Spain boasts an estimated population of 47,615,034 inhabitants. If you’re also thinking of making this gorgeous country your home, there are a few steps you must take first to prepare.
We’ve compiled this brief guide with useful tips for anyone moving to Spain. Keep reading to discover how to make the most of your journey.
Prepare Your Budget
There’s a lot to consider when looking up how to move to Spain. We’ll assume that you’ve already done your research and you know which city you’re moving to. The cost of living in Spain can vary greatly depending on where you are, so you’ll want to adjust your budget to reflect this.
Some of the most popular places to live in Spain include Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Valencia, and Sevilla. These cities have rich cultures, beautiful views, and plenty of work opportunities. However, some areas have a much higher cost of living than others.
Research the area and add up factors like rent, food costs, transportation, etc. Ensure you can afford it so you’re not financially burdened.
Meet the Qualifications for Residency
Once you’ve decided on a location, you must look up the requirements to obtain Spanish residency.
British citizens/UK nationals can get a residency visa through the Investment Residence Permit Program (Golden Visa). This allows investors to obtain residency for themselves and their families through investments in the country.
Other options include applying for a work or self-employment visa, a digital nomad visa, or a student visa. Requirements vary depending on why you’re entering the country.
Decide How You’re Moving
Moving to another country can be expensive, but you don’t have to bust your budget to make the trip.
You have a few options for moving, depending on where you’re coming from. For instance, you may have to book plane tickets and fly in. There’s also the option of a one way van hire from the UK to Spain.
Decide what you’re bringing with you and how much space you need. Generally, it’s cheaper to only bring the essentials and buy any extras when you arrive. As such, looking into a furnished or partially furnished residence may be your best bet.
Get Your Certificado de Empadronamiento
Anyone living in the country for more than six months has to register their living address at the town hall. Once you do, you’ll get a certificado de empadronamiento.
Getting this certificate lets you get health insurance, open a Spanish bank account, get a house, etc. In short, you need this official document for a lot of things!
Are You Moving to Spain Soon?
If you’re interested in living in Spain, you must complete the above steps first. Failure to prepare can leave you in a bind.
If you don’t fill out all the necessary paperwork and meet the requirements, you might face delays. Choosing the wrong place to live or the wrong way to move can cost you more than you can afford. Thankfully, these steps should help you prepare for the journey.
Do you want to learn about moving to Spain or discover more about the country? Read some of our other travel articles before you go.