Planning a move to Spain from the UK? Whether you’ve set your sights on moving to Marbella, Sotogrande, the Costa del Sol or further afield, you can benefit from moving with the experts at Bishop's Move Spain.
Bishop’s Move Spain is situated in the heart of Algeciras, and we understand the intricacies of relocating to the Costa del Sol. With our extensive experience in European moves and a dedicated Spanish removals team, we are well-equipped to guide you through the process and provide insights into life in Spain. From logistics to cultural nuances, we are committed to ensuring your move is seamless and stress-free.
Moving to a new country always raises a lot of questions, and Spain is no exception. Here, we’re providing the answers to some of our most commonly asked questions from individuals looking to move to Spain.
Why move to Spain?
Spain boasts a beautiful climate, especially in the south, making it a tourist hotspot in the summer months. Not only is the country well known for its wonderful weather, but also for its broad culinary scene, offering a wealth of traditional delicacies such as Spanish tapas and sangria. The relaxed pace of life and relatively cheap cost of living are also factors which draw expats into Spain and make it the ideal destination for those who seek a lifestyle which is a little more laid back.
According to a study conducted by Currencies Direct, Spain is topping the list of retirement hotspots for Brits who are looking to enjoy some sun in their sunset years. Despite this, the country’s allure is far from being limited to pensioners, and rather ranks as a popular destination for younger generations. With plenty of entrepreneurial and innovative work opportunities, it comes as no surprise that Britons favour this sun-soaked country.
How to Move to Spain?
Any international move can be a stressful period for an individual or a family unit hoping to make the transfer as seamless as possible. We’ve prepared some practical tips to get started on the process of relocating to Spain from the UK. There are a few things that must be considered before you embark on the journey, which can make or break your relocation.
1. Research Spain and decide whether you could live there comfortably
2. Decide where in Spain you’d like to live
3. Search for local jobs
4. Find appropriate Spanish accommodation
5. Confirm you meet the requirements for the right Spanish visa for you
To help you with your initial research, let’s take a look at everything you must know before considering Spain as your new home.
Do You Need a Visa to Move to Spain?
If you are planning to live and work in Spain, you will, of course, need the correct visa. There are different requirements for EU and non-EU nationals looking to work in Spain. We have outlined these differences below:
EU Nationals – EU nationals are free to work and live in Spain without restrictions.
Non-EU Nationals – Non-EU nationals will need a work and residence visa to work in the country. There are several requirements to obtain this, including a job contract with a Spanish employer and accompanying documents of proof.
You can find the most up-to-date information about visas for moving to Spain on the UK Government’s website.
Can I Retire to Spain?
Many Brits move to Spain for their retirement years, due to the beautiful sunny climate and relaxed lifestyle. If you are planning to spend more than 90 days in Spain, you will require a visa or Spanish residency. Whilst there aren’t any specific retirement visas for moving to Spain, there are some options available, such as:
Spain has an abundance of beautiful locations to live in. Whether you’re looking to move to a location with excellent schools, a relaxed atmosphere or a city centre, there is a neighbourhood for everyone. Here are some of the top locations in Spain:
Barcelona – Being the country’s capital, Barcelona boasts contemporary and traditional culture in various forms. Dotted with Antoni Gaudí’s whimsical architecture and historical museums, the city has magnificent offerings for anyone.
Seville – The gorgeous Andalusian city of Seville exaggerates romance with its meandering cobblestone streets. Seville is the pinnacle of traditional Spanish culture and tradition.
Madrid – Popular with tourists and expats alike, Madrid has a youthful ‘party-hard’ reputation. Complete with vibrant neighbourhoods and beautiful outdoor spaces, you will never find yourself bored here.
You can still move to Spain after Brexit but you will now need to apply for a visa before doing so. This is similar to visiting non-EU countries such as the USA or Australia. You can still live, work and move in Spain as long as your visa has been approved. Make sure you know the terms and lengths of your visa before committing to a move abroad.
How Much Does it Cost to Move to Spain?
The cost of moving to Spain will vary depending on a number of things, including your country of origin, the amount of belongings you’re taking, which shipping method you opt for and what services are included as part of your move. To give you an idea of removal costs when moving to Spain from the UK, read on.
As a starting point, shared moving style services typically cost between £2,000 and £7,500. However, it’s important to also bear in mind additional, one-off relocation costs, like:
The best way to get a handle on the costs that may be associated with your move to Spain is to speak to our experts. We can help give you an idea of what your actual physical relocation will cost, depending on your move and the size of your home. We can also advise on any other costs you should bear in mind.
Practical Aspects of Living in Spain
When living in another country, there are countless factors that you might not even consider prior to moving. You need to ensure you can live the life you want before embarking on big decisions like these.
Healthcare in Spain
Spanish state healthcare is free of charge to those who live and work in Spain. However should you reside in one of the Spanish islands, you may have to travel to locate a state healthcare provider. There are some treatments that you may need to partly pay for, such as orthopaedic services. There is a co-payment system in place for prescriptions, whereby residents typically pay a percentage of the cost.
Cost of Living in Spain
The typically lower cost of living in Spain compared to the UK is one of the factors that draws people in year after year. The severity of inflation that Britain’s prices have experienced over the past few years has not extended to Spain in the same way, meaning that expats will welcome the lower costs for everyday items, groceries, and rent. While it’s important to research your exact location and living circumstances, it is almost certain that living in Spain will be more affordable than in the UK.
Quality of Expat Life in Spain
As well as the intricacies, you’ll also need to know what life is actually like for Britons who move to Spain. Here are a few tips on the culture and everyday life in Spain.
Culture in Spain
Spanish culture is famous for having a strong social dimension, with lots of fiestas and annual celebrations. The culture is warm and welcoming, with Spaniards prioritising time with friends and family, often over food and drinks. Spanish food is well-known for its rich vibrant flavours, with the heart of Spanish cooking remaining in its rustic, homespun nature. Tapas is a widely enjoyed cuisine in Spain, consisting of small traditional dishes that are often enjoyed in the sun over a lazy afternoon.
Ranking 5th in the Expat Insider Survey 2022, Spain welcomes expats with open arms and is a great place to live for those looking to enjoy a relaxing lifestyle. As with any country, it is important to make an effort to engage with your local community, whether that’s joining a local hobby group or befriending your close neighbours. Whilst the majority of Spaniards speak English, learning the language will be beneficial to you and will be widely appreciated by the locals.
Working Life in Spain
If you are looking to move to Spain for work or find a job when there, you should be prepared for a slightly different attitude to your working day. Typically the Spanish working day is split into two halves, 9 am-2 pm and 5 pm-8 pm, with the famous “siesta” period in between. It’s important to check with your colleagues or employer for any particularities before engaging with this tradition. Similar to the rest of Europe, the working week runs from Monday to Friday for most industries, for bars, retail, and tourism, however, work often extends into the weekend.
Moving to Spain with Bishop’s Move
Once you have decided to move to Spain, it is important to select an experienced company such as Bishop’s Move. As proud members of the British Association of Removers, we have the expertise to provide you with a seamless moving experience from start to finish. Discover our removals to Spain or get an online quote today.
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