6–12 Months Before You Move to Spain
This is the strategic phase. Decisions you make now—especially regarding tax residency and financial timing—can save you thousands of euros and months of stress later.
Start Planning NowYour Key Steps
1. Craft Your Vision
Clarifying your vision now guides every bureaucratic and financial choice you’ll make in the next year.
- Define what “success” means for your move
- Visualize your perfect day in Spain
- Stress-test your lifestyle ideas (Coastal vs. Urban)
2. Immigration Options
Determine which visa fits your financial reality. Each has different income thresholds and documentation timelines.
- Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): For retirees or passive income.
- Digital Nomad Visa (DNV): For remote workers (offers tax perks).
- Student Visa: For those pursuing Spanish education.
3. Strategy: Taxes & Wealth
Crucial: When you move determines when you pay. Tax residency is based on spending 183+ days in Spain.
- The July Rule: Arriving after July 1st may delay your Spanish tax residency until the following year.
- Wealth Audit: Meet an advisor before selling your home or stocks to minimize capital gains tax.
- Assets: Understand how your home-country Social Security or 401k is taxed in Spain.
4. Relocation Budget
Living in Spain is often cheaper, but the cost of moving is frequently underestimated.
- Budget for Visa Fees & Sworn Translations.
- Include Private Health Insurance (required for most visas).
- Plan a Financial Safety Net for the first 6 months.
5. Connect with the Community
Join those who have already made the leap. Their real-time experience is more valuable than any official handbook.
- Ask about specific neighborhood safety and vibe.
- Find out which consulates are currently fastest.
- Get referrals for reliable lawyers and agents.
6. Research & Scouting Trips
Never sign a long-term lease sight unseen. Plan a “Journey of Exploration” rather than a vacation.
- Visit hospitals and schools in your target area.
- Check transport links (High-speed trains/Airports).
- Timing: Avoid scouting in August—most of Spain is on holiday!
7. Start Spanish (Today)
The #1 regret? Not taking Spanish seriously sooner. Fluency is the key to enjoying daily life and navigating bureaucracy.
- Focus on Practical Verbs and daily interactions.
- Learn Castellano specifically (vs. Latin American Spanish).
- Prepare for phone calls (utilities, deliveries, doctors).
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