Arriving in Spain is an exciting milestone, whether you’re moving permanently, staying for studies, or beginning a new professional chapter. However, the first days and weeks can also feel overwhelming due to the many administrative tasks and legal requirements that must be completed. To help you navigate the process smoothly, this guide outlines the first steps upon arrival in Spain, from declaring your entry to joining your local community.
These steps are essential for non-EU nationals, but many are also relevant for EU citizens who plan to settle in Spain for more than a few months.
Why the First Steps Upon Arrival in Spain Matter
Your initial actions in Spain will determine how quickly you can integrate into the local system. Completing the paperwork early ensures you have legal proof of residence, access to healthcare, and the ability to sign contracts or open bank accounts. Skipping or delaying them can create unnecessary obstacles later on.
Step 1: Declare Your Entry
If you entered Spain via another Schengen country and did not receive a Spanish entry stamp in your passport, it is recommended that you file a Declaración de Entrada within 72 hours at a Policía Nacional office.
- Purpose: Confirms the official date of entry into Spain.
- Why it matters: Required for applying for residency or a foreigner identity card (TIE).
- Tip: Bring your passport, visa (if applicable), and travel documents.
Step 2: Register Your Address (Empadronamiento)
Registering with your local town hall—known as empadronamiento—is one of the most important steps after arrival.
- Documents required: Passport, visa, and rental contract or property deed.
- Why it’s important:
- Proves your address for administrative purposes
- Needed for TIE applications, school enrollment, and healthcare registration
- Serves as proof of residence for tax and legal matters
Step 3: Apply for Your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card)
Non-EU citizens staying long-term must apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE). This card contains your NIE (foreigner ID number) and validates your legal residency.
- Where to apply: Policía Nacional or designated immigration offices
- Documents required: Visa, passport, empadronamiento, and supporting paperwork
- Tip: Book your appointment (cita previa) online as early as possible, as wait times can be long.
Step 4: Open a Spanish Bank Account
A Spanish bank account is essential for paying rent, managing bills, and receiving income.
- Requirements: Passport, NIE or proof of application, and address registration
- Options:
- Traditional banks such as Santander, BBVA, and CaixaBank (branch access, in-person support)
- Digital banks like Wise or N26 (flexible, English support, often faster setup)
- Advice: Compare fees and services before committing, as they vary significantly.
Step 5: Get a Spanish Phone Number
A local mobile number is needed for daily life, from bank verifications to scheduling government appointments.
- Prepaid SIM cards: Flexible and ideal for newcomers or short stays.
- Contracts: Lower costs long-term but usually require NIE and a Spanish bank account.
- Dual SIM/eSIM options: Allow you to keep your home-country number active for essential calls or two-factor authentication.
Related reads:
Step 6: Register with the Healthcare System
Healthcare in Spain is high-quality, but access depends on your residency status and visa type.
- Public healthcare: Available to residents once they are registered with their local health center (Centro de Salud) using empadronamiento and NIE.
- Private healthcare: Required for many visa types (such as the non-lucrative visa) until public eligibility is confirmed.
- Tip: Even if you expect to qualify for public care, maintain private insurance during the transition period.
Step 7: Apply for a Digital Certificate
The Certificado Digital is your electronic ID for Spain’s government services.
- Why it’s important:
- File taxes online
- Sign official documents
- Manage residency or social security procedures from home
- Requirements: NIE/TIE and a verified application process through the FNMT (National Mint).
How to Get a Digital Certificate in Spain: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 8: Secure Long-Term Housing
Once your initial paperwork is underway, focus on housing.
- Furnished rentals: Common in large cities and expat hubs, ideal for shorter commitments.
- Unfurnished rentals: More typical for long-term leases, often requiring you to furnish from scratch.
- Contracts: Most leases are for 12 months and require 1–2 months’ deposit plus proof of income.
- Tip: You will need a NIE to sign a rental contract, so begin your TIE application promptly.
Step 9: Organize Transportation
Spain’s public transportation system is affordable and efficient.
- Cities: Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia offer extensive metro and bus systems.
- Smaller towns: Rely more on buses and regional trains.
- Driving: Some foreign licenses are valid temporarily, but long-term residents often need to exchange their license for a Spanish one.
Step 10: Start Integrating into Spanish Life
Legal and financial steps are only part of settling in. To truly feel at home:
- Learn Spanish: Even basic knowledge helps with daily interactions and paperwork.
