So you are thinking of retiring to Spain? Where do you start? There is a lot to consider when moving to this beautiful corner of the Mediterranean, so we have put together a checklist to help you focus on what needs to be done to make the big move as easy as possible.
Living arrangements
Do you have a property to sell in your home country?
Will you be buying in Spain?
Will you need a mortgage?
Would you prefer to rent for a while first?
Living environment
Have you considered where you will live?
Would you prefer to be near other expats?
Do you prefer a more Spanish environment?
Would you like to live near the coast/airports/transport links?
Finances
Do you know how to protect your finances?
Do you have a Spanish bank account?
Do you receive a pension?
How will you access that pension in Spain?
Have you considered money transfers?
Healthcare
Are you entitled to Spanish healthcare?
Are you entitled to transferable healthcare from your home country?
Will you need private healthcare?
Do you have any pre-existing conditions to consider?
Lifestyle
Do you want a quiet life or prefer to party the night away?
Would you like to be close to clubs and other facilities?
Do you play sports? If so are there facilities available?
Would you like to live in a town or in the country? Are you prepared for possible isolation or noise?
Legalities
Are you aware of the paperwork needed to live in Spain?
Do you understand Spanish tax requirements?
Do you have an NIE number?
Do you meet the residency requirements regarding income?
Driving
Are you up to date with Spanish driving law?
Do you plan to bring a car from your home country? If so do you understand the matriculation laws?
Do you understand the requirements for changing your driving licence to a Spanish one?
Are you aware of the requirements for MOTs (ITVs), insurance and road tax in Spain?
We hope this list will help you on your way to your new life in Spain. Naturally there are other individual issues to consider too, but these points are among the main ones that everyone retiring abroad should take into consideration before taking the plunge.
The Residencia Estates team is able to give you advice and offer information on the above topics, so don’t be afraid to ask!