Moving to Spain? Your Ultimate Relocation Checklist for 2025

We offer a curated selection of legal, fully furnished rentals across Spain – perfect for digital nomads, remote workers, and relocating families.
With Globexs, you benefit from:

✔ Flexible rental contracts (1 to 11 months)
✔ Fully furnished apartments with all utilities included
✔ Prime locations in major European cities
✔ Corporate housing solutions tailored for business professionals
✔ Hassle-free rental process with no hidden fees

Check available properties

Step 5: Look for Accommodation – done ✅ You’ve found your home in Spain — now let’s make sure your healthcare is covered.

Step 6: Arrange Health Insurance

Whether you're staying in Spain for a few months or settling down long-term, health insurance is a non-negotiable requirement — especially if you’re applying for a visa or residency permit.

Do I Need Health Insurance in Spain?

Yes — if you're a non-EU citizen applying for any type of visa (digital nomad, non-lucrative, student, etc.), you are required to show proof of private health insurance that meets strict criteria:

• Must provide full coverage in Spain

• No co-payments (sin copago)

• Must be from a company authorized to operate in Spain

• Minimum duration: one year

Public vs. Private Healthcare

Public Healthcare

If you become a legal resident and start contributing to Spanish social security (e.g., as an employee or self-employed worker), you can access Spain's excellent public healthcare system.
But this doesn’t apply until after you’ve registered and started working — which is why most newcomers need private coverage first.

Private Healthcare

Private health insurance gives you:

• Faster appointments and shorter waiting times

• Access to English-speaking doctors and clinics

• Peace of mind during the immigration process

Plans typically start around €40–€100/month, depending on age and coverage level.

Choose the Right Policy for Your Visa

Not all private policies are accepted by immigration offices. Make sure your insurance:

• Is issued by a recognized provider in Spain

• Includes hospitalization and general medical coverage

• Covers the full length of your intended stay

Step 6: Arrange Health Insurance – done ✅ You're now covered — in every sense!

Step 7: Set Up Utilities and Internet

If you’re renting a fully furnished apartment with bills included, you can skip this step — and with Globexs rentals, that’s often the case.
But if you're renting a long-term flat without utilities included, or if you've purchased a property in Spain, you'll need to set up water, electricity, gas, and internet yourself.

Here’s how the process works.

Electricity (Electricidad)

Most homes in Spain are powered by the national electricity grid. You can either take over an existing contract or start a new one if the property is empty.

Major providers:

• Iberdrola – www.iberdrola.es

• Endesa – www.endesa.com

• Naturgy – www.naturgy.es

• Repsol – www.repsol.com

Average monthly cost: €50–€100 depending on consumption, size of home, and time-of-use tariff.

Gas (Gas Natural)

Many urban apartments use natural gas for hot water or heating. In some cases, gas is bottled (especially in rural areas).

Gas suppliers:

• Same providers as electricity: Iberdrola, Endesa, Naturgy, Repsol

• Also check local gas installers (especially for bottled gas – “butano”)

Average monthly cost: €30–€60

Water (Agua)

Water is managed locally by each city’s municipal provider, not private companies.
You’ll usually need to:

• Provide your NIE

• Submit a utility bill and rental contract

• Schedule a meter reading or connection

Examples of city providers:

• Emivasa (Valencia) – www.emivasa.es

• Canal Isabel II (Madrid) – www.canaldeisabelsegunda.es

• Agbar (Barcelona) – www.agbar.es

Average monthly cost: €20–€40

Internet and Mobile

Spain offers high-speed internet (up to 1Gbps in cities) and good 4G/5G coverage.

Major providers:

• Movistar – www.movistar.es

• Vodafone – www.vodafone.es

• Orange – www.orange.es

• MásMóvil / Yoigo – www.masmovil.es

Internet packages: €30–€60/month
Mobile plans: €10–€30/month (data included)

To sign up, you'll usually need:

• NIE number

• Spanish bank account

• Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)

Prefer a Hands-Off Approach?

At Globexs, we offer an all-in-one rental solution:
✔ Utilities
✔ Internet
✔ Furniture
✔ Legal rental contracts
✔ Empadronamiento-friendly properties

So if you’re renting with Globexs, you can skip this step completely. We’ve got it all covered.

