106: Dreaming of Spain? Your complete step-by-step guide to moving to Spain
Why Moving to Spain Appeals to So Many
So, you’re thinking about moving to Spain? Spain is one of the top destinations for people moving abroad — and for good reason. Great weather, affordable living, and strong expat communities make it an attractive and popular choice. So what are all the steps you need to take to make it happen?
This guide walks through the main steps to move to Spain, from choosing your visa to setting up life after you arrive. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Choose the Right Visa
Spain offers several visa options depending on your situation. The most common for non-EU citizens are:
- Non-lucrative visa: for retirees or remote workers who can prove passive income.
- Digital nomad visa: for remote employees or freelancers earning income outside Spain.
- Work visa: if you’ve been hired by a Spanish company.
- Student visa: for people studying or training in Spain.
Each visa has its own income and documentation requirements, so be sure to review those carefully before applying.
Step 2: Research the Best Places to Live
Spain has a wide range of cities and lifestyles:
- Madrid – business-oriented, fast-paced.
- Barcelona – creative, international, and coastal.
- Valencia – smaller, affordable, and relaxed.
- Granada, Málaga, Alicante – popular with digital nomads and retirees.
Consider cost of living, weather, transportation, and community before deciding. And if you’re really torn between which city is best for you, go listen to episode 104: Before you move abroad: Take this one trip first
Step 3: Estimate Your Cost of Living
Typical monthly costs for one person in Spain:
- Rent: €700–€1,200 depending on location
- Utilities and internet: €100–€150
- Groceries: €250–€350
- Transportation: €40–€60
- Health insurance: €50–€100
Costs are higher in Madrid and Barcelona, and lower in southern or inland cities.
Step 4: Find Housing
It’s best to start with short-term housing for the first month while you look for something long-term. Use websites like Idealista, Fotocasa, or Spotahome. Always visit an apartment in person before signing or sending payment. Scams are common in big cities and it’s SO hard to know what a place actually looks and feels like without seeing it in person.
Step 5: Handle the Legal Paperwork
Once in Spain, complete these key steps:
- Get your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) — your foreigner ID number.
- Register your address (empadronamiento) at the local town hall.
- Set up a Spanish bank account.
- Apply for your TIE card (residence card) if applicable.
These steps are mandatory for most long-term stays.
Step 6: Prepare Financially Before Moving
Save at least 3–6 months of living expenses before moving to Spain.
Keep emergency funds in an accessible international account, and notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
Step 7: Build Your Local Network
Join expat and local Facebook groups, attend language exchanges, and connect with others in your city.
Having a network helps you settle faster and understand how daily life works in Spain.
Step 8: Learn the Language
Knowing basic Spanish makes daily tasks much easier — from grocery shopping to paperwork.
Enroll in local classes or use apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or italki before you arrive.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Spain takes preparation, but it’s completely achievable with the right plan.
Start by identifying your visa path, budgeting realistically, and visiting potential cities if possible.
🎧 Want to dive deeper before your move abroad?
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