First 30 Days in Spain: Complete Checklist

Introduction to Your First 30 Days in Spain

Starting a new life in Spain can be exciting and, at the same time, challenging. The first 30 days are crucial for settling in and adapting to your new environment. This complete checklist will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your arrival is as smooth as possible.

Documentation and Legality

One of the first things you should do upon arriving in Spain is to ensure that all your documentation is in order. This will allow you to enjoy your new life without legal setbacks.

1. Obtain the NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)

The NIE is essential for any expatriate planning to reside in Spain. This number is necessary to open bank accounts, sign contracts, and carry out other legal activities.

• Required documents:
  • Valid passport
  • Form EX-15
  • Proof of payment of fee (approximately 12 euros)
• Places to apply:
  • Police Stations
  • Foreigners' Offices

2. Registration at the Town Hall

Registration is mandatory in Spain.

• Required documents:
  • Passport and NIE
  • Rental contract or property deed
• Why is it important? It will allow you to access public and medical services.

Finances

Managing your finances is key to your stability in Spain. Here are some essential steps.

1. Open a Bank Account

A local bank account makes daily transactions and managing your money easier.

• Required documents:
  • Passport and NIE
  • Proof of address (recent bill or rental contract)
• Recommended banks:
  • Banco Santander
  • BBVA
  • CaixaBank

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Tax System

Knowing the Spanish tax system is essential to avoid problems with the tax authorities. Here are a few things you should know:

• Tax residents must declare their income in Spain.
• The deadline for filing income tax returns is from April 1 to June 30 each year.

Health and Social Security

Taking care of your health is fundamental when moving to a new country. Ensure you have adequate access to medical services.

1. Obtain a Health Card

The health card will allow you to access public healthcare in Spain.

• Required documents:
  • NIE
  • Registration certificate
  • Documentation proving your right to healthcare (e.g., employment, Spanish family, etc.)
• Where to apply: Offices of the Madrid Health Service or its equivalent in other autonomous communities.

2. Take Out Private Health Insurance

If you do not have access to public healthcare, taking out private insurance is advisable. Some options include:

• Sanitas
• Aegon
• Allianz

The cost of private health insurance can vary between 50 and 150 euros per month, depending on the coverage.

Accommodation

Finding the right place to live is one of the most important aspects of your move.

1. Look for Temporary Accommodation

Before finding a permanent home, consider temporary options such as:

• Airbnb
• Hostels
• Hotels

2. Renting a Home

Once you are ready to move to a more permanent place, here are some tips:

• Recommended platforms: Idealista, Fotocasa, and Habitaclia.
• Costs: Rent in cities like Madrid and Barcelona can range from 800 to 1,500 euros per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Integration and Social Life

Integrating into the local culture is key to enjoying your experience in Spain.

1. Learn the Language

Speaking Spanish will facilitate your adaptation. Consider enrolling in language classes.

• Recommended schools: Instituto Cervantes, local language schools.
• Class costs: Between 100 and 300 euros per month, depending on the course.

2. Connect with the Community

Make friends and expand your social circle by participating in local activities.

• Platforms to socialize: Meetup, Couchsurfing, and Facebook groups.
• Participate in community events or local fairs.

Conclusion

The first 30 days in Spain are a mix of emotions and challenges. By following this checklist, you can ease your adaptation and enjoy a smoother transition. Don't forget that having the help of experts can make this experience much more rewarding.

Health4Spain is here to assist you in the adaptation process, providing you with information about health insurance and medical services in Spain, ensuring that your health is always protected while you enjoy your new life.