Moving to Spain: An Expat's Guide

Why Spain is Still a Popular Choice

Quality of Life

Spain consistently ranks high in global quality of life indexes due to its healthy lifestyle, affordable healthcare, and strong sense of community. You’ll find a slower pace of life in many cities and towns which contributes to lower stress levels and better overall well-being. In places like Valencia, Málaga, and smaller coastal towns, people often walk to local markets, gather in plazas, and enjoy fresh meals with neighbors.

Daily life encourages social interaction and a sense of belonging, which can make a big difference when you're settling in a new country. The country also invests heavily in public transportation and infrastructure, so you don’t have to rely on a car to get around.

Climate, Regional Differences & Terrain

Spain offers a wide range of climates and landscapes which gives you more than one lifestyle to choose from. If you enjoy warm weather year-round, the Costa del Sol region offers over 300 sunny days annually and remains mild even in winter. Northern Spain, in contrast, has lush green hills and cooler, rainy weather that resembles parts of Ireland or northern France.

Inland areas like Madrid experience hot summers and cold winters, while islands such as Tenerife offer spring-like weather almost every month. The terrain varies just as much, from the beaches of Alicante to the Pyrenees mountains, providing opportunities for everything from surfing to skiing. Whether you prefer a seaside apartment or a countryside home, Spain gives you multiple environments to consider.

Visa and Residency Rules

Tourist visa rules and duration

If you're from the US, Canada, or most non-EU countries, you can stay in Spain on a tourist visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This rule applies across the entire Schengen Zone which means time spent in France, Germany, or Italy counts toward that limit. Overstaying can result in fines or difficulty re-entering Spain or other European countries in the future.

This makes it important to plan your timeline carefully if you're using a tourist visa as a first step toward living in Spain. Short-term stays are ideal for scouting cities, researching neighborhoods, and getting a feel for what daily life might look like.

Long-term Residency Options

Several long-term residency options are available depending on your purpose and financial situation.

• Retirement Visa:: If you're retired, the non-lucrative visa allows you to live in Spain without working, as long as you meet the monthly income requirements—currently around €2,400 for a single applicant and more for dependents.
• Golden Visa: For those planning to invest, the Golden Visa program grants residency to individuals who invest at least €500,000 in Spanish real estate.
• Remote Work Visa: Digital nomads can apply for the recently approved remote work visa which provides legal residence to those working for foreign companies.

After five years of legal residency, you can apply for permanent status, and eventually, Spanish citizenship after ten years. Each path has its own advantages, so it helps to align the visa with your lifestyle goals and financial readiness.

Required Documents

The application process for long-term residence typically includes a valid passport, proof of financial means, private or public health insurance, and a clean criminal record from your home country. You'll also need a certified medical certificate that confirms you do not have any infectious diseases which must be issued within 90 days of submission.

If you’re applying through investment or retirement, expect to submit bank statements, pension documents, or real estate purchase agreements. All non-Spanish documents must be translated and officially apostilled, which adds time and cost to the process. Preparing your paperwork early and verifying document requirements with your nearest Spanish consulate helps you avoid delays.

Spanish Visa Application Fees

Application fees vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality but most long-term visa applications cost between €60 and €400. Yes, that is a wide range.

• Example, a non-lucrative visa application submitted from the United States typically costs around €123, though consulates may charge slightly different amounts.
• If you apply for a Golden Visa, there are additional fees for real estate transactions, legal assistance, and property registration.
• Renewing your visa or applying for permanent residency also involves fees and ranges from €15 to €80.

It’s important to factor these costs into your budget as they are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

Renewal Periods

Most temporary residence permits are issued for one year and then renewed in two-year increments. For instance, the non-lucrative visa is initially valid for 12 months and must be renewed before it expires, followed by two-year extensions. It's important to maintain continuous residence, which generally means spending at least six months per year in Spain. Missing that threshold could reset your residency timeline, so tracking your days in-country becomes essential.

Monthly Cost of Living in Spain

What You Can Expect to Spend Each Month

Spain offers a comfortable lifestyle at a price point lower than much of Western Europe. A solo expat living in a coastal city like Valencia or Malaga can expect to spend around €1,000 to €1,600 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic leisure. In cities like Madrid or Barcelona, budgets typically rise to €1,800 or more due to elevated housing costs.

