Portugal vs Spain – Best Residency Visa for US Citizens in 2025

Introdução

Two of the most popular European destinations for Americans seeking long-term relocation are Portugal and Spain. Both offer residency visas that don’t require a local job: Portugal’s D7 Visa and Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa.

If you’re a retiree, remote worker with savings, or have passive income, this article compares both options side-by-side to help you choose the right country and visa in 2025.

Overview of Each Visa

🇵🇹 Portugal D7 Visa

The D7 Visa is designed for individuals with passive income or regular earnings (from remote work, pensions, or rentals).

🇪🇸 Spain Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)

This visa allows residency based on financial self-sufficiency. You cannot legally work on this visa, including remote work for US clients.

Requisitos de elegibilidade

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Income Thresholds (2025)

Documentos necessários

Common to Both:

• Valid passport (6+ months)
  
• Criminal background check (FBI) with apostille
  
• Proof of income (bank statements, pension docs, rental agreements)
  
• Private health insurance (min. 1 year coverage)
  
• Passport-sized photos
  
• Visa application form
  

Portugal D7 Specific:

• Portuguese NIF (tax ID number)
  
• Portuguese bank account
  
• Long-term accommodation lease or property ownership
  

Spain NLV Specific:

• Medical certificate
  
• Proof of NOT working remotely or professionally
  
• No tax debt with Spanish authorities (if applying from within Spain)
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Onde se candidatar

Processing Times & Fees

Both countries require an in-person appointment at the consulate, with consular jurisdictions determining where you apply.

Benefits Comparison

Lifestyle Differences

• Portugal is known for its expat-friendly cities like Lisbon and Porto, milder climate, lower cost of living, and English proficiency.
  
  
• Spain offers vibrant cities (Barcelona, Valencia), rich cultural life, and a Mediterranean lifestyle—but remote workers must tread carefully with the NLV.
  
  

Which Is Best for You?

• Choose Portugal if: You want to work remotely, have lower income, or prefer an easier application process.
  
  
• Choose Spain if: You have higher passive income and prefer a more structured, traditional process (or plan not to work).
  
  

Conclusão

Both Portugal and Spain are excellent choices for US citizens seeking long-term residency in Europe. The right choice depends on your income source, remote work status, and lifestyle preference.

At Jobbatical, we’ve helped hundreds of Americans navigate D7 and Non-Lucrative Visa processes successfully, with step-by-step support from the US to Europe.

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