Your Guide to Spain Living Working and Thriving

If you’re planning to live in Spain, it’s important to understand housing options, residency requirements, and retirement options. This section will help you with all the details you need to know.

Housing and Rentals in Spain

Finding a place to live in Spain is a big part of your move. So, Spain offers many different types of housing, from apartments in the city to houses in the countryside. Rental prices vary depending on the area. For instance, living in Madrid or Barcelona will usually cost more than in smaller cities or rural areas.

• Renting in Spain:
  Rent prices in Spain can range from €500 to €1,500 or more, depending on where you live. Big cities like Madrid or Barcelona are more expensive, while smaller cities and rural areas are more affordable.
  • City apartment (1-bedroom): €600 to €1,200 per month
  • Larger city apartment (3-bedroom): €1,200 to €2,500 per month
    In addition, rental agreements usually last for one to five years. Be sure to check the contract and terms before signing.

Residency Requirements in Spain

In order to live in Spain long-term, you need to meet the country’s residency requirements. So, depending on your situation, you may need to apply for a visa or residency permit.

• Types of Residency Permits:
  There are different types of permits based on your reasons for staying. For instance, if you have a job offer in Spain, you’ll need a work visa. If you’re joining family members, a family reunification visa might be the right choice.
• Application Process:
  After deciding which permit to apply for, you’ll need to submit your paperwork, such as proof of income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. In other words, make sure you have all the required documents in place to make the process easier.
• Temporary vs. Permanent Residency:
  After living in Spain for a few years, you may be able to apply for permanent residency. This allows you to live and work in Spain without needing to renew your visa. Above all, make sure to keep track of your visa’s expiration dates and apply for renewal or a new permit before it expires.

Retirement in Spain

Spain is a popular destination for retirees. The country offers a high quality of life, good healthcare, and a relaxed lifestyle. In addition, Spain’s warm climate makes it a great place to enjoy your retirement years.

• Retirement Visa:
  If you’re planning to retire in Spain, you’ll need to apply for a non-lucrative visa, which allows you to live in Spain without working. You must prove that you have enough income to support yourself and health insurance to cover your stay.
• Living Costs for Retirees:
  Spain is an affordable place to retire, especially when compared to other European countries. For example, you can live comfortably in smaller towns and coastal areas for around €1,500 to €2,500 per month, depending on your lifestyle.
• Benefits for Retirees:
  Spain offers a good healthcare system, and you may qualify for public healthcare if you’re a resident. In addition, Spain has a vibrant culture with many social activities, making it an exciting place to spend your retirement years.

Interesting Facts About Spain

Spain is a country with a lot of history and interesting features. If you’re thinking about visiting or moving there, it’s helpful to know some fun facts. So, here are a few things you may find surprising about Spain.

Spain’s Location and Size

• Location:
  Spain is located in southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It shares borders with France, Portugal, and Andorra. The country has a coastline along the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Size:
  Spain is the fourth largest country in Europe, after Russia, Ukraine, and France. It covers about 505,000 square kilometers (195,000 square miles).

Spain’s Famous Festivals

Spain is known for its exciting festivals. For instance, one of the most famous festivals is La Tomatina, where people throw tomatoes at each other. Another popular festival is Running of the Bulls in Pamplona. These events are full of energy and bring people from all over the world to Spain.

• La Tomatina: A huge tomato fight in Buñol, held every August.
• Running of the Bulls: A tradition in Pamplona, held during the San Fermin Festival.

Spanish Cuisine

Spain’s food is loved worldwide. Spanish cuisine includes many different dishes depending on the region. One of the most famous dishes is paella, a rice dish with seafood or meat. Another popular dish is tapas, small portions of different foods that are perfect for sharing.

• Paella: A rice dish, originally from Valencia.
• Tapas: Small appetizers served in many different ways.

In addition, Spain is famous for its churros, fried dough pastries, usually served with hot chocolate.

Spain’s Climate

Spain has a mix of climates. So, the weather can change depending on where you are. In general, Spain has warm summers and mild winters. In coastal areas, it is often sunny and pleasant, while inland areas can get quite hot in the summer.

• Coastal Climate: Warm, dry summers and mild winters.
• Inland Climate: Hot summers with cooler winters.

Spanish Language and People

• Language:
  The official language of Spain is Spanish, also known as Castilian. However, there are other languages spoken in different regions, such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque.
• People:
  Spaniards are known for being friendly and social. Family is very important in Spanish culture, and many social events revolve around food and family gatherings.

Spain’s Famous Landmarks

Spain is home to many famous landmarks. For example, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is a large, unfinished church designed by architect Antoni Gaudí. Alhambra, a palace in Granada, is another beautiful historical site. These landmarks show Spain’s rich history and stunning architecture.

Spain’s Economy

Spain has a strong economy. It is known for its tourism, which is one of the country’s most important industries. Spain is also famous for its wine, especially Rioja wine, which is made in the northern part of the country.

If you need help planning your move or learning more about Spain, feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist you with all the information you need to make your transition smooth and easy.