Research visas and work permits
If you plan on moving to Spain from the UK, one of the most important things you need to do is get familiar with the visa and work permit requirements. There are different types of visas, and which one you need depends on your reason for moving to Spain.
If you are going to Spain to work or study, you will need a work or student visa. The process can be lengthy and bureaucratic, so it is best to start early. You can apply for a visa at the Spanish consulate in the UK or in your home country. Make sure you have all the necessary documents before you apply. These might include a valid passport, proof of income, and a criminal record check.
If you are planning on working in Spain, you will need a work permit. This will allow you to work legally in Spain. You will need to provide proof of your qualifications and experience, and you may also need to pass a Spanish language test.
If you are a British national, you may be eligible for a “golden visa.” This type of visa is available to people who invest a minimum of €500,000 in Spanish property. It allows you to live and work in Spain, and it is valid for two years. After that, you can renew it every two years, as long as you maintain the investment.
Remember that the rules and regulations surrounding visas and work permits can change, so be sure to check the latest requirements before you apply. The Spanish embassy in the UK is a good place to start your research.
Plan your finances
Spain is a popular destination for expats, with many Brits choosing to make the move from the UK. It’s a big decision, and there’s a lot to think about before you go. One of the most crucial aspects of your planning should be your finances.
To make the transition as smooth as possible, it’s a good idea to make a detailed plan of your financial situation before you go. Here’s a checklist of some of the most important things to consider:
Create a budget
Even if you already have a budget in place, it’s worth revisiting it before you move. There will be costs associated with moving to Spain that you may not have had to consider before, such as healthcare, property rental costs or maintenance fees, visas or residency fees and tax implications in both countries. Make sure to include one-off expenses such as flights, accommodation and any deposits you might need to pay upfront.
Open a Spanish bank account
Opening a Spanish bank account will make managing your finances much easier, especially if you plan to work or will be paying bills in Spain. There may be fees associated with opening an account if you are not yet a resident in Spain, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal.
Consider your pension
Depending on your age and when you plan to retire, you may need to think about how your pension will be affected by the move. If you are already receiving a UK state pension, you can continue to receive this in Spain. If you have a private pension, it’s worth speaking to your provider to check how the move will affect it. Remember that you may have to pay tax on your pension in both Spain and the UK.
Look at Spanish taxes
You will need to consider how your move to Spain will affect your UK tax status. You may still be liable to pay UK tax on some types of income, such as rental income or pension payments. The Spanish tax system is also different from the UK, so it’s worth getting professional advice to ensure you are fully compliant with the rules.
Planning your finances before you go will go a long way towards making your move to Spain as stress-free as possible. By following this checklist, you can ensure that you have everything in place to make the most of your new life in Spain.
Find a place to live
One of the most important things you need to do when you’re planning a move to Spain is to find a place to live. Choosing the right location and type of accommodation is essential, so make sure to do your research and consider your priorities.
If you’re looking to rent a property, there are several websites you can use to search for available options in Spain. Some of the most popular ones are Idealista, Fotocasa, and Enalquiler. These websites allow you to filter your search by location, price, number of bedrooms, and other criteria.
If you’re planning to buy a property, it’s recommended that you work with a reputable estate agent who can help you navigate the local property market. They can advise you on the best areas to consider based on your budget, lifestyle, and other preferences. They can also help you negotiate a fair price and handle the legal aspects of the transaction.
When choosing a location to live in Spain, consider factors such as proximity to public transport, shops and services, schools, and healthcare facilities. If you’re moving with your family, you may also want to look for a neighbourhood that is safe, friendly, and has plenty of green spaces and recreational facilities.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the cost of living in Spain can vary greatly depending on the region you choose. Coastal areas and big cities are generally more expensive than rural areas, so consider your budget carefully and factor in the potential expenses associated with your chosen location.
Overall, finding a place to live in Spain requires careful planning and research. Take your time to explore your options, consider your needs and priorities, and work with professionals who can help you make the best decision for you and your family.
