The topic of emigration resonates with many people worldwide. I have done it—almost unconsciously—three times myself. Whether for economic, political, professional, or personal reasons, the decision to leave one’s home country is one of the biggest changes in life. Spain is particularly popular as a destination for emigrants. But what do you need to know before taking this big step?
Why Do People Choose to Emigrate?
There are many reasons why people want to emigrate. Some seek better job opportunities, while others long for a more relaxed life with more sunshine and less stress. Many retirees wish to spend their later years in a more pleasant climate, while families look for a better work-life balance. Spain offers all of this and more: high quality of life, friendly people, a rich culture, and relatively moderate living costs.
The Benefits of Living in Spain
- Climate: Spain boasts mild winters and hot summers.
- Quality of Life: Healthcare, infrastructure, and leisure activities are of a high standard.
- Cost of Living: While major cities like Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive, rural regions and coastal towns often offer affordable housing.
- Culture and Gastronomy: Spanish cuisine, local festivals, and a relaxed lifestyle are major draws for many.
Important Considerations Before Moving to Spain
Before you embark on the adventure of emigration, you should consider a few key points:
- Visa & Residency Status: EU citizens do not need a visa but must register locally and obtain a NIE (foreigner identification number).
- Learning the Language(s): Speaking Spanish helps with integration and making connections more easily. Keep in mind that Spain has five official languages. If you plan to live in Galicia or Catalonia for example, I strongly recommend learning the local languages as well – they open many doors!
- Job Market & Income: Salaries are often lower than in Northern Europe, but the cost of living is also lower. Know your priorities.
- Real Estate Market: There are significant regional differences, and not every apparent bargain is a good deal. Since I made some mistakes when buying my first house, I co-founded iNMOspector.com with an architect friend in 2017 to help other property buyers avoid unnecessary personal and financial stress.
Emigrating vs. Immigrating – The Right Perspective
Many people focus on emigrating, meaning leaving their home country. However, the far more important perspective is immigrating: How do you integrate into your new home? Language, culture, social environment, as well as legal and professional adjustments, are crucial for a successful and happy future in your new country. Those who actively engage with their new surroundings, learn Spanish+, and familiarize themselves with Spanish customs will be more satisfied in the long run.
Don’t just focus on the negative aspects of what you’re leaving behind and the positives of what awaits you. Make an honest and realistic list of the good things you are leaving behind, potential challenges ahead, and things you might miss. Many of these can be brought with you or compensated for in other ways.
We Help You Start Your Life in Spain
One of the most crucial steps when emigrating is finding the right property—whether to rent or buy. This is where we come in! Our team at iNMOspector.com helps you find a suitable, secure, and urbanistically sound property. We guide you through the entire process to make your dream of living in Spain a reality.
Let’s plan your fresh start together – contact us today!