Moving to Spain

Those planning to relocate to Spain for work or retirement should become somewhat familiar with local culture and laws before the move. Although Europeans may adjust to local life easier than Americans, for example, one should always come prepared as to avoid culture shock. Although millions enjoy the country each year during tourist season, living there long term will be different and isn’t for everyone. For instance, the hot Spanish sun may be a bit too harsh for some fair skinned visitors, particularly during certain parts of day. Overall, however, a majority of expatriates living in Spain wouldn’t dream of ever leaving again. The first step in moving to Spain, or anywhere for that matter, is deciding on where exactly to move. Those retiring to the country of Spain will have better options, as they don’t have to worry about being close to their job. However, a retired citizen in Spain should probably consider an affordable place to stay, as they won’t be actively making income in the coming years. Although many are tempted to get a coastal home to live in, a popular tourist area will be more expensive than a countryside property. However, for some lucky few, money is not an object. Those who are moving to Spain and need to find work should actually consider a more heavily populated area. Although the cost of living in a tourist heavy area is higher, the chances of finding steady work are also higher there. The construction industry in Spain is often hiring new workers. A word of warning, however: manual labor in the intense Spanish sun is not for everyone. It may be too harsh for a fair European or American at first. Other options for work in Spain include hospitality jobs at local resorts and bars/nightclubs. There will always be a large crowd at these local establishments, particularly in the summertime.

Members of the European Union will not need a Visa to enter Spain and many UK retirees choose to move to Spain because they can continue to receive their pensions. However, people from other parts of the world will have to go through a bit more paperwork when entering and residing in the country. Foreigners relocating to Spain will have to obtain a Numero de identidad de extranjero, or N.I.E. card. One can find an application online or at a local police station upon arrival. Having paperwork filled out beforehand is always advantageous to those adjusting to their new life in a foreign country, however.

When traveling with certain important documents, one should be very careful not to have anything lost or stolen. Although Spain is not considered to be a dangerous place to move, there are the usual risks involved with any tourist heavy areas of the world. Where there is lots of money coming in and out, con artists and thieves seem to flock. Being unfamiliar with the area can make someone particularly vulnerable to money or identity theft, so one should do as much homework about the area as possible. There is travel insurance available for people going to Spain and it isn’t a bad idea to purchase some.

Local real estate agents are happy to assist people in looking for property for sale or rent. One may wish to rent a house or apartment before purchasing it, as this will give the buyer a better feel for the place. As with any large purchases overseas, it is recommended that a buyer seek the guidance of a Spanish lawyer when signing final documents. This isn’t to say that one should expect any kind of disaster in their new venture, however. Overall, a move to Spain should be fairly headache free and those who have done so almost always have nothing but wonderful things to say about their new life by the Mediterranean.

You can never have too much information on the culture, climate and general laws of the country that you wish to move to. Try the Internet, read books on Spain, ask people that have already made the move. Be prepared for different ideas and the way that people live and work, healthier food and a new lifestyle.