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Moving to Spain

How to Move to Spain: Step-by-Step Guide for Expats

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Thinking about swapping long commutes and gray skies for Mediterranean light and late dinners? You’re not alone. Spain attracts expats for its sunny climate, rich culture, friendly communities, and a cost of living that’s often easier on the wallet than elsewhere in Western Europe.

Whether you’re relocating for work, study, retirement, or the remote-worker lifestyle, this step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to move with confidence—from visas and housing to healthcare, banking, and settling into daily life.

What you’ll learn:

  • Which visa fits your situation (work, student, non-lucrative, digital nomad, and more)
  • How to choose a city or region that matches your budget and lifestyle
  • Where to find housing and how to avoid common rental pitfalls
  • How Spain’s healthcare works and how to get covered from day one
  • How to open a bank account, register with authorities, and handle taxes
  • Practical tips to integrate into Spanish culture and build a local network

Step 1: Choose Your Location and Lifestyle

Spain is diverse. Your experience in Madrid won’t be the same as life in Málaga, Valencia, or Bilbao. Narrow your options before diving into paperwork.

  • Big-city energy (Madrid, Barcelona): Fast transport, international jobs, world-class culture. Higher rents, especially in central neighborhoods.
  • Coastal life (Valencia, Málaga, Alicante): Beach access, plenty of sun, growing expat communities, better value on housing.
  • Island living (Balearic or Canary Islands): Slower pace, great weather, smaller job markets, higher import costs in some cases.
  • Northern green belt (Galicia, Asturias, Basque Country): Cooler, rainier, excellent food, strong regional culture, lower tourism pressure.
  • Andalusian charm (Seville, Granada, Cádiz): Historic centers, vibrant traditions, hot summers, good value inland.

Tip: Create a short list of 2–3 cities and spend at least a week in each if possible. Track daily costs, commute times, and how neighborhoods feel at night and on weekends.

Step 2: Pick the Right Visa Path

Important question: Do you need a visa to go to Spain?

Your visa determines how long you can stay and what you can do. Start here.

Non-Lucrative Visa (No Work)

Best for retirees and those with sufficient passive income or savings. You can live in Spain but not work for Spanish employers. Many use it as a path toward long-term residency.

What you need:

  • Proof of income/savings above a set threshold (updated annually)
  • Comprehensive private health insurance with no co-pays
  • Background check and medical certificate
  • Proof of accommodation (temp is often acceptable)

Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Workers)

Ideal if you work for non-Spanish employers or your own foreign company. Allows residence while working remotely, subject to income thresholds and eligibility rules.

What you need:

  • Proof of remote employment or business activity outside Spain
  • Minimum income level (varies; verify current threshold)
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Background check and supporting documentation

Work Visa

For those with a Spanish job offer or transfer. Your employer typically initiates the authorization in Spain.

Paths include:

  • Highly qualified professionals (e.g., EU Blue Card)
  • General employment permits
  • Intra-company transfers
  • Seasonal work

Student Visa

For degree programs or long courses. You can often work part-time within set limits.

Requirements typically include:

  • Acceptance letter from a recognized institution
  • Proof of funds and accommodation
  • Health insurance

Entrepreneur/Startup Visa

For founders with innovative projects and investment plans.

Pro tip: Start early. Appointment slots at consulates fill up, and some approvals require extra steps in Spain.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

A strong application gets decisions faster and reduces back-and-forth.

  • Passport: Valid well past your intended stay; keep spare copies.
  • Application forms: Complete carefully; keep dates and details consistent.
  • Proof of income: Bank statements, pension letters, contracts, or dividends.
  • Health insurance: Private policy with comprehensive coverage (for many visas).
  • Background and medical checks: Follow consular instructions on validity windows.
  • Accommodation: Hotel booking, rental, or invitation letter; some consulates accept temporary bookings at the application stage.
  • Translations and apostilles: If required, use sworn translators and apostille documents from your home country’s authorities.

Tip: Keep a digital folder with PDFs and a printed set. Name files clearly (e.g., “Passport_YourName.pdf”).