Couples benefit from shared housing and utility expenses, and many live well on a combined monthly budget of €1,800 to €2,400 outside major metro areas. Popular expat hubs include Alicante, Granada, and Bilbao for their cultural appeal and affordability.

Spain vs. the U.S., UK, and Canada

Spain continues to be an attractive destination for those earning in stronger currencies like the dollar or pound. Your money stretches further when it comes to daily essentials and rent.

Public transport, fresh food markets, and local wines are significantly cheaper than in North America. Healthcare and prescription costs are also modest by comparison. Spain remains a solid choice for retirees and digital nomads seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.

What Rent Costs Across Spanish Cities

Rental prices vary widely depending on the location and proximity to tourist zones:

• Madrid (central): €900–€1,500 for a 1-bedroom flat
• Barcelona or Valencia: €750–€1,200 for similar accommodations
• Smaller cities (Granada, Cádiz, Murcia): €500–€800 per month

Renting furnished apartments typically comes at a premium. Standard leases often request a 1-2 month deposit and sometimes a Spanish bank account or local income proof, although options for foreigners are growing more flexible.

Utilities and Internet in Spain

Monthly utilities includes electricity, water, heating, and garbage and generally runs between €80 and €130 for a modest apartment. Air conditioning can bump this higher in the summer, most notably in southern regions.

Internet access is widely available and relatively inexpensive. Fiber-optic connections range from €30 to €40 per month and are often bundled with basic TV or mobile plans. Coverage is strong even in smaller towns, though remote mountain areas may vary.

Eating Out, Groceries, and Local Fun

A typical lunch menu at a café or neighborhood restaurant, the famous menú del día, costs around €9 to €14. Dinner with drinks at a mid-range restaurant usually falls between €20 and €30 per person.

Grocery bills for a single person average €40–€70 weekly, depending on eating habits. Local markets offer fresh produce, seafood, and meats at competitive prices, especially compared to supermarkets in Northern Europe.

Cinema tickets typically range from €6 to €9. Flamenco shows, local festivals, and street events are either free or modestly priced. Spain’s lifestyle is centered around community. This means there’s often plenty to enjoy without spending much.

Comfortable Living Budgets in Spain

Living well in Spain doesn’t require an extravagant budget. A single person in a secondary city like Seville or Zaragoza can enjoy a full, active life on €1,200 to €1,600 per month.

Couples renting a one-bedroom apartment and eating out occasionally can maintain a comfortable lifestyle for €1,900 to €2,400 monthly. Choosing areas like Galicia, Extremadura, or the Canary Islands can lower costs even further while still offering sunshine, fresh food, and strong internet for working remotely.

Best Places to Live in Spain

Popular Expat-Friendly Cities or Towns

Spain's major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Malaga are popular among expatriates due to their vibrant cultures, employment opportunities, and established international communities. Madrid, the capital, offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with neighborhoods like Salamanca and Chamartín providing upscale living options.

Barcelona attracts those interested in art and architecture, with areas like Eixample and Gràcia being particularly appealing. Valencia combines beach life with urban amenities, and neighborhoods such as Ruzafa and El Carmen are favored for their cultural scenes. Malaga, on the Costa del Sol, is known for its pleasant climate and has neighborhoods like La Malagueta and El Limonar that are popular among expatriates.

Urban vs. Coastal vs. Rural Living

Urban living in Spain offers access to a wide range of services, cultural events, and public transportation. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona provide diverse job markets and educational institutions. Coastal living, found in cities like Valencia and Malaga, offers a more relaxed lifestyle with access to beaches and a milder climate.

Rural living in Spain's countryside provides tranquility and lower living costs but may lack some amenities found in urban areas. Each setting caters to different preferences, whether one prioritizes convenience, leisure, or serenity.

Family-Friendly Areas

For families, neighborhoods with good schools, parks, and safety are paramount. In Madrid, areas like Chamartín and Retiro are known for their family-oriented environments. Barcelona's Sarrià-Sant Gervasi offers a suburban feel with reputable schools.

Valencia's Campanar and Benimaclet are appreciated for their community atmosphere and amenities suitable for children. Malaga's Pedregalejo and El Palo provide a coastal setting with family-friendly services.

Community Vibe, Access to Amenities, and Infrastructure

Spain's cities are known for their strong community vibes, with local festivals and markets fostering social interaction. Access to amenities such as healthcare, education, and shopping centers is generally good, especially in urban areas.

