Moving to Spain: the checklist

Before you go

1. Choose your route: EU free movement, digital nomad visa, non-lucrative visa, work permit, student visa or family route.
2. Gather documents: criminal record certificates (apostilled, translated), birth and marriage certificates, degree certificates, proof of income.
3. Health insurance: private cover if your visa requires it.
4. Visit first if you can, and pick a town (try our town matcher).
5. Tax advice: understand when you become tax resident and what happens to your pension, investments and property at home.

First month in Spain

6. Find a home: a temporary rental first is often wise (renting guide).
7. Register on the padrón.
8. Non-EU: apply for your TIE within one month of arrival. EU: get your registration certificate if staying over three months.
9. Open a bank account.
10. Register with a health centre (healthcare guide).

First six months

11. Exchange or replace your driving licence if required.
12. Sort schools: state school places are allocated by address; international schools need early applications.
13. Get a digital certificate (certificado digital) or Cl@ve: it lets you do most paperwork online.
14. If working for yourself, register as autónomo.

First tax year

15. If you spent over 183 days in Spain, you are tax resident: file a Spanish return in spring, and declare foreign assets over €50,000 (Modelo 720) unless you use the Beckham regime.