Step 4: Apply at the Correct Consulate

Apply from your country of legal residence. If Spain isn’t your main destination (for multi-country trips), apply where you’ll spend most time. Many consulates outsource appointments to visa centers, follow their process closely.

  • Book early (8–12 weeks ahead for many long-stay visas).
  • Bring originals and copies.
  • Be ready to provide biometrics (fingerprints) if requested.
  • Track your application status and keep your contact info updated.

Step 5: Plan Your Move and Temporary Housing

Once approved, your visa will specify entry dates. Book flights and arrange short-term housing while you search for a long-term rental.

  • Short-term base: 2–6 weeks in an aparthotel or furnished rental gives you time to view apartments in person.
  • Season matters: Summer and September are high-demand months in many cities. Expect competition and book earlier.

Step 6: Find Long-Term Accommodation

Spain’s rental market varies by city. In-person visits help you spot noise levels, natural light, and building condition.

Where to look:

  • Major portals: Fotocasa, Habitaclia (Catalonia), Milanuncios
  • Local agents: Often have properties before they hit portals
  • Expat and neighborhood groups: Useful for leads, but vet carefully

What landlords commonly request:

  • Passport/NIE (once available)
  • Proof of income (contracts, bank statements)
  • One to two months’ deposit, plus agency fee in some regions
  • References (optional but helpful)

Lease tips:

  • Check if the apartment is exterior (more light) or interior (quieter, sometimes darker).
  • Test water pressure and appliances during the visit.
  • Confirm heating/AC type (central vs. split units).
  • Ask about community fees and utilities (who pays what).
  • For older buildings, confirm elevator and insulation quality.

Step 7: Register Locally and Get Your NIE/TIE

After arrival, you’ll complete key admin steps:

  • Empadronamiento (local registration): Register your address at the town hall. You’ll need your lease, passport, and sometimes utility proof. This helps with school enrollment, health services, and other procedures.
  • NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero): Your foreigner ID number for tax and official paperwork. Many visas grant it during the TIE process.
  • TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero): Your residence card with photo and fingerprint. Book an appointment (cita previa) soon after arrival and bring required documents (visa, passport, photos, fee form, proof of address).

Tip: Appointment slots can be tight. Check early mornings and refresh often. Consider authorized gestoría services if you want help.

Step 8: Set Up Healthcare

Spain offers both public and private systems.

  • Public healthcare: High quality. Access depends on your status (employed, self-employed, student, family member). Once registered with social security and assigned a health center, you can book appointments with your primary care doctor.
  • Private insurance: Popular for new arrivals and required for many visas. It offers fast specialist access and English-speaking options in larger cities.
  • Pharmacies: Play a strong role in basic care; pharmacists can advise on minor issues and prescriptions.

Tip: For families, check pediatric coverage and local hospital ratings. For chronic conditions, bring medical records and set up a primary doctor early.

Step 9: Open a Bank Account and Handle Finances

A Spanish bank account makes rent, utilities, and mobile plans easier.

  • Documents: Passport, NIE/TIE (or pre-residence “non-resident certificate” if needed), proof of address, and sometimes proof of income.
  • Banks: Large national banks (e.g., Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank) and online options can work well. Compare fees, English support, and app usability.
  • Utilities and internet: Set up direct debits (domiciliaciones). Internet providers include Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, and regional players. Ask neighbors which service is most reliable in your building.
  • Cost of living snapshot: Rents vary widely—central Madrid/Barcelona are pricier than Valencia, Seville, or Alicante. Groceries, fresh produce, and dining out are often more affordable than in many Northern European or North American cities.

Step 10: Understand Taxes and Employment Basics

  • Work contracts: Permanent (indefinido) offers stability; temporary (temporal) has end dates. Review probation periods and benefits.
  • Self-employment (autónomo): Register with the tax agency (AEAT) and social security. You’ll pay monthly social security contributions and file quarterly taxes.
  • Income tax: Residents are generally taxed on worldwide income. Double-taxation treaties may apply. Non-residents are taxed only on Spanish-sourced income at non-resident rates.
  • Digital nomads: The visa may include favorable tax options if you meet criteria. Get professional advice to optimize and stay compliant.

