the EU, but the administrative transition still involves several systems.

Newcomer.es can help coordinate practical relocation matters including:

  • EX-18 residence registration;
  • NIE;
  • empadronamiento;
  • Social Security;
  • healthcare setup;
  • S1-related Spanish administration;
  • non-EU family residence;
  • Spanish banking;
  • housing;
  • digital certificates;
  • post-arrival registration.

See Relocation Services in Spain for assistance with the complete move.

The most effective Germany-to-Spain relocation sequence is:

Plan German departure → determine employment and healthcare structure → establish Spanish address → padrón → EX-18 and NIE → Social Security and healthcare → banking and digital administration → Spanish tax compliance → permanent residence planning

German citizenship makes the immigration side considerably easier.

The real challenge is making sure that your German employment, healthcare, tax and financial life connect correctly with your new Spanish residence.

Newcomer Centre

Contact us for a free consultation

WhatsApp Spain: +34 645 264 936

WhatsApp USA & Canada: +1 416 580 2702

  • Business
  • Cities
  • Cost of Living
  • Education
  • Employment
  • Government offices
  • Healthcare
  • Immigration
  • Insurance
  • Modelos
  • Retire in Spain
  • Sport
  • Tourism

Moving to Spain Guides

  • Requerimiento de Extranjería: What It Means and How to Respond
  • How to Check a Spain Immigration Application Status Online in 2026
  • EU Blue Card Spain 2026: Requirements, Salary Threshold and Application Process
  • Sports for Children in Spain: Clubs, Costs & How to Join
  • How to Play Padel in Spain: Beginner’s Guide for Expats
  • Sports in Spain for Expats and Newcomers: Complete Guide
  • Just Arrived in Spain? Your First 30 Days, Step by Step
  • Spanish Citizenship Application 2026: Requirements, Documents, Exams and Process
  • Spanish Citizenship by Residence in 2026: 10, 5, 2 & 1-Year Rules
  • Family Reunification in Spain 2026: How to Bring Your Spouse, Children or Parents
  • Health Insurance for Spain Visas in 2026: Requirements, Coverage and Common Mistakes
  • EX-00 Form in Spain: Application for Stay Authorization and Extensions
  • EX-01 Form Spain: Non-Lucrative Residence, Requirements and Renewal
  • EX-02 Form Spain: Family Reunification, Requirements and Application Process
  • EX-03 Form Spain: Employee Residence and Work Permit
  • EX-04 Form Spain: Residence Permit for Internships
  • EX-06 Form Spain: Seasonal Residence and Work Authorization
  • EX-07 Form Spain: Self-Employed Residence and Work Permit
  • EX-09 Form Spain: Residence With Work Authorization Exemption
  • EX-10 Form Spain: Arraigo and Residence for Exceptional Circumstances

Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain

Discover clear, step-by-step guides on visas, NIE logistics, banking, housing, and healthcare, alongside a welcoming community to help you successfully integrate into your new Spanish life.

Copyright 2026 — Newcomer and Expat Services in Spain. All rights reserved.