- Join local communities: From language exchanges to expat groups, networking makes adaptation easier.
- Adopt Spanish rhythms: Adjust to later mealtimes, cultural traditions, and regional customs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After Arrival in Spain
- Delaying empadronamiento, which blocks access to services.
- Forgetting to book cita previa appointments well in advance, especially to obtain the TIE Card.
- Assuming all regions follow the same procedures (requirements vary).
- Not maintaining private health insurance while waiting for public registration.
Looking Beyond the First Steps
Completing the first steps upon arrival in Spain sets the foundation for your new life. Once the basics are in place, you can begin exploring long-term goals such as:
- Applying for permanent residency
- Buying property in Spain
- Establishing tax residency
- Pursuing Spanish citizenship after the qualifying period
Spainguru’s Move to Spain checklist
To make these first steps upon arrival in Spain easier, Spainguru has created a detailed Move to Spain Checklist. This step-by-step guide covers everything from visa preparation and healthcare to housing, finances, and local registrations. It’s designed to help newcomers stay organized at every stage of their relocation journey and avoid the common pitfalls that many expats face during their first weeks and months in Spain.
Conclusion
The first steps upon arrival in Spain may seem bureaucratic, but they are essential for building a stable and secure life in your new country. By declaring your entry, registering your address, applying for your TIE, opening a bank account, and setting up healthcare and communications, you’ll not only comply with Spanish law but also make daily life far smoother.
With these foundations established, you can focus on enjoying Spain’s culture, lifestyle, and opportunities with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions: First Steps Upon Arrival in Spain
1. What are the very first steps upon arrival in Spain?
The first steps include declaring your entry (if you entered via another Schengen country), registering your address at the local town hall (empadronamiento), and booking an appointment to apply for your TIE (foreigner ID card). These actions establish your legal presence in Spain and unlock access to essential services.
2. Do I need to declare my entry if I already have a Spanish visa?
Yes, in some cases it is recommended to do it. If you enter Spain through another Schengen country and don’t receive a Spanish entry stamp, make sure to get a signed Declaración de Entrada within 72 hours from a National Police Stations to prove your official date of entry. If you enter from outside Schengen, this is not necessary.
3. What documents do I need for empadronamiento?
You typically need your passport, visa or residence permit, and a rental contract (usually longer than 6 months) or property deed. Requirements may vary slightly by region and even town hall, so it’s best to confirm with your local town hall.
4. How soon should I apply for my TIE card?
You should apply for your TIE as soon as possible after arrival. Appointments (cita previa) are difficult to secure everywhere in Spain, so it’s best to book online immediately. The TIE card contains your NIE number and confirms your residency status.
5. Can I open a Spanish bank account without a TIE?
Yes, some banks allow you to open an account with just your passport and proof of address. However, many require your NIE/TIE, especially for long-term accounts or credit services.
6. Is private health insurance mandatory?
For many visa types, such as the non-lucrative visa or digital nomad visa, private health insurance may be required, although there are exceptions. Once registered in Spain with your empadronamiento and TIE, you may be eligible to access the public healthcare system via the Convenio Especial, an S1 form (UK retirees) or if you have permission to work, paying the Spanish social security.
7. How do I get a Spanish phone number?
You can buy a prepaid SIM card with your passport or sign up for a contract once you have a NIE and Spanish bank account. Many newcomers start with prepaid options for flexibility.
8. Do procedures vary depending on where I live in Spain?
Yes. While the main requirements are nationwide, the process for empadronamiento, TIE appointments, visa renewals and certain documents can differ by province. Always check local rules.
9. What if I don’t complete these first steps upon arrival in Spain?
Delaying can cause issues: you may not be able to apply for residency on time, access healthcare, or sign a rental contract. Completing the first steps promptly avoids bureaucratic problems.
10. Where can I find a step-by-step guide?
Spainguru offers a detailed Move to Spain Checklist that covers every stage of your relocation, from planning months in advance to completing all the key first steps upon arrival in Spain.
Disclaimer: This guide to the first steps upon arrival in Spain is an approximation based on common procedures followed by most newcomers. Specific requirements can vary depending on your visa type, immigration status, region, and personal circumstances. Always verify with official Spanish authorities or consult a qualified immigration lawyer for personalized guidance.
