Do you dream of a romantic life in sunny Spain?
You’re hardly alone. For many people, Spain is an idyllic land of tranquility and long, hot days. Of course, the reality of living anywhere is always a little different than the daydream, so it’s important to ready yourself for the truth of life in Spain.
That’s why we’ve put together these five important tips for moving to Spain.
1. Learn the Language
Unless you are fluent in Spanish, you’ll likely have a difficult time getting by in Spain. Make an effort to learn as much as possible before making the move. English may be Spain’s most popular second language, but that doesn’t mean everyone speaks it.
In fact, in smaller towns and villages, you may have a hard time finding someone who does speak English. Even in larger cities, you’ll probably find that many people only speak a little English.
This can make everyday tasks, such as grocery shopping, quite difficult. It can also make it hard to find a job, make friends, and generally integrate into Spanish society.
2. Understand Your Visa Options
If you’re not a European citizen, you’ll need to obtain a visa before moving to Spain. The type of visa you’ll need will depend on your circumstances. For example, if you plan to work in Spain, It’s also one of the easiest country to get citizenship in Europe if you’re doing it by marriage.
Be sure to do your research and apply for the appropriate visa well in advance of moving to another country, whether it’s Spain or somewhere else. The last thing you want on arrival is to be denied entry because you don’t have the right paperwork.
3. Find a Home in the Right Location
Spain is a large country with a lot of diversity. Each region has its own culture, climate, and way of life. Whether you’re looking for villas for sale in Marbella or renting an apartment in Madrid, do your research to find the best places in Spain that suit your lifestyle.
Many English speakers who move to Spain may settle down in English-speaking communities with other expatriates, which can make the transition much easier.
4. Know the Law
As a newcomer, it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities in Spain. Familiarize yourself with the country’s laws and regulations regarding work, residency, and other important matters and remember that ignorance of the law is no excuse for breaking it.
5. Separate Truth from Stereotypes
Spain is a country with a rich culture and diverse landscape. Don’t let stereotypes about the country or its people blind you to the reality of life there.
For instance, the classic, stereotypical siesta is not as common as it once was. In fact, it’s more likely that you’ll find Spaniards working late into the night than taking a nap in the afternoon.
Moving to Spain Made Simple
These tips are sure to help when you’re moving to Spain, but there’s no substitute for first-hand experience. The best way to learn about living in Spain is to just go for it. Start planning a move and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying all that Spain has to offer!
Looking for more tips? Check back often to see what’s new.
