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Moving to Spain: A Step-by-Step Guide for Your Family
Our story
We are a family of 4: my husband, our 2 children and myself. Our dream of moving to Spain, particularly Barcelona, began during our first vacation here. Amazed by the city's culture and lifestyle, we spent 2 years meticulously planning our relocation. This included multiple visits and a 3-month trial stay with our kids to ensure it was the right fit. We sold our house, car, and everything to embrace a more fulfilling, outdoor-oriented life.
"When you realize how short life is, it becomes clear that living fully matters more than accumulating material things"
Acknowledging the challenges of relocating with children, we've crafted this guide to assist other families in their journey to Spain. Hope you find the information below as useful as it could be!

by @vanispain .

First Step: Paperwork!
Paperwork is the first and most important step in your move to Spain. Here it really depends if you are coming from a country that is part of the European Union or not!
EU Citizens
If you're an EU citizen, the process is relatively straightforward. You'll need a valid passport or national ID card.
Within three months of arrival, you must register with the Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigner's Office) and obtain a certificate of registration (empadronamiento).
Then you will also need a NIE, your official id document in Spain. You’ll need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources and health insurance to not become a burden on the Spanish social system.
Easy peasy!
Non-EU Citizens
For non-EU citizens, visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay.
The most common types of visas for families moving to Spain are the non-lucrative visa (if you don't plan to work) and the work visa (if you have a job offer).
You’ll need to apply for a visa at the Spanish consulate in your home country and provide various documents, including your passport, proof of financial means, health insurance, and criminal record check. The process can take several months, so start early.
Essential Documents:
  • Passport
  • Birth certificates *
  • Marriage certificate *
  • Criminal record check *
  • Medical certificate *
  • Proof of funds (specific number per person)
  • Health insurance
* Translated in Spanish or with a multi-language translation
Consider Professional Assistance
Consider hiring relocation experts or immigration lawyers to guide you through the visa process and all other documentation process. Especially if you don't speak the language, it is a nececity. They can help you gather the necessary documents, fill out the application forms correctly, book you an appointments (because you'll need them for everywhere) and represent you in case of any issues or if you don't speak the language. (check useful links bellow)

