3–6 Months Before You Move to Spain
Now that you’ve started planning, it’s time to prepare your documents, secure health insurance, and make sure everything is ready for your visa application. These are essential steps for a smooth relocation.
Start Preparing DocumentsYour Key Steps
1. Create Your Timeline
A clear plan will keep you focused. Think about your goals, your ideal arrival date, and which steps you’ll need to take and when. This is where your move starts becoming real.
- Set your target moving month and work backwards
- Identify Milestones and tasks
- Use project management tools to keep track of your progress
Trello Project Management Tool →
2. Select Your Visa & Gather Documents
Choose the visa that best matches your lifestyle and eligibility. Begin gathering official documents required for your application.
- Decide which Spanish visa is right for you (NLV, Digital Nomad, Student…)
- Start preparing: background check, birth/marriage certificates, finances
- Translate with sworn translators and legalize with apostilles
Apostille Services →
Professional Visa Services →
3. Determine Your Healthcare Needs
Health insurance is mandatory for most Spanish visas. Make sure you choose a compliant plan and get a medical certificate if required.
- Choose between private insurance (zero copay) or public access (if eligible)
- Ensure full coverage with no deductibles
- Get a medical certificate from a certified doctor (valid 3 months)
Visa Compliant Health insurance & Medical Certificate →
UK retiree? Get access to public healthcare in Spain (S1) →
4. Start the Visa Application Process
Once your documents and insurance are in place, you’re ready to submit your visa application.
- Book your appointment at your Spanish consulate
- Fill out the visa form(s) and organize your paperwork
- Make copies and prepare a clean, complete submission
5. Plan Your Move
With your application underway, it’s time to begin logistical planning for your arrival.
- Book your flight and decide what to bring or ship
- Arrange accommodation for your first months
- Align arrival in Spain with Immigration and Tax requirements and strategies
SendMyBag Shipping Service →
Compare International Moving Quotes →
Selling your house? Avoid CGT in Spain (Video) →
Need personalized help?
Send us an email at hello@spainguru.es and we’ll guide you through your moving to Spain journey.