Living in Spain

If you're considering moving to Spain, read this handy guide first to get an idea of the things involved in emigrating.

Step One
The first point of call for many people is a crash course in Spanish. Although this is a good idea, try not to worry about learning the language too quickly, if you get the grips with the basics whilst still in the UK, you can use that knowledge to pick up more and more of the language when you're actually in Spain, as listening to the locals will desensitise you to their accent, making it easier in the long run.

Step Two
Once you've found your perfect property, you'll have to decide whether you want to furnish it with furniture from your UK property, or start afresh, If it's the first option, some basic research into overseas furniture removal companies is essential - look for credentials and testimonials, the last thing you want is to start a new life having lost all your furniture and memories thanks to a sloppy service.

Step Three
Apply for your visa, if needed. See the 'visa' section for more information.

Step Four
The fiddly bits:
Talk to your bank, doctor, health insurance provider, utility providers (if you're keeping your UK property) to inform them that you're moving away, and ask if there's any forms you need to fill out and such like, so you don't get caught short in the weeks before you leave.

If you have pets and are wanting to take them with you, check out the procedures and talk to your vet to get their advice. Your pet may need to stay in quarantine, so allowances must be made for this.

Step Five
Getting Yourself Connected. In order to be able to set up an electricity supply, you will need to provide proof of identity and employment. To set up a direct debit, a Spanish bank account in your name must be set up, with sufficient funds available to pay the bills.

The water suppliers work in a similar way to the electricity companies. Use the recent bills that the seller of the property will have given you to find out the name of the company who supplies your water. If you're wanting to have water supplied to a rural area, you may be subject to rules and regulations, to check this out from the local authority before signing anything.

Gas is still a major source of energy in Spain; the main form is in canisters, which are delivered to your home once you've called the supplier to arrange a delivery date.

For telephone connection, it's just a case of shopping around and finding yourself the best deal, then contacting the provider to get yourself set up. It's likely there will already be a telephone line in your property as telephones are hugely popular in Spain, if only for the internet.