The visa itself is cheap. The total is higher, because the real costs sit around it: apostilles, certified translations, health insurance, Social Security and legal help. This guide gives the figures we could verify on 12 October 2026. An independent Spanish immigration lawyer confirms the amounts for your case.
Last verified: October 12, 2026
Government fees for one applicant add up to a few hundred dollars. Translations, apostilles, a background check and insurance typically take the paperwork side into the low thousands. Your lawyer's fee is USD 6,000 in total for the full process, invoiced by your lawyer directly. The total depends on whether you travel alone or with family and how many documents your case needs.
Two fees go to the Spanish authorities: the consular visa fee, which the Washington and Chicago consulates publish as USD 190 for US citizens, and a residence authorisation fee of about EUR 73 per person under the official FAQ. Both are charged per person and change from time to time.
Most applicants underestimate this part. Foreign documents need apostilles and certified translations, each with its own provider fee. Your lawyer tells you which documents your case needs, so you only pay for what is required.
Insurance premiums depend on your age, health and the insurer. Employees covered under the US-Spain social security agreement mostly face paperwork, while self-employed professionals pay monthly contributions in Spain.
Your lawyer's fee is USD 6,000 in total for the full process. Your lawyer sets it, confirms in writing before you engage what it covers, and invoices you directly.
Budget for the foreign resident card, local registration and renewals. The residence authorisation can be granted for up to three years and renewed for two-year periods, and each filing can carry its own fee. Insurance and Social Security continue for as long as you hold the permit.
Before you spend money on apostilles, take the short eligibility check below. Arx Capital Group is not a law firm; your lawyer contracts with you and bills you directly.
The Washington and Chicago consulates publish USD 190 for US citizens. Fees are revised from time to time, so confirm the amount before paying.
The official FAQ gives about EUR 73 per person for the initial application, charged for the holder and each family member.
An independent Spanish immigration lawyer introduced by Arx charges USD 6,000 in total for the full process. Your lawyer confirms in writing, before you engage, what the fee covers and invoices you directly.
No. Government fees do not cover apostilles or certified translations, which you pay to the providers.
Yes. Government fees apply per person, and each family member needs their own documents and insurance.