Sort out your health insurance
When moving to Spain from the UK, it is important to sort out your health insurance. The Spanish public healthcare system is renowned for being one of the best in the world, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be free for you as an immigrant. Although the Spanish public healthcare system is free for Spanish nationals and other European citizens who have the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it is important to be aware that as a non-EU immigrant, you will not be eligible for this coverage.
Therefore, you need to look for private health insurance to cover you for the duration of your stay in Spain. In Spain, there are many private healthcare providers, and it is important to shop around in order to find the best option for you. You can either take out a policy with a Spanish provider or, if you prefer, with a UK-based provider that also covers Spain.
When choosing your health insurance policy, it is important to take into account your particular needs. For example, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you will need to make sure that they are covered by your policy. You will also need to consider whether you need coverage for any special treatments or procedures, and whether you want your insurance to cover you for dental care and other allied health services.
You can get a quote for private health insurance in Spain by contacting an insurance company directly or by using an online insurance comparison website. It is important to take the time to compare different policies and providers, in order to make sure that you are getting the best possible deal.
When you have chosen your health insurance policy, it is important to make sure that you have all the necessary documentation in place. You will need to be able to present your policy documents to your employer, your school, or to any other authorities that may require proof of your health insurance.
Overall, sorting out your health insurance should be one of your top priorities when moving to Spain. By taking the time to find the right policy for you, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you are covered for any medical expenses that you may incur during your stay in Spain.
Enroll your children in school
If you are moving to Spain from the UK with your children, enrolling them in a school should be at the top of your list of priorities. There are both public and private schools in Spain that cater to children of all ages.
If you are planning on enrolling your children in a public school, you will need to obtain a certificate from your local town hall that proves you are a resident of the town where the school is located. This document is known as the “Empadronamiento” and can take a few weeks to obtain, so it is important to start the process as soon as possible.
Once you have obtained the Empadronamiento, you can take it to the school along with your child’s birth certificate, passport, and vaccination records. It is also a good idea to bring along any academic records your child may have from their previous school in the UK.
If you are planning on enrolling your children in a private school, the process may be slightly different. Private schools in Spain often have their own application procedures, and admission may be more competitive than in public schools. Be sure to research the schools in your area and find one that suits your child’s needs and your budget.
It is also important to note that the school year in Spain runs from September to June, with a long summer break in between. If you are planning on moving during the school year, you may need to work with the school to ensure that your child can start mid-year.
Overall, enrolling your children in school should be a top priority when moving to Spain from the UK. With a little bit of research and preparation, you can ensure that your child receives a quality education in their new home country.
Learn the language
One of the most important things to do before moving to Spain is to learn the language. While it’s true that many people in the bigger cities speak English, if you want to fully immerse yourself in Spanish culture and make the most of your experience, it’s essential to speak the language.
There are many ways to learn Spanish, from enrolling in classes to using language apps such as Duolingo or Rosetta Stone. If you have the time and resources, it may be helpful to hire a private tutor or attend an immersion program in Spain. These options can provide you with more personalized attention and help you progress more quickly.
In addition to formal learning methods, there are also many ways to practice speaking Spanish in your day-to-day life. Consider joining a language exchange program, where you can practice speaking with a native speaker who is trying to learn English. You can also watch Spanish TV shows and movies or listen to Spanish music to get more exposure to the language.
It’s important to start learning Spanish as soon as possible, even if you’re not planning to move to Spain for a few months or even years. This will allow you to make progress at a steady pace and feel more confident in your abilities before you arrive in the country.
Learning the language can also help you integrate into Spanish society and make new friends. Spanish people are generally warm and welcoming to foreigners, but speaking the language will show that you’re making an effort to understand their culture and way of life.
Register for a NIE
Before moving to Spain from the UK, one of the essential things on your checklist is to register for a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which is a Spanish identification number for foreigners.
You will need this number for various official and legal purposes in Spain, such as opening a bank account, buying a property, starting a business, or even getting a phone contract. Moreover, without a NIE, you cannot obtain a Spanish residency permit or pay taxes in Spain.
