I'm hoping someone can ease my confusion.

I'm planning to move with my girlfriend (both Americans) to Spain next year. Neither of us have any work permits as of yet; we're just going to figure things out as we go.

As I research for our move, I'm becoming more and more confused about the Schengen visa requirements. I understand that there are 15 countries enrolled in the system, and that the purpose of it is to eliminate travel restrictions within those 15 countries. And that the visa is good for a 90-day period.

What I'm confused about is whether or not I even need a Schengen visa. From what I read, US citizens, along with citizens from most areas outside Africa and the Middle East, are exempt from requiring it. Does this mean that I can just move to Spain without having to worry about a visa?

I will eventually be visiting the Spanish Consulate here in Boston, so I assume they will clarify. But until then, can anyone explain this to me?