Moving to Spain

International Relocation

International Relocation: Moving to Spain

Spain is a country of glistening colors and heritage submerged with natural beauty as far as the eyes can see. With breath taking panoramic views all around Spain is one of the top selections from European countries that attract a large number of expatriates every year. This welcoming country can be a wonderful experience for international relocators who love vivid culture because the nation has so many things to offer. Before shifting to a country one should do their research about language, climate, lifestyle, housing, and most importantly employment opportunities for non-residents. We have found things you need to know before you apply for the visa permit so you can get the right pathway towards your future home. 

Visas

For Non-EU citizens, a visa is an utmost requirement for immigrants to stay in Spain. There are varied options in visas but somehow norms are quite different in Spain, firstly immigrants apply for a Schengen visa which is valid for 3 months only, and while staying in the country they apply for a long-term visa simultaneously. This process is known as Número de Identidad de Extranjero (NIE) in which you are required to apply for an appointment with the foreign authorities and take all the mandatory documents when you visit. After the approval process, you must submit the following fees to a nearby bank as soon as possible and you will finally get the NIE number. It is suggested that translation of your documents in Spanish can speed up your application as residents mostly use the Spanish language in their day-to-day life. 

Related – Moving to Spain from Singapore

Documents

For people moving to Spain with the motive of permanent relocation have to consider the visa standards because they would need all these documents twice. Firstly, when you apply for a short period visa from your native country and finally when you extend your stay after the completion of three months. The mandatory documents for the visa process include: 

• A filled application form 
• Passport valid for six months 
• Visa payment receipt 
• Proof of medical coverage 
• Certificate of health checkup 
• Clearance on criminal records 
• Accommodation Information 
• University acceptance letter for students 
• Employment or Business Records
• Three passport size photographs 
• Financial Proofs like Bank Statements
• Academic Certificates for students 

Job Prospects

Employment opportunities are open for foreigners in Spain and you can only work in the country if you have a job offer from a Spanish employer. The job market is higher for those who are fluent in Spanish or have a grasp of the English Language at least. It is often difficult for non-residents to find work permits because legal authorities only allow short-term internships or jobs to them. So if you are applying for a work permit in a field you need to be highly attentive that the position is progressive or will it help you get a permanent residence there. For students, you must begin your search for a job or internship before the completion of the course as they will not extend your visa if the time is out. Job prospects are very low for foreigners in Spain except if you are an EU citizen then there is zero hassle. 

Insurance

Public healthcare is free in Spain for legal residents but relocators must have an international insurance plan to cover all their medical expenses like medicine, dental care, pediatric, nursing, physiotherapy, and emergency assistance during their stay. New expats are required to choose private health insurance from some global insurers like Allianz, Cigna, April International, or Globality. Sort out the best plan according to your needs and the things they cover for the insured. Insurance is not just a matter of formality to move to a foreign land but it keeps you secure from all the mis happenings at the place where you are known to very few people. So, until you are permitted to access the local medical services it is important for you as an expatriate to look out for yourselves.

Accommodation

Accommodation plays an important role in national relocation and one must decide on the city they are choosing to live in because Spain is a wonderful place to live. Housing is the easiest to find if you wish to buy your own house as you will get the Golden visa that directly makes you a permanent resident of Spain. Renting is a more difficult task when you are a newcomer and you might get scammed by dealers into higher tenant rates. However, there is a wide range of housing options available for everyone, many great landscapes like bright city apartments or charming farmhouses. Rent is entirely dependent on the location you are looking for including essential amenities provided and being famous Madrid and Barcelona are quite expensive from other locations. 

Moving Possession

Belongings are important to bring when you are moving to a new country and your new home. But restrictions are there because you can take limited stuff with you under the lines of allowed quantity and if you have a pet you need to show recent rabies shot proofs so keeping necessary details in mind while packing is relevant. We have listed down all the moving needs so you can keep a checklist on all those items. These possessions consist of a universal power adapter, unlocked smartphone, food ingredients, utensils, winter clothing, and kindle because all these items are very expensive in Spain and you might not want to spend all your savings just after you arrive in an alien world. Do keep frequent checks on other personal belongings and airport essentials. 

Bank Accounts

Banking has a very simple process for non-residents in Spain and you can open an account soon after you land in your city. And if you receive the blue card you can convert your account into a resident account. In Spain, even non-residents are accustomed to taxes there depending on your Spanish income or stipend by employers. Documents required for visiting the bank include Passport, NIE number, address proof, employment records, or student card. But one should consider the products and services the bank is providing to find the best-suited deal that will benefit your future stay. Some of the best providers in Spain are BBVA, Banco Sabadell, Santander, Bunq, and Revolut. However, if you do not wish to open an account in national bank you can take services of some international bank like Citibank and HSBC.