A Spanish villa with a pool on the Costa Del Sol, a charming old farmhouse in the Dordogne, an apartment in The Algarve or a country home on the rolling hills of Tuscany.  Whatever your vision for your retirement abroad you need to be sure you make an informed decision about where you plan to...

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain provided they are able to support themselves financially. It is used by those planning to retire to Spain and other people who do not plan to work in Spain. You have to become tax resident in Spain and it can be renewed for up to...

There are many advantages to renting rather than buying in Spain and it is worth considering renting initially even if you plan to buy. How do you find a rental property, what are your options and how does the rental process work? Here we set out what you need to know before renting in Spain...

Having made the decision to move to Spain what will determine which region you choose to live in? Here we set out the attractions of some of the most popular locations to retire, take up a new lifestyle working for yourself as a digital nomad or by using your trade or profession. The capital city...

When moving to a new country you should take a look at your banking arrangements.  It is generally possible to use your existing bank from your home country for many purposes, but it is worth opening a local Spanish account for most people.  International Online Banks You can also consider using one of the growing...

Driving in Spain is allowed on a foreign licence as a visitor but non-EU residents need to exchange for a Spanish licence after six months. What is involved? You will also need to understand what items and documentation you need to carry in the car with you and what the penalties for traffic violations....

Spain remains the most popular destination for Northern Europeans to move to in Europe whether to work or retire.  The Costas are the most popular destinations, but what are the advantages of each?     Written exclusively for Expat Network by Sarah Gomez of the Costa Blanca Property Portal www.Javea.Properties When would-be expats decide to...

Spain remains the most popular destination for British tourists and expats.  The climate is a major draw, but the beaches, excellent food and drink, friendly Spanish people, laid back lifestyle, culture and historic cities add to its attractiveness.  Spain has a long history and this has impacted their culture. Spain Spain has a total...

The most popular holiday and retirement destination for many British over the last several decades and that is not likely to change.  What are the attractions of living and retiring to Spain. There are believed to be more than one million Britons living in Spain permanently, and more British pensioners in Spain than in any...

How to get telephone and internet connections in Spain Movistar (formerly known as Telefonica) is the main national provider of telephone services in Spain. Other providers can offer telephone and internet services, but they will be delivered through lines provided by Movistar as they are the only company authorised to install landlines in Spain.  There...

Getting a mobile phone can be the best way to start getting connected when you first arrive in Spain as you will need a contact number when you apply for a telephone landline.  If you are moving within the EU you can now use your calling plan anywhere in the EU, but there are benefits...

Anyone who works or studies in Spain is required to have a social security number. This number (número de afiliación de la seguridad social) gives you access to the social security services and healthcare in Spain. Social security is generally paid for by the employer. Once you have been entered into the system the number...