Are you wondering why Spain should top the list of countries you should move to in Europe? Well, continue reading to learn some of the reasons why it is worth relocating to Spain.
Spain is among the top three most visited countries in the world. The country boasts of its vibrant nightlife, the wide variety of Spanish food and drink, majestic fortress, incredible lifestyle, convectional architecture, rich history, famous Spanish festivals, and blue and warm beaches, among other epic sceneries.
The country is admired by many foreign expats who chose it as a favorite retirement destination because of its great weather, splendid seaside, and relaxed way of living. Without further ado, here are ten great reasons you should move to Spain.
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Why is Spain One of the Best Countries to Live in?
Spain is one country you should visit at least once in your lifetime. It will take a couple of months before you visit every beautiful scenic spot in this country. The country has it all. Here are a few reasons you should consider living in Spain.
1. Fantastic Beach Life You Have Never Seen
If the beach life inspires you, you can live closer to a beach and visit it whenever you fancy. Also, be ready to experience an extensive coastline that runs for more than 5000 miles.
On the long journey from the Mediterranean Coasts to the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic Ocean, you will encounter great bumpy cliffs hugging the sea, pristine waters, and extensive shoreline.
The extensive beaches are one of the reasons why many people love to visit this country. During your tour along the shoreline, you will encounter some idyllic corners where you can swim and dive in the pristine waters and then laze in the sun to relax and dry.
Some of the beaches in Spain with deep pristineness include Berellin Beach in Cantabria, La Rijana Beach in Granada, Ses Illetes Beach in Formentera, and Cala Clip Beach in Girona.
2. Amazing Properties Deals
Spain is a large country that has a warm climate all year round. This action gives newcomers various choices when selecting the best place to live. If you want to purchase properties, expect to come across the conventional building, slightly, and new-build apartments.
Also, there are comprehensive options for impressive properties, and depending on your budget and what you want, you will choose an ideal home that suits your life in this new country. You can also organize a mortgage that uses the same process as in the UK.
3. Island Life
Spain has seven large islands and many smaller ones where you can choose to live. These islands are draped in stunning hues of blue and green. Also, most of them are surrounded by pristine waters and sandy beaches.
When you tour this place, be ready to gather your loved ones and make a trip to remember. During the tour, your family will be amazed by this destination’s outstanding beauty and resplendence. So, if you are not a fan of the mainland and major cities, you will have an array of beautiful islands to choose from and settle on.
4. All Year Sunshine
This factor is an undeniable one of the main reasons you should plan to move to Spain. The country has pretty favorable weather that entails 320 days of sunshine. This weather is a win for anyone who desires to spend much of their time relaxing outdoors.
5. Cost of Living
When you decide to move to Spain, unlike in other European countries, life in this country is less expensive. For instance, if you live in a big city, you will spend about $2000-2200 monthly. But you can adjust that budget downwards if you opt to live outside the large cities or in towns. So, depending on your income Spain will offer you a better quality of life.
6. The Cost of Food and Drinks
Spain has the most delicious and healthy foods, costing way less in the market. When you visit weekly markets for a grocery, on average, you can spend £200-300 monthly, depending on your needs.
The country is also a producer of good wines; with €5, you can find yourself a good bottle of wine. Also, your meal of the day tends to be more nutritious because of the adoption of a Mediterranean diet.
7. A Superb Healthcare System
When you move to Spain, expect top-notch universal healthcare coverage. The country ranks 19th on the Euro Consumer Health index, which is not bad. Whether you are an expatriate or a retiree, the government offers all residents universal health coverage.
Besides, you can also access private healthcare by subscribing to private healthcare insurance, which costs between €50-200 monthly.
8. Friendly Locals and Welcoming Culture
The Spanish people have a high regard for communal activities. These people understand the need for strong family commitment and strong community bonds. If you plan to move to this country, be ready to meet a welcoming community that will strive to know you as far as your well-being is concerned.
What could be more exciting than retiring in a society where everyone cares for each other? This action improves the quality of your health and social life.