Note: Keep in mind that in the local institutions often they don't speak English.
Finding Your Perfect Spanish Home
Popular Expat Neighborhoods
Spain offers a variety of family-friendly neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. It really depends so do your own research online, or come and check locally and decide. It is important to chose the right place, especially when you have children. Here we will cover Barcelona and Madrid as most desirable places to live in:
Barcelona
While trendy neighborhoods like Eixample and the Gothic Quarter are popular, they may not always be ideal for families due to bustling environments and limited green spaces. Based on our experience, consider the following family-friendly areas:
  • Les Corts: Offers a blend of residential tranquility and urban amenities (mainly locals, relaxed atmosphere, parks, wide sidewalks).
  • Gràcia: Known for its village-like atmosphere, vibrant plazas, and strong community feel.​ (tiny streets, vilage vibe, chilled, relaxed)
  • Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: Features spacious parks and reputable schools, making it ideal for families. (most of the private schools are there)
We chose Les Corts due to its proximity to its local vibe, safety, far away from tourists, very well-organised and the abundance of parks.
Madrid
In Madrid, while areas like Malasaña and Chueca are trendy, they might not cater to family needs. Instead, explore neighborhoods such as:
  • Chamberí: Combines classic architecture with modern amenities, offering a family-friendly environment.
  • Retiro: Adjacent to the famous Retiro Park, it provides ample recreational spaces for children.
  • Salamanca: Known for its safety, excellent schools, and upscale residential options.
Researching Neighborhoods Remotely
If an in-person visit isn't feasible, leverage online tools to assess potential neighborhoods:
  • Google Street View: Virtually explore streets to gauge the environment. (we did that for almost everything)
  • Online Reviews: Platforms like Google Reviews offer insights into local amenities and community feedback.
  • Social Media Communities: Engage with locals and expatriates to gather firsthand experiences. (we used popular Facebook groups for Barcelona)
We utilized these methods extensively during our planning phase, which helped us shortlist neighborhoods before our visit, because even if we have been to Barcelona three times, we couldn't look each part of the city.
Coastal cities like Valencia and Málaga also offer attractive options with beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle. Do your research to find the best fit for your family's needs and preferences.
Apartment Hunting
Finding an apartment in the top cities in Spain can be a challenging experience, especially for families. The rental market is highly competitive, with some listings attracting numerous applicants.
Key Factors to Consider:
  • Documentation: Having a Spanish job contract, a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), and proficiency in Spanish can enhance your rental application.
  • Agency Responses: It's common for agencies not to respond to applications due to high demand. Persistence is essential! Consider calling agencies directly to increase your chances.
  • Temporary Accommodation: Renting a short-term place, such as an Airbnb, for at least a month allows you to visit agencies in person and facilitates a more effective search.
  • Professional Assistance: Engaging a broker or relocation agent can provide valuable support and representation during the rental process.
Financial Preparations:
  • Increased Deposits: Without a Spanish job contract, landlords may require additional deposits or third-party guarantees. Just keep that in mind!
  • Pet Policies: Having pets can lead to higher deposits or restrictions on rental options.
Despite these challenges, with determination and the right approach, you can secure a suitable home for your family in Spain.
Several websites can help you find apartments in Spain. Idealista and Fotocasa are the most popular platforms, offering a wide range of properties to rent or buy. You can also work with local real estate agents, who can provide personalized assistance and access to exclusive listings. Be prepared to pay a deposit and the first month's rent upfront. Most of the landlords require a guarantor or proof of income.
  • Top Websites: Idealista, Fotocasa, pisos.com.
  • Important Factors: Proximity to schools, parks, public transportation, hospitals, and shops. Consider the size of the apartment and whether it has family-friendly amenities like a balcony or garden.
P.S. If you decide to buy, you should definitely hire help and research taxes first!
Education in Spain: Enrolling Your Children
Spain offers diverse educational options:
  • Public Schools: Free and follow the Spanish curriculum.
  • Semi-private Schools (Concertadas): Almost the same as public schools, but have a monthly fee.
  • Private Schools: Fee-based, often providing bilingual education.
Enrollment typically requires:
  • Passports
  • Birth certificates *
  • Proof of address (empadronamiento)
  • Vaccination records *
  • Previous school reports *
* Multi-language translation or a Spanish one.
Even though our children were not fluent in Spanish upon arrival, we enrolled them in public school so they could fully integrate and also because of the good reviews of the public educational system in Spain.
  • Required Documents: Passport, birth certificate, proof of address, vaccination records, school reports.
  • Language Considerations: Language support programs and bilingual education options are available.
Settling In: First Steps Upon Arrival
Relocating to Spain involves several essential steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here's a chronological guide to help you navigate the process:
Primary Steps:
  1. Obtain Private Health Insurance: Before applying for your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), securing private health insurance is mandatory. This coverage is essential for visa applications and initial residency requirements.

    We personally use AXA, but you can choose any company. Keep in mind that you need to pay for a whole year in advance! It is between 50-70 euro per person per month.
  1. Open a Spanish Bank Account: Having a local bank account is crucial for managing daily expenses and fulfilling financial prerequisites for residency applications.
  1. Apply for NIE: The NIE is your unique identification number in Spain, necessary for legal and financial transactions.

    You need to be physically here in Spain and go to the local police station after booking an appointment. The appointments are very hard to get, so for that case we hired help. (links below)

    To apply, you'll need:
    - Completed application form.
    - Valid passport.
    - Proof of health insurance.
    - Proof of financial means.
  1. Register for Empadronamiento: This process registers you as a resident in your local municipality, allowing access to public services like healthcare and education. Required documents typically include:
Registration is done at the local town hall, again with a previous appointment, booked online.
  • Passport
  • NIE
  • Proof of address (e.g., rental contract)
Completing these steps will help establish your residency and integrate smoothly into Spanish life.
Completing these steps promptly facilitated our integration into the community and access to necessary services.