Step 7: Set Up Utilities and Internet – done ✅  With your home connected and online, you're ready to handle practical daily life in Spain.

Step 8: Moving to Spain? Open a Spanish Bank Account

If you plan to stay in Spain for more than a few weeks — especially if you're renting long-term, applying for residency, or setting up utilities — opening a Spanish bank account will make your life much easier.

Why You Need a Spanish Bank Account

Having a local account helps you:

• Pay rent and utility bills

• Receive income (if working or invoicing in Spain)

• Set up direct debits (for mobile, internet, etc.)

• Avoid international transfer fees

💡 Some landlords, insurance providers, and even immigration offices may require a Spanish bank accountfor documentation.

What You Need to Open One

Requirements can vary by bank and region, but generally you’ll need:

• Valid passport or national ID

• NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)

• Proof of address in Spain (e.g. rental contract)

• Proof of income or employment (sometimes requested)

• Tax identification number from your home country (NIF)

If you're still waiting for your residency or NIE, some banks also offer non-resident accounts.

Top Banks in Spain

Traditional Banks:

• CaixaBank – www.caixabank.es

• Banco Santander – www.bancosantander.es

• BBVA – www.bbva.es

• Sabadell – www.bancsabadell.com

Online / Fintech Banks:

• N26 – www.n26.com

• Revolut – www.revolut.com

• Wise (TransferWise) – www.wise.com

Note: Not all online banks are accepted for official paperwork (e.g., visa, empadronamiento).

Need Help?

The Globexs team can guide you through the process of opening a bank account.

Step 8: Open a Spanish Bank Account – done ✅ Your financial foundation in Spain is set! Now let’s talk about one of your most powerful relocation tools: language.

Step 9: Learn Basic Spanish

While many Spaniards in major cities speak some English — especially in tourist areas — daily life becomes much easier and more enjoyable when you speak a bit of Spanish. Even basic communication can go a long way in building connections, solving problems, and feeling at home.

By the way, here’s a great tip:
If you're part of the Globexs community, you’ll enjoy a range of exclusive benefits — including free access to Spanish language lessons to help you settle in faster.

Why Learning Spanish Matters

• Helps you navigate local services (banks, healthcare, transport)

• Makes bureaucracy less intimidating

• Shows respect to the culture and people

• Helps you connect with neighbors, shop owners, and locals

• Boosts your chances of employment or integration long-term

🇪🇸 Even knowing how to say “hola,” “gracias,” and “¿puedes ayudarme?” can make a big difference in everyday life.

How to Get Started

Language Apps:

• Duolingo – gamified and fun

• Babbel – focused on practical conversation

• LingQ – great for listening and vocabulary

• Italki / Preply – connect with real teachers for 1-on-1 online lessons

Local Language Schools (in-person)

In most cities, you’ll find Spanish language academies offering group or private classes.
You can even join city-run free or low-cost courses for new residents.

Community Practice:

• Join local language exchanges (intercambios)

• Attend events, meetups, or co-working spaces where Spanish is spoken

• Practice with Spanish roommates or neighbors if you're in a Flex Living apartment

Focus on Everyday Phrases

Start with:

• Greetings and introductions

• Asking for help

• Shopping and restaurants

• Directions and transportation

• Basic bureaucracy terms (e.g. cita previa, empadronamiento, factura)

💡 Be sure to check out the Globexs Community page to see what other bonuses you have access to — free Spanish lessons are just the beginning!

This makes communication easy and helps clients from different backgrounds feel comfortable and supported throughout the relocation process. Step 9: Learn Basic Spanish – done ✅  You’re now ready to interact, connect, and  thrive in your new environment.

Step 10: Get a Local SIM Card

Having a Spanish phone number is essential for everyday life — from opening a bank account to receiving NIE appointment confirmations and accessing local services.

