Spanish emigration has risen noticeably in recent years. According to the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE, the Spanish national statistics office), on 1 January 2024 a total of 2,908,649 Spaniards were living abroad, an increase of 4.2% on the previous year. The main destinations chosen by Spaniards are Argentina, France, the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany.

This trend has several drivers: the search for better job opportunities, the wish to gain new cultural experience or the intention to sharpen language skills. Settling in another country, however, involves a series of formalities and requirements that you need to know and meet to make the move a success.

Below we look at each of these countries, with information on their general characteristics, demographic data, average earnings, the jobs most common among Spanish emigrants, the cost of living and visa requirements.

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1. Argentina

General characteristics and demographic data

Argentina, at the southern tip of South America, is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world. With a population of roughly 45 million, its capital, Buenos Aires, is a vibrant, multicultural city. On 1 January 2024, 482,176 Spaniards were living in Argentina, making it the country with the largest number of Spaniards abroad (source: INE)).

Average earnings

Average pay in Argentina varies considerably by region and sector. According to figures from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos (INDEC, the Argentinian statistics and census institute), average monthly income is around 50,000 Argentine pesos, although this figure can fluctuate because of inflation.

Common jobs among Spaniards

Spaniards in Argentina tend to work in education, hospitality, retail and technology. Many Spanish entrepreneurs have set up businesses in areas such as food and tourism.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Argentina is generally lower than in Spain, although inflation can erode purchasing power. Buenos Aires is the most expensive city in the country, but even so, housing, food and transport are usually more affordable than in European cities.

Visa requirements

Spanish citizens can enter Argentina without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. For longer stays or for work, you need to obtain temporary or permanent residence. Although the official language is Spanish, it is important to make sure that any official documentation is correctly translated and legalised in line with Argentinian rules, should you hold a document drawn up in a language other than Spanish.

2. France

General characteristics and demographic data

France, in Western Europe, is known for its rich history, culture and cuisine. With a population of around 67 million, its capital, Paris, is a global centre for art and fashion. At the start of 2024, 310,072 Spaniards were living in France (source: INE)).

Average earnings

Average pay in France is approximately 2,250 euros net a month, although this figure varies by region and sector.

Common jobs among Spaniards

Spaniards in France tend to work in construction, hospitality, education and healthcare. There is also a presence in engineering and scientific research.

Cost of living

The cost of living in France is high, especially in cities such as Paris. Renting a one-bedroom flat in central Paris can cost more than 1,200 euros a month.

Visa requirements

As members of the European Union, Spanish citizens do not need a visa to live and work in France. It is advisable, however, to register with the local authorities. Official documents should be translated into French by a sworn translator. If you need a sworn translation for your French paperwork, read our blog post to find out how to start the process of requesting official translations.

3. United States

General characteristics and demographic data

The United States, in North America, has a population of more than 331 million. On 1 January 2024, 206,278 Spaniards were living in the United States (source: INE)).

Average earnings

Average income in the US is approximately 3,700 dollars a month, varying by state and profession.

Common jobs among Spaniards

Spaniards in the US work in education, research, technology and hospitality. There is also a presence in medicine and finance.

Cost of living

Cities such as New York and San Francisco are expensive, with high rents, while other parts of the country can be more affordable.

Visa requirements

A visa is required to live and work in the US. Official documents must be translated into English. Do you urgently need official documents translated?, get in touch and we will help you translate all the paperwork you need.

4. United Kingdom

General characteristics and demographic data

The United Kingdom has a population of approximately 67 million. At the start of 2024, around 185,000 Spaniards were recorded as living in the UK (source: INE)).

Average earnings

Average pay is approximately 2,500 pounds a month.

Common jobs among Spaniards

Spaniards work in hospitality, healthcare, technology, education and construction.

Cost of living

London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, with rents of 1,500 to 2,500 pounds a month.

Visa requirements

Since Brexit, Spaniards need a visa to work in the UK. Official documents must be translated into English. Do you know which documents most commonly need a sworn translation? Read our blog post to find out more.

5. Germany

General characteristics and demographic data

Germany has more than 83 million inhabitants. Around 170,000 Spaniards live in Germany (source: INE)).

Average earnings

Average pay is 2,700 euros net a month.

Common jobs among Spaniards

Spaniards work in engineering, healthcare, manufacturing, R&D and hospitality.

Cost of living

Cities such as Berlin are affordable, while Munich and Hamburg have high rents.

Visa requirements

Spaniards do not need a visa, but they must register in Germany. Translating documents into German is advisable. Although it is not compulsory, if you are interested in translating any of your documents, such as employment or tenancy contracts or even your CV, you can get in touch with our translation agency to request a quote and advice.

Why languages and translation matter when you emigrate

Moving to another country is a great opportunity, but it also brings administrative and practical challenges. It is essential to research the legal requirements, the cost of living and the job opportunities carefully before making a decision. Having correctly translated documents and speaking the language of your destination makes integration far easier and lets you feel at home much sooner.

At Alos Idiomas, we offer sworn translation and language training services to help you overcome these barriers and start your new life with confidence. Correctly translated documents and a good command of the local language are key to integration.