There has been a significant rise in the interest among Cuban Americans and other Latinos residing in Miami to relocate to Spain, seeing the European nation as an opportunity to enhance their quality of life and improve their financial situation. This trend is part of a broader movement of Americans—particularly professionals with remote work capabilities—seeking residency in Spain to take advantage of perks like the so-called Beckham Law and digital nomad visas.
According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), by mid-2024, there were 69,171 American citizens registered in Spain, marking a 49% increase from 2018. Federico González, the founder of GS Legal Consulting, shared with El Español that "the demand for residency permits has surged, especially for digital nomad visas, which are increasingly drawing interest from those looking to blend remote work with a higher quality of life."
For many Cuban Americans and Latinos based in Miami, Spain offers an appealing destination not only due to shared language and cultural ties but also because of the tax benefits under the expatriate regime. This policy, popularly referred to as the Beckham Law, allows newcomers to pay taxes only on income earned within Spain for six years, exempting foreign income from taxation.
As reported by El Confidencial, legal firms in Madrid and Barcelona have witnessed a "flood of inquiries" from the United States, notably from Florida, which has a high concentration of Cuban Americans. These inquiries are not just from highly skilled workers but also from digital entrepreneurs, influencers, freelancers, and families seeking economic stability and quality public services.
The motivations for this migration extend beyond tax considerations. Many cite the high cost of living in Miami, escalating housing prices, unequal access to healthcare and education, and a perception of an increasingly tense political and social climate in the United States. While Spain faces its own challenges, for this growing group of Latino migrants, it represents a viable alternative with access to a more peaceful, secure, and economically stable life.
The ease of cultural integration, the public healthcare system, and the possibility of obtaining Spanish citizenship after two years of legal residency are additional incentives. This emerging migration flow highlights a growing trend: the pursuit of a better quality of life beyond the so-called "American dream."
FAQs on Moving to Spain from Miami
What is the Beckham Law?
The Beckham Law is a tax policy in Spain that allows newcomers to pay taxes only on income earned within the country for the first six years, exempting foreign income from taxation.
Why are Miami residents interested in moving to Spain?
Many Miami residents, including Cuban Americans and other Latinos, are interested in moving to Spain due to the shared language and culture, tax benefits, and the desire for a better quality of life, including access to safer and more stable environments.
What is a digital nomad visa?
A digital nomad visa is a type of residency permit that allows remote workers to live in Spain while working online for companies outside the country, offering them the chance to enjoy the benefits of living in Spain.