Living in Spain: A Guide To Moving To Spain As An Expat

Renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and enviable lifestyle, Spain stands out as a top choice for expats seeking a new adventure. Our recent ranking places Spain among the best countries to live in the world, highlighting its exceptional quality of life—from the sun-soaked beaches of the Costa del Sol to the bustling streets of Madrid and Barcelona. And, with the introduction of the Spanish digital nomad visa, remote workers have even more reason to consider Spain as their next destination.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Spain, from navigating the local culture to finding the perfect place to call home. Whether you’re drawn by the sunny climate, the rich cultural tapestry, or the promise of a healthier lifestyle, Spain is ready to welcome you with open arms.

This guide on living in Spain covers

1. What to expect from living in Spain as an expat
2. Cost of living in Spain
3. Accommodation in Spain
4. Visas, jobs and working in Spain
5. Bank accounts and taxes for expats living in Spain
6. Healthcare and insurance in Spain
7. Education in Spain
8. Your handy ‘moving to Spain’ checklist

Steps in a street in Calpe, Alicante, painted with the colours of the Spanish flag // GETTY IMAGES

Life in Spain: What to expect from living in Spain as an expat

What is life in Spain like?

Spain’s natural geography is incredibly diverse, offering everything from sunny beaches and rugged mountains to rolling countryside and cosmopolitan cities. The country enjoys a Mediterranean climate along its southern coast, with hot summers and mild winters, and an Atlantic climate along its northern coast, which is humid and mild.

Politically, Spain is divided into 17 autonomous regions, each with its own unique culture, history, and traditions. This includes island regions including the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, plus two autonomous cities on the north coast of Africa, Ceuta and Melilla. Each region of Spain has significant autonomy in areas such as education, health, and regional governance, reflecting the country’s rich diversity. 

Modern Spain is a democratic constitutional monarchy, with a parliamentary system and a history shaped by both regional identities and central governance. Pedro Sánchez is the current President of Spain and has been in office since June 2018.

Looking for health insurance in Spain?

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Culture in Spain

For those looking to make Spain their home, whether for a short-term stay or a more permanent move, the country’s warm and welcoming culture makes it one of the friendliest places for expats. With a combination of vibrant fiestas and laid-back café culture, Spain offers a rich and fulfilling experience for those eager to immerse themselves in its way of life.

Spaniards place a strong emphasis on community and social connections, and this is reflected in their daily routines. Long, leisurely meals with family and friends are an important aspect of Spanish life, often centred around shared plates of tapas and accompanied by lively conversation.

The importance of socialising is also evident in Spain’s many festivals, from the lively streets of La Tomatina to the religious processions of Semana Santa. These events are more than just celebrations – they are integral parts of the cultural fabric that bring Spanish people together.

The cultural diversity across the regions is another highlight of life in Spain. Each autonomous community has its own distinct customs, cuisine, and even languages, such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque, adding layers of richness to the Spanish experience.

When it comes to religion, Spain is traditionally a Catholic country. Today, 52% of Spaniards call themselves Catholic, with 16.8% practising and 35% non-practising. However, despite this, Spain has become very liberal in its ideology throughout the modern period, having legalised both abortion and gay marriage, thus making it a very welcoming country to those from all walks of life.

What language do they speak in Spain?

The official language in Spain is Castilian Spanish, which is spoken by the majority of citizens. However, some autonomous regions have their own official language in addition to Castilian Spanish. 

Here’s how many people speak the regional languages in Spain:

Language

Percentage speakers*

Castilian Spanish

93.92%

Catalan

15.67%

Galician

5.64%

Basque

1.26%

*Source: Language Knowledge

As an expat moving to Spain, learning Castilian Spanish should be a high priority. While it might be possible to get by speaking English in larger cities such as Madrid or Barcelona, learning at least basic conversational Spanish will make your new life in Spain a lot easier to navigate.

Luckily, Spanish is one of the easiest languages to learn as a foreigner, containing far fewer words than the English language. With a bit of immersion, you shouldn’t have any trouble slipping into the Spanish tongue.

What are the best and easiest languages to learn?

We share some tips for expats learning a new language

Working life in Spain

It’s fair to say that the Spanish have a fairly relaxed attitude to the workplace – particularly when it comes to timekeeping. This can come as a culture shock to some expats and can be especially frustrating if you come from a country with a fast-paced working culture. 