Public transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with metro systems in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and extensive bus and train networks connecting various regions. This infrastructure supports both daily commuting and travel across the country.

Luxury & Middle-class Neighborhoods

Safety & Crime Rate

Spain is considered a safe country with crime rates varying by region. According to the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, the overall crime rate has been on a downward trend in recent years. Urban areas may experience higher instances of petty crimes like pickpocketing, particularly in tourist-heavy zones.

However, violent crime remains relatively low compared to other European countries. Residents often report feeling safe in their neighborhoods which contributes to a high quality of life. Be that as it may, there are some not so desirable areas.

Neighborhoods to Avoid in Spain’s Major Cities

Conversely, some neighborhoods may be less desirable due to higher crime rates or lack of services.

• Madrid – Puente de Vallecas & Villaverde:
  • Both districts have struggled with high unemployment rates and a rise in petty theft and street crime.
  • While gentrification is underway, certain blocks still feel unsafe after dark.
  • Residents report occasional issues with drug activity and gang presence.
• Barcelona – El Raval & parts of La Mina:
  • El Raval has a growing arts scene but also a reputation for pickpocketing and street-level drug trade.
  • La Mina, in the Sant Adrià area, is known for long-term socio-economic issues and low police presence.
  • Tourists are often advised to stay alert, especially at night and near metro stations.
• Valencia – parts of Orriols & La Coma:
  • Both neighborhoods are undergoing redevelopment, but still face high crime rates and limited public services.
  • Reports include youth gang activity and drug-related incidents.
  • Visitors and new residents might find these areas less welcoming and lacks infrastructure.
• Seville – Las Tres Mil Viviendas (Polígono Sur):
  • Considered one of Spain’s most marginalized areas with entrenched poverty and crime.
  • Known for frequent police operations and very limited economic opportunity.
  • Locals often advise avoiding this district altogether.
• Malaga – Palma-Palmilla:
  • This area has long dealt with drug trafficking issues and underfunded schools and services.
  • Residents have expressed concerns about personal safety, especially at night.
  • Despite efforts at urban renewal, it remains one of the most avoided neighborhoods by expats and tourists.

Healthcare & Insurance

Working or Retiring in Spain

Work Permits and Legal employment options

Non-EU residents need a valid work visa or permit before accepting a job offer in Spain and requires sponsorship from a Spanish employer. Madrid and Barcelona offer the most opportunities for professionals in tech, finance, and education.

• The highly skilled visa is geared toward professionals in engineering, science, and IT roles.
• Language academies in urban areas regularly sponsor English teachers, especially in the fall.
• Most work visas must be initiated by the employer and approved before entering Spain.

Common Jobs or Remote Work Opportunities

Remote workers often choose cities like Valencia or Malaga for their stable internet, international coworking spaces, and lower cost of living. Many expats earn income abroad in digital roles such as software development, marketing, or online consulting.

• Tech workers and creatives are common in neighborhoods like Poblenou in Barcelona and Ruzafa in Valencia.
• Spain now offers a digital nomad visa allowing non-EU residents to live in the country while working remotely for non-Spanish companies.
• Some expats start part-time English tutoring or editing gigs to supplement online income sources.

Business or Freelancing Requirements

Starting a business or freelancing legally requires registering as an “autónomo,” which means paying into Spain’s social security system and filing monthly or quarterly taxes. This allows you to offer services locally or remotely within the EU.

• Initial paperwork includes a tax ID (NIE), a social security number, and registration with the local tax office.
• Monthly fees for autónomos start around €80 during the first year and increase to approximately €300 later.
• Many freelancers use a gestor to help manage filings and avoid fines for missed reporting deadlines.

Retirement Visa in Spain

The non-lucrative visa is the most common choice for retirees and allows you to live in Spain without working, provided you meet minimum income requirements. Areas like the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol attract large retiree communities due to the warm climate, reliable healthcare, and vibrant expat support groups.

• The visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed every two years thereafter.
• Many retirees choose locations like Javea or Marbella for walkability, English-speaking doctors, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
• The application must be submitted at the Spanish consulate in your home country before arrival.

Income Requirements for Int'l Retirees

To qualify for a non-lucrative visa, retirees must show proof of income or savings equal to at least 400% of the Spanish IPREM, which is roughly €2,400 per month in 2025. This amount increases with dependents and must be documented with bank statements or pension verification when applying from abroad.