Applying for a NIE is relatively straightforward, and there are different ways to do it. One way is to apply in person at a foreigner’s office (Oficina de Extranjeros) located in most major cities in Spain. To do so, you need to book an appointment online, bring your passport or ID, fill in an application form, and pay a fee (around €10).
Another way to obtain a NIE is to apply at a Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country before moving to Spain. This option may be more convenient if you prefer to do it in advance or avoid long waiting times.
Moreover, if you plan to work or study in Spain, you also need to apply for a social security number (Número de la Seguridad Social) in addition to a NIE. You can do this at a General Social Security Treasury office (Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social) once you arrive in Spain.
In conclusion, make sure to add NIE registration to your moving to Spain from the UK checklist and give yourself enough time to sort it out before you start your new life in Spain.
Get your driver’s license in Spain
If you’re planning to move to Spain from the UK, one of the essential things you need to consider is getting your driver’s license in Spain. Here are some tips that you need to know:
1. Firstly, you must be a resident of Spain and have a Spanish ID card or the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), which is an identification document issued to non-Spanish residents. Obtaining the TIE is one of the primary requirements for getting a driver’s license in Spain.
2. You also need to pass a medical examination at a certified center to ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to drive. The medical examination can cost around €30-€100, depending on where you go.
3. Once you have completed the medical examination, you need to take an eight-hour course at a recognized driving school or autoescuela. The course covers the traffic laws and regulations in Spain, as well as practical driving skills. It costs around €200-€300 to complete the course.
4. After completing the driving course, you need to pass both the theoretical and practical tests before getting your driver’s license. The theoretical test can be done in English, and you need to get at least 90% of the answers correct. The practical test involves driving on the road with an examiner, and you need to show your driving skills and knowledge of Spanish traffic laws.
5. Lastly, it’s important to note that when you get your Spanish driver’s license, you need to surrender your UK driving license. However, if you want to keep your UK driving license, you can apply for an exchange and keep your UK license as long as it’s still valid.
Getting your driver’s license in Spain can be a challenging process, but with proper preparation, you can make the transition smoother. With a Spanish driver’s license in hand, you can explore the beautiful country of Spain at your leisure.
Explore your new home
Now that you’ve taken care of the essential moving tasks such as getting your visa sorted, finding a place to stay, and figuring out how to transport your belongings, it’s time to explore your new home. The more you venture out and discover what Spain has to offer, the sooner you’ll feel like a local.
One of the best things about Spain is the abundance of diverse and stunning landscapes. From the rugged cliffs of Costa Brava to the rolling hills of Andalucia, each region has its own unique character and charm. Take some time to research the different areas and decide where you’d like to explore.
Food and drink are also an essential part of Spanish culture. Make it a priority to sample the local cuisine, including tapas, paella, and churros. Don’t forget to try the local wines and beers as well. Spain is known for its wine production, so take advantage of the opportunity to have a glass or two with your meal.
The cultural offerings in Spain are also incredible. From art and architecture to festivals and music, there’s always something going on. Make a list of museums, galleries, and other cultural sites that you want to visit, and take advantage of your free time to explore them.
One thing that can help you get to know your new home better is to learn the language. Spanish is spoken all throughout the country, and there are many resources available to help you learn. Consider taking a class, hiring a tutor or language exchange partner, or even just practicing with locals.
Lastly, get out and meet new people. Spain is a very social country, and the locals are generally very friendly and welcoming. Join a club or group that interests you, or just strike up a conversation at a café or park. The more connections you make, the more you’ll feel at home.
Remember, moving to Spain is an adventure, and the more you explore, the more you’ll enjoy it. So get out there, have fun, and embrace your new home!
Conclusion
In conclusion, moving to Spain from the UK requires careful planning and research. To make the transition as smooth as possible, it is important to get familiar with the visa and work permit requirements, sort out your finances, find a place to live, enroll your children in school, obtain health insurance, register for a NIE, get your driver’s license in Spain, and explore your new home. By following these steps and seeking professional advice when needed, you can enjoy a stress-free move and make the most of your new life in Spain.
