Moving to Spain in a nutshell:
- residence permit;
- N.I.E. number;
- housing;
- organising the move;
- health care;
- registration in Spain;
- completing documents;
- finding a job;
- learning the language before moving.
1. Find the right residence permit in Spain
To live in Spain permanently, you need to apply for a residence permit. This can be done online or through the migration office.
2. Obtain a N.I.E. number
The N.I.E. number (Identificación Extranjeros number) is required for all financial transactions in Spain.
3. Find a flat in Spain
If you want to find a flat in Spain, you can use the services of an estate agency or browse advertisements on the internet or the property sections of newspapers.
To find a flat in Spain, you can use many different sources, including local advertisements, estate agencies, online portals, travel agents or friends. You can also visit Spain and look for a flat locally. Often prices are lower if the landlord sees the potential tenant in person. Also bear in mind that the laws in Spain are very strict and there are many rental regulations to follow.
4. Organise your move to Spain
Moving to Spain can be time-consuming and expensive, so it’s worth organising in advance. You can use removal company or hire a van to transport your possessions to Spain yourself.
Preparing for the move:
- thinking about and establishing the purpose of the move;
- obtaining all necessary permits and visas;
- finding the right removal company to transport your belongings;
- preparing a list of things to move;
- preparing the documentation required by the Spanish authorities;
- preparing identity, family and health documents.
Removal:
- arranging transport to Spain;
- determination of place of residence in Spain;
- arranging accommodation in Spain;
- arranging local transport;
- arranging all necessary formalities in Spain;
- arranging all formalities for residence in Spain;
- arranging all formalities for working in Spain;
- final settlement of all formalities for the move.
5. Settle health issues
If you are moving to Spain, you will need to register with the health system and obtain the appropriate insurance.
6. Register at your new place of residence
When you move to Spain you need to register with your new place of residence so that you have an official address, this will help you when dealing with all the formalities.
7. Complete all necessary documents
Before you can legally work in Spain, you need to complete all the required documents. You will also need to pay all taxes and fees.
8. Find a job in Spain
There are many job opportunities in Spain, especially for those with the right qualifications. Browse job opportunities in newspapers, on the internet or through employment agencies.
9. Learn Spanish
Although you can communicate in English in most places in Spain, knowing Spanish can help you integrate into the local community.
To learn Spanish effectively before you move, you first need to define your goals and identify your needs. Think about what language skills you want to achieve before you move. You can focus on basic vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation to understand and express yourself in Spanish. You can also spend time learning industry-specific vocabulary, such as business language.
The next step will be to identify the methods and tools you will use to learn. We recommend using a Spanish course, dictionaries, grammars, podcasts and other educational materials. You can also take Spanish classes or find a language exchange partner.
Finally, you need to define a learning plan. An effective study plan will involve regular study sessions. It is important to set goals for each session. You can also focus on one aspect of Spanish, such as vocabulary and pronunciation, rather than trying to reconcile everything at once.