• Many retirees use rental income, investment dividends, or pensions to meet the threshold.
• Applicants must also show they have private health insurance with coverage across Spain.
• Consulates in the US may have slightly different document requirements, so early preparation is important.

Bringing Your Family or Pets

Schools for children (local vs. international)

Public schools in Spain are free and offer full-day instruction in Spanish or regional languages, making them ideal for younger children planning to stay long-term. International schools in cities like Madrid and Málaga offer instruction in English or other languages and are better suited for short-term expat assignments or older students adjusting later in life.

• Public schools follow Spain’s national curriculum and rank well across EU benchmarks.
• International schools often offer the IB or UK curriculum and range from €5,000 to €15,000 per year.

Childcare and Education Costs

Public preschool is affordable, especially with resident subsidies, while private daycare in larger cities costs more. Many expat families begin with private care during the transition period, then move their children into the public system once settled.

• Public childcare ranges from €100 to €300 monthly, and private options in cities like Barcelona can reach €500.
• After-school activities are widely available and usually add around €100 to a family’s monthly budget.

Family-friendly Areas

Neighborhoods like Alcobendas near Madrid or Sant Cugat near Barcelona attract expat families thanks to parks, good schools, and safe streets. Coastal towns offer a quieter pace of life with affordable rents and bilingual education.

• Three-bedroom rentals range from €700 to €1,200 depending on location and proximity to schools.
• Low crime rates, green spaces, and walkability make these areas practical for families settling long-term.

Traveling with Pets:

Spain allows pets from outside the EU, provided they have a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a signed health certificate from a vet within 10 days of arrival. Pets don’t require quarantine if all documents are presented upon entry.

• Total costs for travel prep and documents typically range between €200 and €400 per pet.
• Airlines like Iberia and Vueling allow small pets in the cabin, which simplifies travel for owners.

Learning the Spanish Culture

Language Barriers

Language difficulties in Spain depend on where you land, with English more common in tourist zones than rural villages. In Málaga or Barcelona, you’ll hear English at shops and clinics, easing life for those new to Spanish. Smaller towns like Cuenca expect basic Spanish for daily tasks, pushing you to learn faster.

Younger locals often speak some English from school while older generations rarely speak English. This affects interactions at markets, banks, and recreational areas. You’ll adapt quicker in expat hubs, although knowing key phrases opens doors everywhere.

Best Ways to Learn

The best ways to learn Spanish in Spain include classes, phone/computer apps, and practice, tailored to your pace as an expat or retiree. Local language schools in Seville or Granada charge $150 to $300 monthly for group lessons, immersing you in grammar and conversation. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel, free or $10 monthly, suit digital nomads grinding on the go. Chatting with neighbors or joining intercambio meetups, where locals trade Spanish for English, builds fluency fast. You simply pick a method matching your schedule and blend the structure with real-world use.

Spanish Etiquette and do’s & don’ts

Do's

• Do take the siesta into account as many shops close in the afternoon
• Do eat late with lunch typically starting around 2 PM and dinner after 9 PM is common.
• Do respect regional identities. Catalonia, the Basque Country, and others value their distinct culture and language.
• Do enjoy tapas the traditional way. It's shared among friends while standing at the bar.
• Do engage in small talk, social conversations about food, family, and football are welcome.
• Do tip modestly; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated but not mandatory.
• Do expect lively conversation. Interrupting or overlapping speech is part of the rhythm, not rudeness.
• Do greet store staff with a simple “Hola” or “Buenos días” when entering. It’s polite and expected.
• Barcelona
• Do acknowledge Catalan identity. Learning a few phrases like “Bon dia” (good morning) shows cultural awareness.
• Do respect regional pride. Catalans identify as Catalan first, Spanish second.
• Madrid
• Do expect a more cosmopolitan and punctual business culture. Madrid is Spain’s financial center.
• Do enjoy after-work socializing over tapas and vermouth. It’s common to bond after hours with colleagues.
• Do use polite Spanish greetings like “Buenos días” and “Encantado/a” when meeting new people.

