Here are four pivotal factors to consider when contemplating a relocation to Spain. While this comprehensive list furnishes valuable information, it is vital to recognize that the most profound insights will be gleaned from firsthand experience. Hence, as you accumulate knowledge and inspiration, do not overlook the significance of embarking on a journey to Spain and personally exploring the multifarious wonders the country offers!
Let us delve into these five indispensable considerations.
The Spanish Bureaucracy.
Traversing the labyrinthine Spanish bureaucracy can pose a formidable challenge, as it is known to operate at a leisurely pace in sync with the relaxed notion of time in Spain. Some legal procedures may take several months to reach resolution, necessitating meticulous planning and the prompt initiation or submission of requisite paperwork, whenever feasible. As an expatriate, you may encounter the intricacies of the Spanish bureaucracy, particularly while procuring a residency permit, which can often transmute into a protracted and venturesome process. However, there is encouraging news with the advent of the Entrepreneur's Law, as certain permits can now be processed online, leading to expedited outcomes. For more comprehensive information about the Entrepreneur's Law and the permits it encompasses, refer to this article. Additionally, it is noteworthy that Spanish banks typically maintain limited operating hours, closing at 2 pm and remaining closed on weekends, when making payments for permit fees or other associated expenses.
Navigating the Spanish Rental Market
When renting an apartment or a room in Spain, it is customary for the landlord to request a security deposit, known as "fianza," in addition to the first month's rent. This deposit should be refunded to you upon the termination of your rental contract. Furthermore, rental contracts in Spain often stipulate whether utilities are included or not. If utilities are included ("gastos incluidos"), you will pay a fixed amount each month. Conversely, if they are not included, you will need to pay based on the monthly utility bill, in addition to the rent. As an expatriate, it is imperative to visit the apartment or room in person and conduct a thorough inspection before making a decision. Once you have selected a place, you may be required to pay 1 to 2 months' rent in advance, along with potential agency fees if you have availed the services of a real estate agency. Websites such as Idealista or Fotocasa can provide listings of available apartments or rooms. For further guidance on rental prices and legal clauses in rental contracts, additional tips can be found here. Upon arriving in Spain, it is crucial to promptly complete your "empadronamiento," which is the official registration of your address. This is a prerequisite for applying for your residence permit and other legal formalities.
Spain and Relationships
It is often said that if you are open to love, it will find you, and perhaps, even in Spain! If you do happen to fall in love with someone from the European Union, you can register as a "pareja de hecho," which is a civil partnership. This will bestow Spanish residency upon you for five years and enable you to work. For more detailed information about "pareja de hecho," kindly refer to this source. Alternatively, if you wish to get married, that is also a possibility. The process is uncomplicated, and further details on mixed marriages can be found here. Furthermore, Spain is renowned for being one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe. Same-sex marriage is legalized, and 89% of the population embraces homosexuality. In fact, Spain has scored 74.6 points out of 100 on the Gender Equality Index, surpassing the EU's average score by 6 points. Consequently, Spain is ranked 6th in the European Union in terms of gender equality. So, come to
Getting work in Spain.
When considering a move to Spain, one important aspect to keep in mind is the time spent on work, which typically amounts to at least 8 hours per day. However, in Spain, work-life balance is prioritized, and once you are off work, it is time to disconnect.
In Spain, you may come across the term "puente" when working, which refers to a long weekend. It literally translates to "bridge" because sometimes, if there is a holiday on a Tuesday, for example, Monday may also be made a no-work holiday, creating a longer break.
The typical work day in Spain usually runs from 9am to 6pm, with lunch break typically taken at 1pm or 2pm. This might require a slight adjustment if you are accustomed to taking lunch earlier in your home country.
The good news is that some employers in Spain offer shorter work days on Fridays or provide options to end work earlier. Additionally, Spain's current minimum wage is 1080 euros, although the average salary is around 25,200 euros per year.
Spain has seen a rise in the number of startups, particularly in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, making it an ideal place to develop your own innovative projects. This trend has also attracted foreign talent, making it easier to find employment and connect with like-minded individuals.
If you need more ideas on how to find a job in Spain, you can access a complete guide for further guidance. However, if you are concerned about the legal aspects, such as obtaining a work permit as an expat, this article provides comprehensive information to help you navigate the process.