Why You Need a Local SIM When Moving to Spain

• Required for many online registrations (government sites, banks, deliveries)

• Helps avoid roaming charges

• Essential for using public service apps, WhatsApp with locals, mobile banking, and more

• Often requested when signing rental agreements, utilities, or health insurance

Prepaid vs. Contract

Prepaid (Prepago):

• No paperwork required

• Great for short stays or tourists

• Recharge online or in shops

Contract (Contrato):

• Better long-term value

• Often includes data + calls + fiber internet deals

• Requires:

  • NIE number

  • Spanish bank account

  • Proof of address

Major Mobile Providers in Spain

Top national coverage  Movistar

Good data plans  Vodafone

Often bundles mobile + fiber Orange

Popular with expats Yoigo

Simple prepaid & flexible plans Lowi, Simyo, Pepephone

You can buy SIMs at physical stores, airports, tech shops like MediaMarkt, or order online with passport upload.

Globexs Tip

Many of our clients start with a prepaid SIM upon arrival, then switch to a full plan once their NIE and bank account are ready.
If you’re staying in a Globexs Flex Living apartment, roommates or hosts can often share local insights on the best providers in the area.

Step 10: Get a Local SIM Card – done ✅  Now you’re connected — ready to book appointments, stay in touch, and live like a local.

Step 11: Understand Transportation Options When Moving to Spain

Getting around in Spain is easy, affordable, and efficient — whether you’re staying in a big city or planning weekend trips across the country.

Public Transportation in Cities

Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville have excellent public transport networks:

• Metro / Subway – Fastest way to move across big cities

• Buses – Widely available, including night routes

• Trams – Common in cities like Valencia, Zaragoza, and Alicante

• Suburban trains (Cercanías) – Great for commuting to/from suburbs

Most cities use rechargeable transport cards (e.g., Abono in Madrid, TuiN in Valencia) that can be topped up monthly or per trip.

Monthly pass cost: €20–€55, depending on zones and age.

Intercity & Regional Travel

Spain’s national rail network (Renfe) offers:

• High-speed trains (AVE) – Fast and comfortable for long distances (e.g. Madrid–Barcelona in ~2.5 hrs)

• Media Distancia / Regional Express – Slower, cheaper trains for regional travel

Tickets: www.renfe.com

Tip: Book early for AVE trains to get cheaper fares!

Car Rental & Driving

If you plan to explore smaller towns or rural areas, renting a car might be useful.

• Spain drives on the right-hand side

• EU licenses are accepted

• Non-EU licenses may require an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Parking can be tricky in cities — many expats rely on public transport or car-sharing services instead.

Bike & Scooter Sharing

Cities like Valencia, Barcelona, and Madrid have excellent bike paths and eco-friendly options:

• Rent a bike or an e-scooter (Valencia) – www.bikealao.com

• Valenbisi (Valencia) – www.valenbisi.es

• Bicing (Barcelona) – www.bicing.barcelona

• Electric scooters from apps like Lime, Bird, or Tier

Domestic Flights

For longer trips (e.g. to the Canary Islands), domestic airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and Ryanair offer low-cost options.

Step 11: Understand Transportation Options – done ✅ Now you’re ready to explore the city — or the whole country — like a local.

Step 12: Explore Spanish Culture & Local Customs

Moving to Spain isn’t just about logistics — it’s about embracing a new lifestyle. The more you understand and enjoy Spanish culture, the more fulfilling your relocation experience will be.

Embrace the Spanish Way of Life

Spain is known for its relaxed pace, vibrant traditions, and strong community spirit. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Time & Daily Rhythm

• Lunch: 2–3 PM | Dinner: 9–10 PM

• Many businesses close during siesta hours (around 2–5 PM), especially in smaller towns

• Social life often happens late — don’t be surprised by 10 PM dinner invites!

Greetings & Formalities

• A kiss on each cheek (dos besos) is a common greeting, even in semi-formal settings

• Use “usted” for formal situations, and “tú” with friends or peers

• Being polite and friendly is always appreciated — even a simple “buenos días” can go a long way

Dive Into Local Traditions

Every region has its own festivals, foods, and customs — from Fallas in Valencia to Feria in Seville.

Don’t miss:

• Tapas nights

• Weekly markets (mercadillos)

• Local holidays (many shops close!)

• Regional dishes — paella isn’t the same everywhere

At Globexs, we believe relocation is not just a move — it’s a cultural adventure.

Respect Cultural Differences

Moving to Spain? Then you’ll quickly notice that culture, habits, and communication styles may be different from what you're used to — and that’s part of the beauty.

