Moving to another country is a big decision to consider, as there’s lots of factors to weigh up before you can be sure that it really is the right decision to make. This article will summarise some important information about moving to Spain, which should hopefully help you decide whether it’s a good idea.
Healthcare
Before registering as a resident and applying for a Visa, you must show that you have healthcare cover. Those moving to Spain who will continue working will be covered by social security contributions. Alternatively, employees and retirees may pay into private insurance, or by paying voluntary contributions to the Convenio Especial. Once healthcare has been applied for, basic state services are free, much like the NHS in England. Certain treatments will require the additional costs to be covered. Dependants will also be covered by your healthcare. This means that if you do move to Spain, there’s no need to worry about having to pay for or even access healthcare treatment when they’re needed.
Important documents
Aside from your passport, after Brexit you’ll also need the correct Visa to be able to move to Spain and stay for more than three months. This can be applied for in the UK, either in London, Manchester or Edinburgh. After this, once you’ve arrived in Spain, you’ll need to apply for a residence document. Your family members (spouse/dependent partner, dependent children and grandchildren, dependent parents and grandparents) must do this too, and can do so up to three months before you leave or once you’ve arrived in Spain. There’s different Visas depending on what you’re planning on doing in Spain. For example, retirees will be able to obtain different Visa to those going to work in Spain.
Acquiring a Visa is relatively simple if you follow the official government information, so shouldn’t count against reasons to move to Spain. Once you’ve obtained all the necessary documents you’ll need, you’ll have more freedom once in Spain to do things like buying property.
Finance
A major consideration will inevitably be finances when moving to Spain. Following Brexit, you can still use your UK bank account to make payments in Spain, as well as make cash withdrawals there. Any additional fees and charges should be made clear to you by your bank provider.
Once you’ve registered as a resident in Spain, you’ll be given a foreigners identification number. This will allow you to open a bank account in Spain, as well as buy property.
If you receive benefits or a pension, you’ll need to tell the relevant government office that you’re moving to Spain. Once you’ve done this, certain benefits can still be claimed when in Spain. If you’re eligible, benefits such as maternity allowances and statutory sick pay can still be provided. See the government website for a more comprehensive list of benefits, as well as accurate information about the countries to which this applies. A UK State Pension can still be claimed even if you’ve moved to an EU country, and will increase each year in line with the UK rate. Social security contributions made in Spain can be used to meet the qualifying conditions for a UK pension.
If you’re wanting to buy property in Spain, be sure to check the government’s website for a check list of the relevant documents you’ll need to be able to do so. The government also recommends having advice from an independent lawyer who specialises in Spanish land law. Ultimately though, it is possible to purchase property if the correct procedures are followed, which is most easily done with professional guidance.
Climate
Spain’s climate alone is a reason for many to make the move. With a Mediterranean climate, it means that the summers are longer and hotter than those in the UK. They’re also drier, meaning there’s less chance of rainy days and instead you’ll have a much greater chance of getting to the beach to cool off in the sea. The winters are mild rather than freezing, and it tends to rain more in the north. Rain tends to fall most often in autumn and spring elsewhere in the country. There is a diverse climate overall across the country, so depending on your preferences for how hot you want your summers to be, you can choose a different part of the country.
Culture
The Spanish culture is rich and diverse, which is celebrated across the country in various festivals and holidays. These vary in different areas, depending on the history of the town or village and the time of year. For example, there’s the more religious and elaborate Semana Santa, which takes place in many of the bigger cities. And in Buñol, there’s the annual Tomatina tomato fight! The most iconic festival is Carnival, which happens in the cities. Each city has a different theme, so if you’re moving there be sure to visit a different one each year for a unique experience every time.
Throughout the year there are shows to see across the country. There’s also plenty of museums and art galleries to learn about both historic and contemporary Spain, so that you can fully immerse yourself in Spanish culture. A particularly great part about Spanish culture is the daily siestas, which happen in the afternoon between 2pm and 4pm. This is perfect for the summer season, when you can take a break in the sun and even take a dip in the sea to cool off, rather than remaining at your desk.
There’s plenty of reasons why moving to Spain is a good idea. Even the official processes and documents are simple with the correct advice and guidance. For the most accurate information, always check the government website.