Spanish working culture emphasises strong personal relationships. Building trust is crucial, and meetings often begin with casual conversation. Hierarchies within the workplace are respected, however and decision-making can take time, reflecting a preference for consensus and thoroughness.

Perhaps the most recognisable aspect of Spanish working culture is their commitment to work-life balance. Being a very family-orientated culture, work-life balance is highly valued, with long lunch breaks and a slower pace of life being common. Many businesses close during the afternoon for a “siesta”, though this is gradually becoming less common in urban areas.

How many expats live in Spain?

As of 2024, there were 8,915,831 foreign-born people living in Spain, making up 18.3% of the population. 

These are the most common foreign nationalities living in Spain:

Country of origin

Number of expats living in Spain*

Morocco

893,953

Romania

629,755

Colombia

453,911

Italy

301,791

United Kingdom

284,037

Venezuela

278,159

*Study from 2023, Statista

Expat populations are growing around the world

We look at the booming expat populations

The cost of living in Spain

The cost of living in Spain varies slightly depending on where you choose to live, and the lifestyle you choose. However, in general, Spain is a relatively affordable country to live in. Expats living in Spain can expect to pay less for rent, food, and transportation than they would in other European countries.

Numbeo reports that the cost of living in Spain is around 23.4% cheaper than in the United Kingdom.

See the table below to get an idea of the average cost of living in Spain.

Amenity

Average cost in Spain (US$)*

Milk (1 litre)

$4.34

Loaf of bread

$1.29

Rice (1kg)

$0.68

12 eggs

$2.77

Local cheese (1kg)

$6.02

Chicken fillets (1kg)

$3.55

1.5 litre bottle of water

$0.74

Bottle of wine

$5.51

Domestic beer

$1.17

Imported beer

$1.89

*As of August 2024, Numbeo

The cost of rent is also reasonable in Spain, coming in 28% lower on average than in the United Kingdom.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent living in Spain:

Type of property

Average monthly cost (US$)*

Apartment 1 bedroom in the city centre

$1,044.53

Apartment 1 bedroom outside the city centre

$791.87

Apartment 3 bedroom in the city centre

$1,651.08

Apartment 3 bedrooms outside the city centre

$1,176.69

*As of August 2024, Numbeo

Where are the cheapest places to live in and relocate to?

Discover some of the cheapest places to move to as an expat

Accommodation in Spain

What are the best areas to live in Spain as an expat? 

As we’ve already mentioned, Spain has 17 autonomous regions where expats could choose to settle. Where you choose to live in Spain is a very personal choice, though it can help to move to areas where other expats have already set up a community.

These are the most popular regions for expats moving to Spain:

Alicante

Alicante is a top choice for British expats, with 4,036 UK citizens per 100,000 people – the highest concentration in Spain. Alicante is renowned for its beautiful beaches, pleasant climate, and rich cultural scene. Expats living in Alicante enjoy a mix of modern amenities and traditional Spanish charm. The presence of British pubs, shops, and social clubs makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home, while the province’s diverse community welcomes expats from around the world.

Girona

Located just north of Barcelona, Girona is another popular destination, with over 20% of its population being expats. Known for its mediaeval architecture and stunning natural landscapes, Girona offers a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still being close to the bustling city of Barcelona. The top expat communities in Girona include Moroccans, Romanians, and Hondurans. Girona is perfect for expats who want to experience Catalan culture in a more intimate setting, with easy access to both mountains and beaches.

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Barcelona

Barcelona is one of Spain’s most iconic cities, famous for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. It’s a top destination for American expats in Spain, with 142 American citizens per 100,000 people. The city’s international schools, thriving arts scene, and numerous job opportunities make it particularly appealing to families and professionals. Barcelona’s excellent transportation links, including direct flights to major US cities, add to its attractiveness for expats looking for a dynamic and well-connected place to live.

Madrid

As Spain’s capital, Madrid is a bustling metropolis that combines rich history with a modern lifestyle. It has the highest number of US expats in Spain, with 171 per 100,000 people. Expats are drawn to Madrid for its vibrant cultural scene, world-class museums, and lively social life. The city also offers excellent educational options, including American schools, making it a top choice for families. Despite its size, expats in Madrid will find it affordable compared to other European capitals, making it easy to enjoy a high quality of life.

Malaga

Malaga, located on the Costa del Sol, is a favourite among both British and American expats. Known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and relaxed lifestyle, Malaga offers an ideal blend of leisure and culture. The city’s historic centre, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to other Andalusian gems make it a fantastic base for exploring southern Spain. English is widely spoken here, and the expat community in Malaga is well-established.

