Moving to Spain from the USA

Are you thinking about moving to Spain from the US? If so, you have come to the right place for more information on moving the process, cost, and more. You are sure to love your new life in Spain with all the beaches, delicious food, wine, and beautiful buildings that encapsulate the country.

Regardless of whether you are planning on moving to Spain alone or with family, everything you need to know can be found below. Spain’s excellent international reputation can be accredited to its rich culture and overall quality of life. The country has attracted many people on the lookout for worldwide opportunities.

Here are some other articles that might help you plan your move:

• Best International Movers: The international moving industry is full of scammy movers, and when all of your belongings are at stake, don’t take chances. These are the top international movers.
• Ship your car overseas: Taking your car with you? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced.
• International Moving Costs: Moving internationally comes with its own set of expenses. Learn more about the specific costs associated with an international move.

How to move from the US to Spain

There are several options to consider when moving to Spain from the US. The most common routes include tourist visas, retirement visas, work visas, self-employment visas, investor visas, or permanent residency. However, before you decide between any of those options, you first want to get a Spanish passport.

The fastest and easiest way to obtain this is to apply for the Spain Golden Visa. Granted, of course, that you made at the very minimum investment of 500,000 euros in the Spanish economy. If so, you can receive a passport in ten years.

The Spanish passport guarantees visa-free access to 187 countries, unlimited access to European countries, and the right to live, work and study in Spain with no limitations. Explore your options in Spain.

How to move your things from the US to Spain

When you are taking part in an international move, it is essential to figure out how to move all your belongings to a new country. Moving household items overseas tends to be a bit more tricky than moving within the US. You can, however, alleviate the stress related to this process with proper planning. Some of the best ways to move your belongings abroad can be sea freight or air freight.

Why sea freight?

Sea freight is otherwise the most common and cost-efficient way to transport belongings overseas. To do this effectively, an international moving company will arrange to send a container to your current home. It can be loaded up with all your household items when the container arrives.

A trucker will then pick up and transport the container to the port. Be sure to check what each international moving company offers in service; some provide door-to-door and door-to-port services. Moving to Spain from the US will present you with different shipment options. Either full container load or less than container load.

Why air freight?

Air Freight is the less common option when moving items to a new country is done by air freight. This option is much more expensive than sea freight, and there is usually a limit on the weight of items that can be shipped by air. Planes can only hold so much cargo. There is the exception of those who will vouch for this service by saying that air freight convenience is well worth the high cost. Moving items by air is considerably faster than sea freight.

Why are people moving from the US to Spain?

Not only is there something to be said about how exciting it is to move to another country, but there can also be something worth mentioning for the following:

• Spain’s affordable cost of living
• Quality healthcare system
• Incredible destinations
• Easily accessible public transportation
• Rich Spanish culture.

These have been known as the main factors linked to why people are moving to Spain from the US.

Spain’s overall cost of living

Spain’s overall cost of living is very different than the cost of living elsewhere. The country is the most affordable compared to many other western European countries. Average prices equate to a one-bedroom apartment costing $1,050. When you broaden your horizons and look at a more expensive neighborhood, you can expect to pay about $1,550.

When it comes to food, you will see that a pound of chicken costs $4.48, a dozen eggs are $2.90, and a liter of milk is a little over $1. If you are looking for takeout food instead, a McDonald’s combo meal will cost you $9.

Healthcare in Spain

With healthcare, you can forget about all the stresses of your current healthcare plan and system. Spain offers universal healthcare coverage, making it one of the best systems in the world. There is no need to fret about deductibles and copays; with universal coverage, neither exist. If you do not have healthcare, a traditional doctor’s visit will cost anywhere around $65, while twelve doses of antibiotics can cost around $8.