Don'ts

• Don’t expect businesses to be open all day as many close from 2–5 PM and reopen in the evening.
• Don’t rush through meals. Dining is a social ritual meant to be savored, not hurried.
• Don’t assume Spanish culture is the same throughout the country. Regional variation is significant.
• Don’t wear beachwear away from the beach even in coastal cities, it’s seen as inappropriate.
• Don’t schedule work meetings or errands during major football matches. Many people will be unavailable.
• Don’t criticize traditions like bullfighting in casual conversation, it’s a sensitive cultural topic.
• Don’t call the entire country “Spain” when in regions like Catalonia or the Basque Country. Be respectful of local identities.
• Don’t expect lines to be strictly followed. Queues can be informal and loosely observed, especially at bars.

Holidays & Traditions

• Día de los Reyes Magos (January 6): Celebrated more than Christmas in many parts of Spain, with parades and gifts honoring the Three Wise Men.
• Las Fallas (March): Valencia’s fire festival with massive satirical sculptures that are burned in a spectacular citywide celebration.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week - March/April): A deeply religious celebration in cities like Seville and Málaga featuring elaborate processions with floats and penitents.
• Feria de Abril (April/May): Seville’s iconic spring fair full of flamenco, horse parades, casetas (tents), and late-night dancing.
• El Rocío Pilgrimage (May/June): A spiritual journey to the village of El Rocío in Andalusia with colorful caravans, flamenco, and religious devotion.
• San Fermín (July): Known for the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, followed by traditional parades, music, and fireworks.
• La Tomatina (August): Held in Buñol, near Valencia, this famous tomato throwing festival draws thousands for a day of food-fueled fun.
• La Mercè (September): Barcelona’s largest street festival featuring human towers (castellers), concerts, fireworks, and Catalan traditions.

Other ways to immerse yourself in Spanish culture:

• Join a flamenco performance in Andalusia or take a beginner’s dance class to feel the rhythm firsthand.
• Try regional specialties like paella in Valencia, jamón ibérico in Salamanca, and tapas in Granada.
• Participate in a local fiesta in a small town — nearly every village has its own saint day celebration with music, food, and dancing.

Transportation

Public transport options & costs

Spain’s public transport works well for digital nomads, expats, retirees, or anyone enjoying a staycation. Monthly passes cost $30 to $60 depending on the city, giving unlimited access to metros, buses, and trams. Renfe trains make regional travel easy, with trips like Barcelona to Valencia costing $20–$40. Madrid’s metro system, with 12 lines and 300+ stations, ranks among Europe’s best, helping you avoid car ownership. If staying mobile is key, major cities offer the best convenience.

Buying a Car in Spain

Owning a car gives you freedom to explore. New compact models start at $15,000, and used cars run as low as $5,000 on Coches.net. Importing a car takes over two months and adds 10% duty, 21% VAT, and $200 in fees. You’ll need an NIE number and insurance through companies like Mapfre. Many choose local cars to skip the hassle. Your decision depends on how far you’ll drive and how fast you want the keys.

Driving rules and license conversion

EU drivers can use their licenses, but U.S., Canadian, and UK visitors must convert to a Spanish license within six months. The switch costs $100–$300 through a local school. Highway speeds max out at 120 km/h, dropping to 50 in towns. Roundabouts and strict 0.5 blood alcohol limits are common. Some tolls, like the $10 stretch from Málaga to Granada, add to costs. Early license conversion keeps your travel plans smooth and legal.

Ride-sharing and Taxis

Uber and Cabify work well in big cities like Madrid and Barcelona, with rides averaging $10. Taxis cost $1.20/km plus a $3 base fare and are bookable via apps like Free Now. These services cost more than public transport, but they save time—especially after metros close at night. In places like Alicante, ride-sharing is a smart choice for short trips when speed matters more than savings.

Banking and Money Matters

Opening a Local Bank Account

• Required documents: You’ll need your passport, proof of address in Spain, and your NIE (foreigner identification number). If you're employed or self-employed, banks may also ask for proof of income.
• Account setup: CaixaBank, BBVA, and Santander have branches throughout Spain. Some require you to visit in person, especially for your first account. N26 and Revolut are quicker online options to open but may offer it only to residents.
• Banking benefits: A Spanish bank account allows you to pay rent, utilities, and local taxes with fewer fees. You’ll also receive a Spanish IBAN which is required for setting up direct debits.
• Language support: In larger cities and expat areas, some branches offer English-speaking staff. Most mobile apps have English versions but customer service in English may be limited.