• Spain is diverse — with different co-official languages (Catalan, Basque, Galician) and strong regional identities

• Bureaucracy may feel slow — but things usually get done eventually

• Punctuality is flexible in social settings, but more expected for formal appointments

Step 12: Explore Spanish Culture & Local Customs – done ✅ You’re not just living in Spain — you’re living like a Spaniard. Now let’s take a look at what to do if you’re moving with your family.

Step 13: Enroll Children in School (for families)

If you're relocating with kids, Spain offers both public and private education options — including international schools for expat families.

School Options:

• Public schools – Free, Spanish-speaking, and available to legal residents

• Concertado schools – Semi-private, partly subsidized by the government

• Private/International schools – Tuition-based, often bilingual or English-speaking

What You’ll Need:

• NIE number (for parent and child)

• Proof of address (empadronamiento)

• Child’s birth certificate and immunization records

• School application forms

💡 Most schools operate on a September–June calendar. Enrollment typically opens in spring.

If you're staying temporarily, international schools offer flexible admissions and multilingual education.

Step 13: Enroll Children in School – done ✅ With your child’s education sorted, let’s focus on the next big step: your career.

Step 14: How to Find Work in Spain

If you're not coming with a job already in hand, there are plenty of ways to build your career in Spain — whether you're an employee or a freelancer.

Options for Working in Spain

As an Employee:

Search through:

• Job portals: InfoJobs, LinkedIn, Indeed España

• International companies based in Spain

• Recruiters in tech, tourism, teaching, and customer service

• Coworking hubs with hiring boards

✅ Minimum wage in Spain (SMI) in 2025: approx. €1,134/month (gross) for full-time work (14 payments per year).

As a Freelancer (Autónomo):

Many Globexs clients are remote workers or digital freelancers. In Spain, that means registering as an autónomo (self-employed).

Moving to Spain as a Freelancer? Here's What You Need to Become an Autónomo

To register:

• NIE number

• Spanish bank account

• Social Security number

• Tax office registration (Modelo 036 or 037)

Once registered, you’ll be responsible for:

• Monthly social security contributions

• Issuing invoices with proper tax (IVA, IRPF)

• Quarterly and annual tax filings

How Much Does It Cost to Be Autónomo?

Social Security Contributions (Cuota de autónomo)

In 2025, Spain uses a progressive quota system based on your income:

Net Income per Month – Estimated Monthly Payment

Up to €670  – €230 (reduced minimum)

€1,700–€2,300 – €320–€400

€4,000+ – €500–€600+

💡 New autónomos often get reduced rates ("tarifa plana") during the first 12–24 months.

Taxes as Autónomo

• IVA (VAT): 21% standard (you collect and pay this quarterly)

• IRPF (Income tax): Usually 7%–15% retained at source or paid quarterly

• Annual declaración de la renta (income tax return) in spring

It’s strongly recommended to work with a gestor (accountant) — and yes, Globexs can connect you with trusted ones.

Good to Know

• You can be employed and autónomo at the same time (pluriactividad)

• Some professions (e.g. creatives, consultants) are very autónomo-friendly

• If you invoice foreign clients, you may benefit from reverse charge VAT rules

Step 14: How to Find Work in Spain – done ✅ You’ve laid the foundation for your life and career in Spain. Now let’s talk about how Globexs continues to support you after you arrive. 

Step 15: Moving to Spain? How Globexs Supports You Beyond the Move

Relocation doesn’t end once you arrive — that’s where Globexs truly shines.

Here’s how we continue to support you after you’ve landed:

✔ Help with renewing visas and legal paperwork
✔ Switching cities with Flex Living (no need for a new contract!)
✔ Ongoing legal advice and documentation support
✔ A growing network of local partners, coworking spaces, and services
✔ Personalized relocation coaching and consulting
✔ Human contact — real people who care about your journey

We don’t just find you a place to live. We help you belong.

🌍 Globexs is your relocation partner in Spain — before, during, and after the move.

🎉 Your Relocation to Spain – Complete!
From choosing your city to feeling truly at home, you’ve walked through every step with clarity and purpose.
Now, all that’s left is to live your Spanish adventure.
Welcome to your new life. ¡Bienvenido a España!