Secondary Tasks:
  1. Set Up Utilities: Arrange for electricity, water, gas, and internet services in your new home. This often requires:
  • NIE
  • Bank account details
  • Proof of residence
  1. Exchange or Validate Driver's License: If you plan to drive in Spain, you must exchange or validate your foreign driver's license within six months of obtaining residency. The process and requirements vary based on your country of origin.
These initial steps are crucial for establishing your legal and practical presence in Spain. Be prepared to provide documentation and follow the procedures outlined by the local authorities. Starting off on the right foot will make your transition to life in Spain much smoother.
Healthcare and Insurance for Your Family
Spanish Healthcare System
Spain offers a universal healthcare system, providing free or subsidized healthcare to residents. You can access public healthcare if you're employed, self-employed, or a legal resident. Alternatively, you can opt for private health insurance, which offers faster access to specialists and a wider range of services. If you are not contributing to the social security system, you will need to purchase private health insurance to obtain a visa.
Insurance Options
Consider your family's healthcare needs and budget when choosing between public and private health insurance. Register with a local doctor (médico de cabecera) to access primary care services. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for ambulance, fire, or police assistance. Pharmacies (farmacias) are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.
Every parent knows that with kids, hospital visits become a frequent part of life. Understanding Spain's healthcare system is crucial from day one. Our family has experienced both public and private healthcare here. The public system boasts top-notch specialists, but securing appointments can involve long waits. For urgent situations, especially with our children, we've found private emergency rooms to be invaluable, offering prompt attention without the usual delays. Overall, both sectors are attentive and well-organized, and we've been pleasantly surprised by the affordability of medications at local pharmacies.
Embracing Spanish Culture as a Family
Language
Learn Spanish! Immersion programs and classes can help.
Food
Explore the culinary scene by taking food tours.
Culture
Find friends and integrate by going to festivals and events.
Embracing Spanish culture as a family will enrich your experience and help you integrate into your new community. Learning the language is essential for communication and building relationships. Consider enrolling in Spanish classes or language exchange programs. Take advantage of family-friendly guided tours and experiences to discover the country's history and landmarks. Don't be shy or afraid and participate in local festivals and traditions to immerse yourselves in the Spanish way of life. You will have plenty of opportunities as here the number of festivals is endless.

Advice: Get in contact with other parents, be the one who makes the first step and don't wait for the others to come to you and get to know you. You go to them and make the contact!

Making friends and building a community will help you feel at home in Spain.
Practical Matters: Moving and Daily Life
Moving and Transportation
Choose an international moving company with experience in shipping household goods to Spain. Be prepared to deal with customs regulations and import duties. Public transportation options for families include buses, trains, and metros. Consider purchasing a monthly travel pass for cost savings. Spanish cities are generally walkable and bike-friendly. When it comes to shopping, check out local markets for fresh produce and unique items and don't miss shopping in Mercadona! Enjoying Spanish food culture is part of integrating into life here!
Enjoying Life
Spain offers expat families a vibrant lifestyle enriched by a multitude of festivals, free activities, and cultural experiences.
Festivals and Cultural Events
Spain hosts an impressive array of festivals throughout the year, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. From the lively Feria de Abril in Seville to the renowned La Tomatina in Buñol, there's always a celebration to partake in. These events provide unique insights into Spanish traditions and are excellent opportunities for families to immerse themselves in local culture.
Free Activities and Attractions
Beyond festivals, Spain boasts endless possibilities for free or low-cost activities:
  • Parks and Gardens: Cities like Madrid and Barcelona are home to expansive parks such as El Retiro and Park Güell, perfect for family outings.
  • Beaches: The country's extensive coastline offers numerous beaches where families can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean climate.
  • Museums: Many museums offer free entry on specific days or times, allowing families to explore art, history, and science without straining the budget.
Respecting Local Culture
Embracing and respecting local customs is fundamental to integrating into Spanish society. Simple gestures, such as learning basic Spanish phrases, participating in community events, and observing local etiquette, can foster positive relationships with locals. In return, you'll find Spaniards to be warm and welcoming, enriching your family's experience in the country.
By engaging in these cultural and recreational opportunities, expat families can fully enjoy the diverse and enriching lifestyle Spain has to offer.
Useful Links/Connections to help you move stress-free:
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