Sending Money Internationally

• Transfer options: You can use your bank, but most expats prefer platforms like Wise, OFX, or Remitly for speed and better exchange rates. Western Union and MoneyGram are also available for cash pickups.
• Cost comparison: Traditional banks often charge higher fees and use less favorable rates. Digital services are faster and more transparent with costs and timing.
• What you’ll need: Your recipient’s IBAN and BIC/SWIFT code. For larger transfers, you may need to verify the source of your funds and complete additional identification steps.
• Timelines: Eurozone transfers usually take one business day. Outside of the EU, expect up to five business days depending on the method and destination.

Currency Exchange (Cambio)

• Preferred payment methods: Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Spain. Visa and Mastercard work nearly everywhere. American Express is less common outside major cities or tourist areas.
• Avoiding fees: Using a Spanish-issued card helps you avoid foreign transaction charges. Some travel-focused cards from your home country may also waive these fees if you're visiting short-term.
• Cash still relevant: Many local shops, markets, and cafés still prefer cash, particularly in small towns. ATMs are easy to find and usually offer an English interface.
• Digital payments: Contactless payments and mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Bizum are increasingly accepted, especially in urban areas and supermarkets.

Taxes and Legal Services

Common Challenges

Homesickness and isolation

Feeling cut off creeps in when you’re missing familiar faces or routines. It's a reality that can hit hard. Holidays like Thanksgiving, not celebrated here, or time zones making calls tricky can deepen that sense of distance. You’ll find relief by joining expat groups in Málaga or Valencia, where weekly coffee meetups bring familiar faces into your life. Retirees often turn to local clubs like book readings or gardening sessions to build new bonds. Creating routines and seeking out these connections lifts the weight, helping you feel at home over time.

Cultural Adjustment

Adapting to Spain’s ways challenges you with dinners at 10 p.m. or shops shutting down for siesta, a big shift from what you might expect from a major country. People accustomed to strict schedules might find buses arriving five minutes late or meetings starting casually a bit jarring. You’ll ease into it by enjoying long lunches in Seville, a habit many grow to appreciate for its laid-back charm. Nomads can adjust work hours to fit this rhythm, syncing with clients later in the day. Observing and embracing these differences turns them into something you’ll value.

Bureaucracy

Dealing with Spain’s slow processes frustrates everyone especially when residency renewals drag on for months. Locals and newcomers vent about long lines at immigration offices or confusing NIE instructions, a frequent topic on forums like Expatica.

Retirees hit snags with pension verification delays while others deal with visa rejections that throw off plans. You’ll hear locals complain about tax filings too often outsourcing to gestores to cut through the mess. Starting early and getting local assistance helps you avoid these pitfalls, keeping your move on course.

Language frustrations

Struggling with Spanish shows up when you’re ordering at a rural bar or figuring out utility bills, a hurdle that tests your patience. English gets you through in tourist areas but small-town officials or repairmen rarely speak it. This can leave you stuck mid-conversation and can become quite awkward or agreeing to an expense you didn't know about.

Some miss deadlines due to misread contracts while others falter at doctor visits without basic words. You can smooth this out with apps like Google Translate or weekly classes, turning those early stumbles into steady progress. This effort pays off and makes daily life less daunting.

Final Tips Before You Move

What to pack (and what not to)

Packing smart for Spain depends on where you’re headed, a choice you’ll face no matter your plans. Light clothes work for summer heat, while layers handle cooler northern winters keeping you comfortable year-round. You’ll need adapters for Type F plugs to power laptops or devices, and sturdy shoes manage cobblestone streets in Granada without trouble.

Retirees should bring three months of prescription meds since local refills take time to arrange. Leave bulky appliances behind. Spain’s 230V system differs from the US. Skip heavy winter gear unless you’re bound for Galicia as buying basics like towels in Spain saves you space and money.

Resources and expat forums

Get some advice from fellow nationals will help you adjust better. Expatica offers detailed guides on taxes and schools while InterNations sets up meetups in Barcelona for everyone to join.

Americans find visa tips on SpainExpat.com, Canadians check Canadians Abroad, Brits use British Expats, and Aussies rely on Advance Australia for specific advice.

You can browse these free sites or pay $20 yearly for deeper access and connect with others who’ve made the move. This network gives you a head start and grounds your plans in real experiences.