Relocating can be the best decision that you make, or it can be the worst decision, it all depends on you and whether you actually plan your move to Spain. You cannot just decide to move to another country without thinking about work, the language, where you are going to live etc. Many people are overly optimistic and think that everything will just fall into place once they arrive in Spain.
These people end up moving back home again. Imagine relocation to another country with no job or income, eating through your savings, putting stress on your family and ending up moving back home without any money. This happens to so many people every year but it can so easily be avoided.
Here are our top tips for relocation to Spain:
1. Research – Find out everything you can about Spain and in particular the region you are interested in. Read books, surf the internet, join expat forums, register with estate agents to get an idea of property prices and styles, visit exhibitions and shows on moving to Spain and Spanish life.
2. Income – If you are a pensioner, then you will have an income and your pension will go far in Spain. Otherwise, what are you going to do for an income. Don't relocate to Spain without a source of income. Find a job first or start a business first. Don't just assume that you can make money from doing bed and breakfast without finding out if there is a market. Do your homework!
3. Visit your chosen area of Spain a few times to see if it matches your expectations. Does it have the facilities you need?
Some people are happy living in expat communities or urbanizations, others prefer traditional Spanish villages – what suits you?
4. Education - Are there good schools for your children? If you have teenage children, are there international schools where they can be taught in their own language and learn Spanish too? Does the school have places?
5. Think about what style of property would meet your needs. Do you really need a pool? Pools can be expensive to maintain and how many days of the year would you use it? Would a property in a community with a communal pool and facilities be better?
6. Budget – Relocation always costs more than you think. Get quotes for everything and remember, if you are buying a property, to budget about 10% of the cost for fees and taxes.
7. Learn Spanish – Learning even just a little Spanish can help you with your new life. There are many audio courses, books and online resources to help.
8. Get a team of professionals around you – Hire a good abogado (lawyer) for your house purchase, use a gestor to help you with bureaucracy and seek the services of a tax adviser to help you with your annual tax return.
9. Healthcare – Will you be covered in Spain? Sort out cover before you move. Check with the social security office in your home country before moving to obtain the appropriate forms and to get advice.
10. Take your time – This is one of the biggest decisions you will make in your life, don't rush it. Check everything out and use checklists from books and websites to help you with your relocation.
These are just a few tips for relocating to Spain successfully.