Almeria

Almeria is the most popular area for expats in Spain, with nearly 22% of its population coming from abroad. British expats make up a significant portion, but the province also hosts large Moroccan and Romanian communities. The province is less touristy than other coastal areas, offering a more authentic Spanish experience with a warm climate. Its natural parks, stunning beaches, and laid-back lifestyle make it a perfect spot for those seeking tranquillity and a slower pace of life.

Got more questions about moving abroad?

Check out our guide for expats looking at moving overseas

Can expats buy property in Spain?

Yes, it is possible to buy property in Spain as an expat. However, it’s important to be aware that – as of 2025 – Spain is planning to implement a 100% tax on all properties bought by non-EU citizens.

What is the 100% property tax Spain is planning?

The Spanish government has announced they intend to add a 100% tax to the sale of any property purchased by non-EU citizens.

This means anyone not already a citizen of the EU will need to pay the entire value of the property as tax, before any other associated property taxes.

The move, described as “unprecedented” by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, is intended to disincentivise foreign property buyers from purchasing holiday homes and buy-to-let properties in Spain, and ringfence properties for Spanish citizens.

The sale of property to foreign investors has become a political issue in Spain in recent years. The increasing number of foreign property buyers has caused property prices to shoot up in major cities such as Barcelona and Valencia, while also putting strain on local infrastructure.

If the risk of the 100% property tax does not put you off, however, you’ll find the process of purchasing property in Spain to be simple and straightforward. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate in Spain, whether you’re an EU citizen or from outside the EU.

How to buy property in Spain

Here are the four key steps to buying a property in Spain:

1. Register for a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) – To buy property in Spain, expats need to obtain a NIE, which is a tax identification number for foreigners. This number is essential for all major financial transactions in Spain, including buying property. 
2. Open a Spanish bank account – You’ll also need a Spanish bank account to handle payments related to the purchase, such as deposits, taxes, and fees.
3. Pay your deposit – Once you’ve found a property, you typically sign a preliminary contract and pay a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price). 
4. Sign the deeds – The final step is signing the deed of sale in the presence of a notary, after which the property is officially yours. It’s advisable to hire a lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure that all legal aspects are properly handled.

Are you a British expat looking at buying property abroad?

Read more on how to buy a house abroad after Brexit as a British citizen

The Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Valencia // GETTY IMAGES

Visas, jobs and working in Spain

How do I find expat jobs in Spain?

Finding a job in Spain as an expat can be both exciting and challenging, depending on your skills, industry, and language proficiency. Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia offer more opportunities, especially in sectors such as tourism, teaching, IT, and international business. English teaching in Spain is a popular option for expats, with numerous language schools and private tutoring opportunities available. 

To find expat jobs in Spain, look to online job portals like InfoJobs, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Networking within local expat communities, attending industry events, and connecting with local professionals can also open doors to English-speaking job opportunities in Spain. It’s important to note that speaking Spanish, even at a basic level, can significantly improve your job prospects and integration into the workplace.

How do I get a visa to live in Spain?

Obtaining a visa to live in Spain depends on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa to live and work in Spain, though they must register with local authorities if they plan to stay longer than three months. For non-EU citizens, including post-Brexit UK nationals, a visa is required.

The most common visas for expats are:

• Digital Nomad Visa: Approved in 2022, the Spanish digital nomad visa allows expats to work remotely in Spain for an initial period of one year, and up to five years subject to a yearly review. Read more about the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa here. 

• Work Visa: If you have a job offer from a Spanish employer, you can apply for a work visa. Your employer typically initiates the process by proving that no suitable candidates are available within the EU.

• Non-Lucrative Visa: Ideal for retirees or those with sufficient financial means to support themselves without working in Spain. This visa requires proof of income or savings and is valid for one year, with the option to renew.

• Student Visa: For those planning to study in Spain. This visa allows you to stay for the duration of your course and often includes the possibility of part-time work.

Each visa type has specific requirements and application procedures, which typically involve submitting documents to the Spanish consulate in your home country. Once in Spain, you’ll need to obtain a residence card (TIE) within 30 days of arrival. This card serves as your official identification and proof of legal residency.

Looking to find a job in Spain?

Here’s how to get a job abroad as an expat

Bank accounts and taxes for expats living in Spain

How to open a bank account in Spain

Opening a bank account in Spain is a straightforward process and can be useful in helping you avoid transaction and currency conversion fees from your foreign bank account. 

