Spanish immigration lawyers in Shanghai: visas to live in Spain
Quick answer: if you live in Shanghai and want to move to Spain, the right visa depends on how you will live there: remote work, passive income, studies or a job with a Spanish company. You apply at the Spanish consulate covering your province (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Hong Kong), usually through its visa centre. We prepare your file with you online, from choosing the visa to getting your TIE card.
Reviewed on 8 November 2026 by Carolina Díaz Calderón, lawyer registered with the Madrid Bar (ICAM no. 97778).
Chinese citizens need a Schengen visa even for short stays. Living in Spain requires a residence visa issued by the consulate.
Which visa fits you
| Your situation | Recommended route |
|---|---|
| You work remotely for companies or clients outside Spain | Digital nomad visa |
| You live on savings, investments, a pension or rental income | Non-lucrative residence |
| A Spanish company offers you a qualified role | Highly qualified professional |
| You will study in Spain | Student residence |
| You are relocating and want to plan your taxes | Beckham Law or our digital nomad + Beckham Law package |
Looking for the Golden Visa? It was abolished on 3 April 2025: buying property no longer gives residence. See the alternatives for investors.
Documents usually requested from China
- No criminal record certificate from the Public Security Bureau where you live, with its notarial certificate.
- Apostille: China joined the Hague Convention in November 2023, so Chinese documents no longer need consular legalisation.
- Sworn translation into Spanish of documents in Chinese.
- Private health insurance with full cover in Spain and no co-payments.
Criminal record certificates are usually only valid for a short time (typically 3 months), so we tell you when to request them so they don't expire before your appointment.
Taxes
Spain and China have a double taxation treaty. For business owners with companies in China we review tax residence and whether self-employment or the Beckham Law suits you.
How we work
- Assessment: we review your profile and tell you which visa fits and what the risks are.
- Document checklist: the exact list for your consulate, including apostilles or legalisation and translations.
- Application: we prepare the file and support you at the consular appointment, or file in Spain where the law allows it.
- Arrival in Spain: town hall registration, fingerprints and TIE, plus tax planning if you need it.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply if I live in Shanghai?
At the Spanish consulate covering your province (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Hong Kong), usually through its visa centre. The competent consulate depends on where you legally reside, not on your nationality.Can I apply for non-lucrative residence with income from China?
Yes, if you prove sufficient and stable financial means. Consulates focus on the traceability of funds and translated bank statements.Do I need to travel to Madrid?
No. We work online: we review your documents, prepare the file and only flag the steps that need you in person, such as the consular appointment or TIE fingerprints.Talk to a Spanish immigration lawyer
If you live in Shanghai and want to move to Spain, tell us about your case and we will tell you which route suits you and which documents to prepare first.