For many people, living in Spain is a dream and a
privilege. For those who have travelled a lot it is easy to see why
Spain is one of the most popular countries to live or visit. Spain
is the most popular holiday destination in Europe. The standard of living in Spain is very high,
the weather in Spain is the best in
Europe and the cost of living is cheaper.
Cost of living in spain
Comparing the cost of living in Spain to other European countries
is a difficult question to answer. Prices can vary substantially depending
on the area, generally the cost of living is higher in urban centres
such as Madrid or Barcelona than in Valencia.
Permits and Taxes in spain
Spain has a double taxation agreement with many countries. You are
liable for income taxes when you reside 183 days per calendar year
in Spain, or if you have your main business interest in Spain. In
some cases paying for Permits and Taxes in Spain may be advantageous
since there are deductions that may not apply in other countries.
Obtaining a Residence Permit in Spain
Obtaining a residence permit in Spain is necessary for anyone planning
to live indefinitely, study, work in Spain, they must apply for a
residence card within 15 days of arriving in Spain. Before arriving
in Spain it is best to contact embassies and consulates in Spain or
in your own country. If you are planning a short stay (on a short-term
contract perhaps) then you will be issued with a temporary residence
card for the period required. Children under 18 years of age can be
included on the parents' residence card.
Working in Spain
There are many jobs in Spain for foreigners, nevertheless, throughout
the coastal areas most jobs are seasonal. Working in Spain depends
to a large extent on what you can and are be able to do. Most of the
qualifications obtained in the United Kingdom and Europe are recognized
in Spain.
Banking in Spain
The Banking in Spain system has been relatively profitable by European
standards, as operating income has been above the Euro Area average.
Capital adequacy roughly equals the EU average, although Banco de
España requires some what stricter capital standards than many
EU countries.
Schools in Spain
There are many very good international schools and colleges in Spain
with tailored packages to suit your needs. All are bilingual in English
and Spanish and many are co-educational. Choose an area from our selection
of International Schools in Valencia to see more information.
Healthcare in Spain
If you pay social security, healthcare in Spain is free or low cost,
(families and retirees are also included). Like many countries however,
the health service in Spain has a waiting lists to see specialists
and for non urgent operations. Find out information about the E111
form for non residents and the E-121 form for permanent residents.
Buying cars in Spain
In order to buy a Spanish registered car you need a residence card,
a deed (escritura) or rental contract for a Spanish property, or a
certificate of residence (certificado de empadronamiento) in Spain.
E.P.S can help you in your purchase of a car as part of its after
sales service.
Bringing Pets into Spain
Pets brought into Spain need an International Vaccination Health Certificate
or Pet Passport showing they can be imported into Spain without a
quarantine. The health certificate must be issued no more than 15
days prior to bringing your pet into the country.
TV in Spain
Apart from the normal Terrestrial and national satellite services
it is also possible to receive Sky services from Valencia provided
you have a big enough dish. If you require more information on this
service please contact us to discuss how E.P.S can help.
Telephone in Spain
The telephone service is controlled mainly by Telefónica which
owns several other companies (including Terra and Teleline). When
you get your telephone installed expect a fee of about 150 Euros to
be charged for this service. Please note that a phone line is not
always available.
Internet in Spain
Dial up internet is available in Spain provided you have a telephone
connection. You can either pay for a flat-rate service with the ISP
(internet service provider) or alternatively request an ADSL or CABLE
Modem service although the latter is less common. Lastly Iberdrola,
the Electric company is currently trialling an internet service via
their electric lines.
Utilities in Spain
E.P.S or your appointed solicitor will automatically take care of
the change of names on all of your utility bills after buying a property.
Public Transport in spain
Public transport is generally very good in Spanish cities most of
which have efficient bus and rail systems. Further information about
trains, buses, taxis and the metro in Valencia can be found in the
Getting here section.