As an expat living in Spain, it’s essential to choose the right type of Spanish bank account based on your residency status. Non-residents and residents have different account options, with non-resident accounts typically having fewer requirements but sometimes higher fees.

To open a bank account in Spain, you’ll need the following documents:

• Passport or national ID: Proof of identity is required for all applicants
• NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero): Your foreigner identification number, necessary for almost all financial transactions in Spain
• Proof of address: A utility bill or rental contract is usually sufficient
• Proof of Employment or Income: Some banks may require documentation proving your financial situation, such as a work contract, pension details, or tax returns

You can open an account in person by visiting a bank branch, where the process usually takes less than an hour. Some banks also offer online account opening for residents, but this may still require a visit to a branch for verification.

Popular banks among expats in Spain include Santander, BBVA, and CaixaBank, which often have English-speaking staff and online banking services in multiple languages.

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How to pay taxes in Spain

As an expat living in Spain, your residency status will usually determine your tax status. These are the two tax brackets for expats in Spain:

• Tax residency: You are considered a tax resident in Spain if you spend more than 183 days in the country within a calendar year or if your primary economic interests are based there. Tax residents must declare and pay taxes on their worldwide income.
• Non-resident taxes: If you are a non-resident but own property or earn income in Spain, you are liable to pay taxes only on Spanish-sourced income. This includes rental income, property taxes, and capital gains from selling property.

If you’re employed in Spain, your employer will deduct income tax and social security contributions from your salary. However, if you’re self-employed or have additional income, such as rental income or investments, you’ll need to file an annual tax return.

Spain has double taxation treaties with many countries, including the UK and the US, to prevent you from being taxed on the same income in two countries.

The Spanish tax year runs from January to December, and the tax return must be filed by June 30th of the following year. Income tax rates in Spain are progressive, ranging from 19% to 47%, depending on your income level.

This is the income tax rate scale in Spain, as of 2024:

Taxable base (up to €)

Tax liability (€)

Excess of taxable base (up to €)

Tax rate (%)

0

0

12,450

19

12,450

2,365.50

7,750

24

20,200

4,225.50

15,000

30

35,200

8,725.50

24,800

37

60,000

17,901.50

240,000

45

300,000

125,901.50

Remainder

47

*Source: PwC

Living and working outside of your home country?

Read our guide to paying taxes as an expat abroad

View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona // GETTY IMAGES

Healthcare and insurance in Spain

Spain has an excellent standard of healthcare and overall well-being, earning the top spot in our list of healthiest countries in the world for 2024. This is testament to Spain’s outstanding healthcare system, the active lifestyle of its people and the Mediterranean diet.  

Spain has a universal public healthcare system known as Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides comprehensive medical services to Spanish residents. Funded through taxes, the SNS offers free or low-cost access to general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency care, ensuring that essential healthcare is available to everyone.

In addition to the public system, Spain has a robust private healthcare sector. Private healthcare in Spain is known for its shorter waiting times, access to a broader range of specialists, and a more personalised approach to care. Many private facilities boast state-of-the-art equipment and offer services in multiple languages, including English, making them particularly attractive to expats.

The benefits of international health insurance for Spanish expats

While Spain’s public healthcare system is excellent, many expats choose to supplement it with international health insurance. There are several reasons for this:

• Access to private healthcare: International health insurance provides access to Spain’s extensive private healthcare network, which often offers shorter waiting times and a wider choice of doctors and specialists. Private facilities are also known for their comfort and personalised care.
• Cover beyond Spain: International health insurance ensures you’re covered not just in Spain, but also when you travel back to your home country or visit other countries in your coverage zone. International cover is particularly digital nomads or expats who split their time between multiple countries.
• Language Support: While many Spanish doctors speak English, having international insurance can provide access to English-speaking medical staff and customer service, making it easier to navigate healthcare in a foreign country.
• Medical Evacuation: One of the key benefits of international health insurance is coverage for medical evacuations. In the event of a serious illness or injury where adequate treatment isn’t available locally, your insurance can cover the cost of transporting you to the nearest suitable medical facility or even back to your home country if necessary. This feature can give added peace of mind to expats living in Spain, especially if you live in a more remote area.

Which countries have the best healthcare in the world?