9. Vibrant Spanish Festivals
In Spain, the famous Spanish festivals are known for their sheer ubiquity. When you visit each town, you will realize every city has its unique arrangement. Many of these festivals in Spain have a religious origin, although some are more like a raging party.
Some of these festivals include La Tomatina, Las Fallas, La Tamborrada, and the famous Pamplona Bull Run, among many bizarre festivals you will take part in Spain.
What are the Pros and Cons of Moving to Spain?
Before you move to a particular country, it is natural to understand the strengths and weaknesses of living in a region. Every place has its pros and cons, which is not exceptional to Spain. Here are the pros and cons.
Pros of Moving to Spain
- The country is very safe. Spain is one of the safest countries with a low violence level in Europe. It is rare to experience violent crime in any part of Spain.
- It has an outstanding work life balance. The country has a laid-back culture with a slower pace of life. You will experience long lunches coupled with an hour of siesta.
- Easy to travel internationally. In Spain, you can easily travel to other parts of Europe. Also, traveling locally across cities is convenient and accessible.
- Rich culture. The country boasts a fascinating history, diverse culture, and beautiful architecture. The Spanish love going out and there are lots of bars and nightlife.
Cons of Moving to Spain
- Long waits. Life in Spain is slower, and many businesses and people do not keep time nor adhere to a strict schedule. The morning can stretch to 2 p.m. while the afternoon can go till sunset.
- Language challenges. Not many people can speak fluent English. You will have to learn a new language if you are going to look for a job. Also, locals accept you better if you can communicate their way.
- Bureaucracy. To successfully move to Spain, you are required to fill out and complete the document. Registering with a couple of offices takes a couple of days.
Spanish Retirement Visa
Spain remains an attractive destination to many expatriates and persons looking to retire. The country offers an array of benefits such as affordable healthcare, an excellent climate, and a low living cost to people willing to retire in Spain.
When you are planning to move to Spain, you will first consider the type of Visa you need to apply for. If you are moving to Spain to retire, apply for a retirement visa. This type of Visa allows you to travel to Spain legally. The Visa is valid for years and renewable for additional years.
However, one of the requirements when applying for this Visa is to prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during the duration of your stay.
Types of Retirement Visa
When you want to move to Spain, you will have two Visa options. These types of Visa options are:
- The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa
- The Spain Golden Visa program
The Golden Visa Programs
This type of Visa is prevalent among wealthier travelers. The holder of this Visa can enjoy all the benefits of investing in Spain as they live there. To qualify for this, you must be ready to invest in real estate or buy a property in Spain, company creation, and bonds, among other forms of investment.
Golden Visa Requirements
For you to apply for this visa successfully, the Spanish government requires an applicant to meet the following requirements.
- You must be residing in a country outside the European Union.
- Be over 18 years and above
- Be in a position to procure private medical insurance in Spain
- Have a clean criminal record
- Prove your financial sufficiency to live in Spain
- Be in a position to raise the required corresponding investment fund. Here is the standard list of possible investment criteria.
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- To invest in real estate, you require 500,000 euros
- Buy shares of Spanish companies with amounts not less than one million euros.
- Invest in public debt with an amount not less than two million euros.
- Be in a position to start a business in Spain with the following qualities: create jobs, represent scientific novelty, and have a substantial impact on the county level.
Non-Lucrative Visa
This type of Visa is designed for non-European citizens who have the financial ability to live in Spain without working. The Visa remains one of the most popular among people who want to retire in Spain. NLV allows you to bring your entire family, provided you can meet their minimum financial requirement.
Final Thought
The beauty, culture, pristine beaches, and rich history make Spain a favorable place to move in. Besides, if you love a sunny coastal life, consider relocating to the costa del sol: a populated and most developed coastal strip in the Andalucia region.
If you are new in Spain, there are Facebook groups you can join to help you look for friends you share a commonality with. To retire in this country as a foreigner, you must apply either for a Spanish non-lucrative visa or a Golden visa. All you need is to meet the requirement, and you will be good to go.