History and art in Spain

Moving from the US to Spain allows you to explore many beautiful places the country offers. Art, history, and culture are around every corner of Spain. You have the chance to visit Valencia and the City of Arts and Sciences, a famous architectural entertainment complex with an IMAX theater, planetarium and interactive science museum, opera house, and performing arts center. You don’t want to miss a trip to Granada or the Balearic Islands. Be prepared these places to take your breath away.

Public transportation in Spain

Another reason you see many people moving to Spain is due to their easily accessible public transportation system. Spain is home to an extensive bus and metro system. Moving around Spain’s cities is easy to do by bus or train.

Culture in Spain

Finally, by moving to Spain, you can expect to embrace the country’s incredible culture. You will be presented with the siesta culture. This lifestyle includes a rest period every day of the week from 2 pm-4 pm. Residents of Spain are known to live a relaxed lifestyle. Each workday begins at 10 am and is followed by a break between 2 pm and 4 pm.

Everything closes down during this period. The workday ends at 8 pm. The average resident of Spain works 35 hours per week and can enjoy one month per year of paid vacation.

What are some of the best places to move to in Spain?

For those interested in learning about some of the best places to live when moving to Spain, the following list offers suggestions to get you started.

• Madrid
• Barcelona
• Valencia
• Seville
• Malaga
• Granada

Moving to Spain is a decision that you will benefit from most definitely. The culture is thriving, the history is impeccable, and the architecture is highly impressive. Many quickly embrace the siesta lifestyle, which has been known to enhance overall well-being.

Take a look at our FAQs on moving from the US to Spain if you still have any doubts.

Moving to Spain: FAQs:

Can US citizens move to Spain?

Yes. US citizens can move to Spain, and it can be done through either tourist, retirement, work, self-employment, or Spain Golden visas. Plan appropriately and invest your time, money, and efforts into an international moving company.

Can I move to Spain without a job?

Given that you can prove you have enough money to remain in Spain without employment, you are likely to be able to renew your stay. If you are looking to stay in Spain under temporary residency, you must sustain yourself.

How much money do you need to move to Spain?

This answer depends on various factors like the location of your home, your income level, and the size of your home. On average, though, one should be making at least 2,259.60 euros per month.

How much money should I save before moving to Spain?

You are better off saving approximately 2,000-2,200 euros a month if you move to Spain. This should ensure you have enough money to live comfortably.

What is the climate in Spain?

The climate in Spain sits between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit during the months except for May, June, July, August, and September. During those months, the summer months temperatures start from the mid-70s and go up into the 90s.

What is the cost of living in Spain?

This answer also varies and is determined by which part of Spain you reside in. Certain cities like Madrid cost a family of four 2,396 euros per month and 2,104.54 euros per month to live in Valencia. Particular areas cost more than others.

What are the requirements to move to Spain?

Those looking to move to Spain must obtain either a temporary residence card if the plan is to stay between three months and one year or a permanent residence card if the plan is to stay between one and five years.

What are the best places to live in Spain?

The top five best places to live in Spain are Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Malaga, and Alicante. Costs, safety, culture, and food all rank among the top reasons these cities are the best in Spain.

How much money should I budget for food and rent in Spain?

It entirely depends on your preferences, where you live, the size of your home, and many other factors, which should help you determine how much money to budget for food and rent in Spain. On average, though, 1,500 euros should be a safe budget.

Is it hard to find work in Spain?

Finding a job in Spain is like a job search in any other country. It can be a bit tough, but you will find a job with the right amount of resilience and effort. The country has just about recovered from the financial crisis that began back in 2007, so bear in mind that finding a position that pays well and you simultaneously enjoy can be a little more challenging.

Can you move to Spain with a criminal record?

Immigrating to Spain will require you to fulfill some qualifications. This includes having no criminal record. You must also demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family while living in Spain.

What visas does Spain offer Americans?

Spain offers a selection of visas for Americans. They are tourist, retirement, work, self-employment, investor, and permanent residency visas. When moving to Spain, you want to make sure you are prepared for the most effortless transition.