A Guide to Moving to Spain From the US

Gorgeous beaches, rich culture and delicious food are just a handful of reasons why many people are moving to Spain from the US. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, and Spain's magnetic charm draws in people from all over the world. If you're planning a move to Spain from the US, partnering with Atlas International will streamline the process. We're a leader in the global moving industry, and our seasoned experts are standing by to assist with your transition. 

Why Spain Beckons: From the US to Iberian Shores

Whether your international move to Spain is for business or pleasure, rest assured you’ll feel right at home in this warm, welcoming country. The cost of living in Spain is significantly lower than in the US, and each city has its own unique vibe and personality. Expats appreciate Spain’s relaxed atmosphere, and hospitable locals make every visitor feel right at home.

Essential Insights for Americans Moving to Spain

From applying for visas and calculating moving costs to determining which lovely Spanish city to call home, there are many steps to take when planning a move from the US to Spain. Understanding the unique aspects of an international move and hiring Atlas International as your international moving specialist can help ensure you're fully prepared for the big day.

Navigating the Visa Process

All visitors who plan to stay in Spain for more than 90 days must apply for a Visa. The Golden Visa and Non-Lucrative Visa are the two essential visa types in Spain, and each type has different requirements:

• Golden Visa: The Golden Visa allows investors to reside in Spain in exchange for a financial investment. After 10 years, investors may be eligible for citizenship.
• Non-Lucrative Visa: A Non-Lucrative Visa allows visitors to reside in Spain without working in a professional capacity. Individuals who travel to Spain with the financial means to live comfortably for extended periods of time often apply for these visas.

Required visa application documents include:

• National Visa application forms
• Recent photograph
• Valid passport
• Documented proof of financial means (paycheck stubs, bank statements, etc.)

Understanding the Cost of Living in Spain

Compared to the US, Spain has a low cost of living. In major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, expats can rent a one-bedroom apartment for anywhere between $880 to $1,320 per month. On average, American expats working in Spain can make a yearly salary between $44,000 USD and $77,000 USD. However, salary can vary based on industry and experience.

It's also important to know that cost of living can vary per region. For example, living in Ibiza or Bilbao may be more expensive due to their nature as tourist hotspots.

Choosing Your Spanish Haven: Where to Call Home

Barcelona, Madrid and Valencia are some of the most popular destinations that Spain expats call home. Some of the most common cities Americans choose to immigrate to are:

• Barcelona: Beautiful beaches, versatile cuisine and an excellent transportation system make Barcelona a favorite among expats. The cost of living is considered fair and affordable, and the city is known for its diverse population of over 1.6 million people from around the world. 
• Madrid: The capital city has the largest population of expats in Spain, thanks to its abundance of work opportunities and exciting nightlife/social scene. Expats in this city enjoy a true sense of community. 
• Valencia: Located on Spain's eastern coast, Valencia offers a balmy Mediterranean climate, allowing expats to enjoy the outdoors throughout the seasons. The city is known for its laid-back lifestyle, rich local cuisine and cultural events. 

Life in Spain: What to Expect

Moving to Spain or any country outside the US can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, and adapting to an entirely new way of life can take some time. Understanding the subtle differences in areas such as health care, housing and education can help you ease into the transition. 

• Health Care: While Spain has a public health care system, most expats from the US utilize private health plans. Spanish visas generally require Americans to have private insurance, which helps guarantee immediate access to health care upon arrival in Spain. Private insurance providers generally offer benefits such as bilingual physicians and faster appointments and medical procedures. 
• Housing: If you’re planning to purchase a home in Spain, you’ll need to apply for a Spanish tax identification number (NIE). It’s also a good idea to enlist the services of a local real estate lawyer to help guide you through the process. For renters, long-term leases have a 1-year minimum, while short-term leases are between 1 and 11 months.
• Education: Colleges in Spain offer bachelor, master, and doctorate degree programs. Spanish universities are considered more theoretical than polytechnic universities. Spain is also home to many bilingual international business schools.

Selecting the Right Moving Partner

Choosing the right moving partner for your international move is essential in ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted transition. With over six decades of experience, Atlas International is a leader in the global moving industry. Our seasoned relocation agents provide customized moving solutions for individuals and families, and you can count on them for expert guidance throughout the entire process. 

Your Journey to Spain: Step-by-Step Guide With Atlas International

Between the initial planning phase and arrival at your new destination, there are many areas to cover with your international move. The Atlas team will be there every step of the way to ensure your transition goes smoothly, from the initial consultation to the final shipment of items to your new home. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect when you choose Atlas as your international moving company: 

• Consultation: During your initial consultation, our international relocation experts conduct a premove survey to provide an accurate, no-obligation quote and moving estimate. We recommend contacting us at least 90 days before your move. Your agent will also advise on the logistics of transporting your cargo from the US to Spain. 
• Packing and loading your items: Our packing team will carefully pack your items and prepare everything for international shipping. We provide all packing materials, and our packers label and seal every box to ensure optimal safety during the shipping process. Once packed, your items will be loaded into sturdy wood containers or a single steel ocean container, depending on load size. Then, Atlas will transport your load to the port of departure. From there, your items will be shipped to Spain via aircraft or water vessel. 
• Customs clearance: When your shipment arrives in Spain, the local customs authority will process and clear your items for transfer to an Atlas-selected international moving crew. The crew will transport your household items to their final destination, and they’ll even help you unpack. We can also ship your items to a storage facility if you need more time to get acclimated to your new home and surroundings. 

Smoothly Adapt to Spanish Life

After your boxes are unpacked and you’re settled into your home, it's time to get acclimated to your new life. These tips will help you ease into Spanish culture and adapt to your new environment and community:

• Engage with expat communities: The expat community in Spain makes up approximately 15% of the total population, and it continues to grow. Getting to know fellow expats is a great way to learn more about Spanish culture and the local social scene. They'll also be able to help navigate the educational and health care systems.
• Navigate local customs: Spain is known worldwide for its casual, laid-back energy and overall zest for life. Take some time to indulge in local food, go wine tasting or take a flamenco dancing class. Learning about local customs can help you gain insight into Spanish culture, and you may even meet some new local friends.
• Explore Spain’s historical sites and landscapes: From coastal communities and the picturesque beaches lining the Mediterranean Sea to Plaza Mayor and the ancient Segovia aqueduct, Spain is rich in both beauty and history. Explore your new environment and become immersed in everything Spain has to offer.

Embrace Spain’s Charms: Let Atlas International Guide Your Journey

If you’re planning a move to Spain from the US or thinking about moving from Spain to the US, look no further than Atlas International. We have over 60 years of experience in global moves and an ample global supplier network. Our bilingual moving specialists are standing by to assist with your move from start to finish. Contact us for a tailored moving quote and consultation today.