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Education in Spain

Lower education

In Spain, the lower education system is divided into three different stages: primary education (Educación Primaria) which is compulsory for children aged 6 to 12 years old; secondary education (Educación Secundaria Obligatoria), compulsory for children aged 12 to 16 years old; and post-compulsory education which is optional for children older than 16 years and takes the form of either a two-year academic program, or alternative vocational training. 

Expats in Spain have the option to send their children to public, private or international schools, depending on budget and preference.

Public schools (Escuelas Públicas)

Spain’s public education system is well-regarded and free for all residents, including expats. Public schools follow the Spanish national curriculum, and teaching is primarily in Spanish. In regions with strong regional languages, such as Catalonia or the Basque Country, classes may also be conducted in the local language. 

While public schools provide an excellent education, English-speaking children might initially struggle with the language barrier, especially if they join the system later in their academic journey. However, younger children tend to adapt quickly, and many schools offer language support for non-Spanish speakers.

Private schools (Colegios Privados)

Private schools in Spain offer a variety of curricula, including the Spanish national curriculum, international curricula (such as the International Baccalaureate), and bilingual programs. These schools typically provide more personalised attention, smaller class sizes, and a wider range of extracurricular activities. Many private schools are bilingual, offering instruction in both Spanish and English, which can ease the transition for English-speaking children.

International Schools

International schools are a popular choice among expat families, as they offer curricula based on other countries’ education systems, such as the British, American, or French systems. Instruction is usually in English, and these schools often provide a multicultural environment with students from various backgrounds. International schools are ideal for expat families who plan to move frequently or who want their children to continue their education in a familiar system.

Higher education in Spain

Spain is home to several prestigious universities that are well-regarded both nationally and internationally. Lots of them also have courses taught partially in English.

The best universities in Spain according to the Studyportals 2024 rankings are: University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Pompeu Fabra University, Autonomous University of Madrid, Complutense University of Madrid, University of Granada, University of Navarra and University of Valencia.

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Your handy ‘moving to Spain’ checklist

Before moving to Spain, make sure you have checked off the following:

Accommodation

• ☐ Have you researched the best places to live in Spain?
• ☐ Have you decided which city you would like to move to, or whether you’d prefer to live on one Spain’s many island regions?
• ☐ If you’ve found an apartment or house you’d like to rent, have you contacted the company offering the accommodation?
• ☐ If you’ve agreed a place to live, have you received your rental agreement?
• ☐ Have you asked your landlord or property manager to set up your home Wi-Fi ahead of your arrival?

Work

• ☐ Have you received a job offer from a Spanish employer? Have they sent you a contract of employment?
• ☐ If you are self-employed, do you have proof of income and/or financial records for your business?
• ☐ Do you know which type of visa you need to live and work in Spain?
• ☐ Can your Spanish employer help you to secure a working visa?

Healthcare

• ☐ Have you taken out international health insurance before moving to Spain?
• ☐ Have you looked into other forms of health insurance to support your life in Spain, such as life insurance and income protection?
• ☐ Does your health insurance offer access to private healthcare, where you can find medical professionals who speak your native language?

Banking

• ☐ Have you calculated a budget that takes into account expenses such as rent, taxes and other bills/fees?
• ☐ Have you set up a bank account?
• ☐ Do you have all the necessary payment cards to go with your account?

Relocation

• ☐ Have you arranged to get a mobile phone with a local Spanish SIM card??
• ☐ Have you checked to see if you can bring your pets?
• ☐ Have you researched the cost of relocation? If you’re bringing your own furniture from home, have you received a reliable quote from a shipping company?
• ☐ Have you looked into education for your children? If you are planning on enrolling them into private or international schools, you may need to join a waiting list for a place
• ☐ Have you learnt some basic Spanish phrases to help you get by in day-to-day life? Do you know how to access Spanish language lessons once you arrive in Spain?

Ready to begin a new life in Spain?

Moving to another country can be challenging, but you can ensure peace of mind by making sure you have the right international health insurance.

For over 30 years, we have helped expats like you move and settle into their new lives overseas, with the peace of mind of knowing their families are covered by a comprehensive and flexible health insurance policy.

Speak to us today to find out more about how international health insurance could benefit you and your family – and good luck on your Spanish adventure!

Looking for expat health insurance before you move to Spain?

Learn more about our plans

This article is part of our series of guides to expat life. It’s just for general information, and we don’t provide professional advice on moving abroad (we’re an expat insurance provider). We update this article regularly to keep it useful as possible, but if you want to know more – please seek independent advice.