Hi, I’m Carlos. I’m writing this from Portland, Oregon, where I´m spending the summer with my girlfriend.
Because we actually live in the United States, we understand what it really takes to plan a move from this side of the Atlantic—and we know the little details that can make a big difference.
Moving to Spain is an incredible adventure, but it’s important to plan ahead. Here are a few tips I always tell my clients to keep in mind:
1. Always Have Proof of an Exit Ticket
When you arrive in Spain as a tourist, immigration might ask you to show a return ticket to your home country or proof that you’re leaving the country before your permitted stay ends. A simple option is to book a flight or train out of Spain—to somewhere like Morocco or London. I always recommend getting a ticket with flexible cancellation or change terms so you’re not stuck if your plans change.
2. Think Long-Term When Renting
To register your address (empadronamiento) in Spain, you usually need a rental contract of at least six months. Landlords can be hesitant to rent to newcomers who don’t have Spanish income, because they often rely on non-payment insurance (which works a bit like a credit score check). That’s why it’s so important to plan this part with our help—we can guide you on how to build a reliable economic profile, declare income, pay taxes in Spain, and open doors for future things like a mortgage.
3. Plan Ahead for School Enrollment
If you have children, remember that most public or semi-private schools expect you to be registered in Spain by March or April if you want a spot for the next school year. For families moving mid-year or who want more flexibility, I usually recommend starting with a private school the first year. It gives your kids time to adjust to the language and culture without extra pressure, and it can make the whole timeline less stressful.
4. Get Private Health Insurance for Peace of Mind
Spain’s public healthcare system is excellent, but you won’t have access to it right away. Registration can take months, depending on your residency status. Having private health insurance for at least the first year makes a big difference: the premiums are generally reasonable, there are usually no co-pays, and you get fast service—often with customer support in English. We’ll help you choose the right plan for your situation and explain how to use it.
Let’s Make Your Move Simple
Every move is unique, but these basics can save you time, money, and headaches. From your travel documents to your children’s schooling and your health coverage, getting it right from the start means you can focus on enjoying your new life in Spain.
I’m here to help you every step of the way. Ready to plan your move? Let’s talk today.