Pro tip: Hire a tax advisor (asesor) familiar with expat situations. They’ll set up your quarterly filings, explain deductions, and help with year-end returns.

Step 11: Mobile, Transport, and Daily Logistics

  • Mobile plans: Competitive prepaid and contract options. Bring an unlocked phone and compare data deals.
  • Public transport: Major cities have efficient metro and bus networks with monthly passes. Trains (AVE/Avlo/OUIGO) connect cities quickly; buses cover smaller towns.
  • Driving: Spain drives on the right. You may need to exchange your license depending on your nationality. Car-sharing and rentals can fill gaps outside big cities.
  • Deliveries and shopping: Local markets are excellent for produce and fish. Supermarkets (Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl) and online delivery services make weekly shopping easy.

Step 12: Schooling and Family Considerations

  • Public schools: Free and solid, with Spanish (or regional language) immersion. Enrollment requires padrón registration and available places.
  • Concertado schools: Semi-private, partly state-funded—often a balance of cost and class size.
  • International schools: English, French, and other curricula in major cities. Higher fees; apply early.

Tip: Visit schools, meet staff, and ask about language support for newcomers.

Step 13: Learn the Language (and a Bit of the Local One)

Spanish opens doors—socially and professionally. In some regions, you’ll also hear Catalan, Galician, or Basque. You don’t need fluency on day one, but even a few phrases make life smoother.

  • Classes: Municipal language schools (EOI), private academies, or online tutors.
  • Daily practice: Chat with neighbors, order at markets, and switch your phone to Spanish.
  • Goal: Aim for basic conversational ability within 3–6 months. It accelerates integration.

Step 14: Build Your Community and Integrate

Moving is easier when you’re connected.

  • Join local groups: Sports, language exchanges, hiking clubs, volunteering, professional meetups.
  • Use coworking spaces: Great for remote workers and making friends.
  • Embrace the rhythm: Lunch 1–3 pm, dinner from 9 pm, Sundays slower. Plan appointments and errands around siesta hours in smaller towns.
  • Celebrate local traditions: Fallas, Semana Santa, feria season, human towers in Catalonia, romerías in the south—each region has its own calendar.

Step 15: Map Your Residency Timeline

If you plan to stay long term, plan ahead.

  • Renewals: Note renewal windows for your visa or residence card.
  • Long-term residence: Many residents are eligible after five years of legal stay.
  • Citizenship: Requirements vary and can include language/integration tests and residency timelines. Dual citizenship rules differ by nationality—check what applies to you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to hunt housing until your last week: Give yourself time on the ground.
  • Underestimating admin: Book appointments early, keep organized folders, and consider a gestor for complex steps.
  • Ignoring regional differences: Language, documents, and processes can vary. Ask locally.
  • Overlooking insurance and taxes: Get coverage from day one and professional tax advice in your first year.

Rough First-Year Budgeting (Example Snapshot)

Your costs will vary by city and lifestyle, but here’s a simple framework to plan:

  • Housing: 30–40% of budget (more in central Madrid/Barcelona, less elsewhere)
  • Utilities/internet/mobile: 5–10%
  • Groceries/markets: 10–15%
  • Dining/entertainment: 10–15%
  • Transport: 5–10%
  • Insurance/health: 5–10%
  • Admin/pro services (gestor, translations): One-time setup costs in month 1–3

Track your spending for the first three months and adjust. Spain rewards local shopping and off-peak travel with lower costs.

Your First 30 Days Checklist

  • Week 1: Arrive, settle into temporary housing, get SIM card, start apartment viewings
  • Week 2: Sign lease, empadronamiento appointment booked, gather TIE docs
  • Week 3: TIE biometrics appointment, open bank account, set up utilities
  • Week 4: Register with healthcare system or activate private insurance, start language classes, join a local group

Conclusion: Take the First Step

Moving to Spain is a big decision but with the right plan, it’s absolutely doable. Choose your city, pick the visa that fits your life, and line up your documents early. Book those first appointments, secure a short-term base, and give yourself time to find the right home. The rest; friends, language, favorite cafés, follows faster than you think. Start with step one today and get closer to your Spanish life.

Moving from USA? Check out our How to Move to Sapin from the US guide