Moving to Spain can be an attractive prospect, no matter who you are. The considerably lower cost of living and year-round sunshine mean that some 400,000 Britons are estimated to reside there. But just because a holiday in Spain is a breeze, relocating should not be underestimated.
There are several factors that we see time and time again that people get wrong when planning a relocation to Spain. We highlight a few of these key considerations in our blog so that you can avoid making these mistakes and ensure a smooth move abroad.
1. Underestimating the complexity of visas, permits and residency for Spain
Spanish bureaucracy can be overwhelming, and the amount of work involved in applying for your visa, residency and/or permit is often more than anticipated. One of the biggest mistakes when moving to Spain from the UK in 2024 was thinking that the process would be quick and easy. It can take months, sometimes even years, for all of your paperwork to be completed, particularly now that Brexit has taken place and regulations have changed.
It is important not to book your flights or make the final preparations for your move until you have applied for your visa. Without the correct paperwork in place, you will be unable to work or earn money in Spain, and you will not be able to exceed the maximum duration of 90 days for your stay.
Once you arrive in Spain, you need to apply for your residency either online or at the immigration office. Once your residency has been approved, you will need to apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), your Spanish identity card. You should aim to do this as quickly as possible following your arrival.
It is important not to book your flights or make the final preparations for your move until you have applied for your visa. Without the correct paperwork in place, you will be unable to work or earn money in Spain and you will not be able to exceed the maximum duration of 9o days for your stay.
Once you arrive in Spain, you need to apply for your residency either online or at the immigration office. Once your residency has been approved, you will need to apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), your Spanish identity card. You should aim to do this as quickly as possible following your arrival.
2. Failing to begin learning Spanish before moving
You won’t be expected to be fluent in Spanish when you first move to Spain, but it will make your transition far easier if you can understand the basics. Nearly 94% of the Spanish population speaks Spanish, so not picking up even a few Spanish phrases can have an impact on how you settle into your new neighbourhood.
If you’re thinking about moving to Spain in the future and are currently unable to speak any Spanish, it will be worth your while to take a short course so that you don’t fall victim to this mistake when you move.
3. Assuming you can find a job when you arrive in Spain
Following Brexit, Brits are now subject to non-EU immigration regulations. This means that if you are planning on working in Spain, you will need to find and secure a suitable job role before you can apply for your visa, and even that can be difficult.
You’ll need to find a role that the government lists in their job shortage catalogue, apply for a vacancy and then provide your prospective employer with enough information to help them prove that you are more qualified for the job than the locals. This information will help your employer to apply for your work visa, which will need to be approved before you can move to Spain.
4. Failing to speak to other expats
At the end of 2021, there were over 407,000 Brits living in Spain. This represents a huge community that you can learn from before, during and after your move to Spain.
Reaching out to these people through online networks and at face-to-face events allows you to benefit from the invaluable experience of others who have been through the move that you are about to make. You may also find that you can make some great friends who reside in your new local area, which will make you feel more at home almost instantly.
5. Buying a house without getting a feel for the area
It can be tempting to buy a property before moving to Spain so that you have a secure new home ready for your arrival. However, this can be a big mistake when you have no prior experience or understanding of the area.
To get a real feel for a neighbourhood, why not consider renting first? Take the time to learn about the locals, the area, and the facilities nearby and ensure that you are certain about the place before taking the plunge.
Of course, there are situations where this may not apply, such as if you are looking to obtain a Golden Visa and need to purchase a property as your investment.
6. Being unprepared financially for moving to Spain
The cost of living and salary in Spain is different to what you may be used to in the UK. Many Brits make the mistake of assuming that the cost of living in Spain is far lower, which isn’t always the case. You also need to take into account that, generally, the average salary in Spain is lower than what you may be used to.
You will also need to ensure you open a Spanish bank account as soon as possible. You will need this to pay your utility bills and make other local payments. You will also find that it will soon become expensive to use ATMs to draw cash from your English bank account.
7. Misjudging the cultural shock
Moving to a new country, with a new language to learn and new friends to make, is bound to be a culture shock in one way or another. Failing to embrace this new way of life could be one of the biggest mistakes you make when moving to Spain.
The Spanish lifestyle is slower and more laid back, rest is important, and family time is sacred. This can be a huge change if you are moving from a big, fast-paced city in the UK with a culture of working too hard. Relax, enjoy it and take it in your stride. We’re sure you’ll soon feel the benefits.
If you are currently thinking about moving to Spain from the UK, take a look at our international moving advice for everything you need to know about international relocation. Being suitably prepared for your move will ensure that you do not make any big mistakes that can impact your quality of life when you arrive in Spain.
Moving to Spain FAQs
How easy is it to move to Spain?
Moving to Spain is a complex process, but it can be achieved with careful attention to detail and preparation. Considerations such as visas, work permits, and residency pathways are all crucial from the first step. For further assistance, relocation companies are the best way to ensure no mistakes throughout.
What do I need to move to Spain?
The steps to moving to Spain are similar to those involved in moving to any foreign country. These start with, but are not limited to, the following:
- Determine the right visa
- Gather the documentation required (passport, proof of income, certificate of health, etc.)
- Apply for a visa with the correct documentation
There are also steps to follow once you arrive in the country, such as obtaining your NIE number, opening a local bank account, and registering with the local police.
Do you need a visa to move to Spain?
Yes, you’ll need to apply for the correct visa for your circumstances if you are relocating to Spain. This will depend on the length of stay, your occupation type, how much income you have, and so on.
How much does it cost to move to Spain ?
The cost of moving to Spain from the UK is dependent on many factors. Transport costs will be affected by how much you’re planning to transport, with this estimated to be anywhere between £2,000 and £8,000. Accommodation deposits and furniture costs will be entirely dependent on what you can find in your search. If you have secured work already, you will only really need funds to support yourself before receiving your first paycheck in your new location.
Can I still claim PIP if I move to Spain?
As per the UK government website, you cannot claim DLA for the adult mobility component and PIP mobility component abroad.
If you are looking for international removals services to help make your relocation easier, get in touch with our team today.
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