What to do before emigrating to Spain?

What to do before emigrating to Spain?

Dreaming of a new life under the Spanish sun? Emigrating to Spain is an exciting adventure, but it also requires proper preparation. From paperwork to housing and integration into society, here are the most important steps you need to take before making the move.

1. Arrange the right documents

Before you move to Spain, you need to take care of the necessary administrative matters:

• NIE number: This is your tax identification number in Spain and essential for almost everything from opening a bank account to buying a house.
• Registration with the municipality (Empadronamiento): Once you have permanent residence, you must register with the municipality.
• Residency (TIE card): If you stay in Spain for more than three months, you must become an official resident.
• Social Security (Seguridad Social): This is required if you are going to work in Spain or start a business.

2. Financial preparation

Make sure you are financially prepared for your emigration:

• Cost of living: Costs vary by region. Cities such as Barcelona and Madrid are more expensive than smaller villages.
• Tax rules: Spain has a different tax system than the Netherlands or Belgium. Inform yourself about income tax, wealth tax and inheritance tax.
• Banking: Open a Spanish bank account to make payments and direct debits easier.
• Health insurance: Check if your current insurance provides coverage or purchase Spanish health insurance.

3. Arranging housing

You can choose between renting or buying. For a smooth start, it is advisable to rent something temporarily and buy a home later when you are well settled.

• Rent: Ask about contract terms and deposit. Rents can be high in popular areas.
• Buying: Engage a lawyer to check legal issues and documents before buying a home.

4. Work or start your own business

If you are going to work or do business in Spain, you need to consider:

• Labor market: Unemployment in Spain is higher than in the Netherlands or Belgium, but there are opportunities in sectors such as tourism, hospitality and real estate.
• Own business (Autónomo): As a self-employed person, you must register with the Chamber of Commerce and pay social security contributions.
• Diplomas and recognition: Some professions require diploma recognition by Spanish authorities.
• Hospitality-Spain: Want to get started in the hospitality industry? Horeca-Spanje offers complete care-free services when starting your hospitality business, from permits and locations to personnel and marketing. This allows you to focus on running your business without worrying about complex administration.

5. Language and integration

Although you can often get by with English in tourist areas, it helps tremendously if you speak Spanish. Take lessons in advance and practice as much as you can.

• Spanish lessons: Take a course or use apps such as Duolingo.
• Understanding culture: Spaniards have a different lifestyle, such as the siesta and late-night eating habits.
• Networking: Join expat groups or local associations to integrate faster.

6. Transportation and mobility

Decide whether to take your car or buy a new one. Note:

• Driving License: Dutch and Belgian licenses are valid, but a Spanish driver’s license may be required after registration as a resident.
• Car registration: If you bring your car, you must have it registered with Spanish license plates within a certain amount of time.
• Public transportation: In large cities, public transportation is well organized and often more economical than a car.

7. Health Care

Spanish health care is of high quality. You can choose between public and private care:

• Public care: Free for people who pay social security contributions.
• Private care: Faster access and more choice, especially useful if you are not yet a resident.
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): For temporary coverage before switching to the Spanish healthcare system.

Conclusion

Emigrating to Spain is a great move, but proper preparation is crucial. Getting your administration, finances, housing and integration right beforehand will allow you to enjoy your new life in Spain without any worries.

Are you planning to emigrate? Share your questions or experiences in the comments!