By Adam Woodward •
Published: 29 Nov 2024 • 20:39
• 2 minutes read
The Spanish expat community is estimated to be around 5.6 million, with the number set to increase due to the warm climate and relaxed lifestyle of the country.
However, for most non-Spanish speakers, it won’t last with many who decide to move back to their native countries only a couple of years into their new experience. Reasons can be many, but mostly, loneliness and frustration with how things work are the most commonly mentioned. Managing expectations, careful preparation, and research are essential. Most leaps of faith end up in falls, as the emigration experiment was not what these expats were expecting at all.
Do I have to learn Spanish?
To make the transition to Spain as an expat, it is essential to learn some Spanish before moving, not just from a phone app but actually important everyday functional language. Spanish is considered one of the highest-context languages in Europe, which means that things are said not only between the lines but also using quirky metaphors. The common and somewhat vulgar term me cago en la mar’ doesn’t mean literally. It’s simply an expression of frustration, for example.
Before moving, prepare for bureaucracy in Spain, as expats will need to apply for various items of paperwork, such as a NIE (foreigner s ID number), your empadronamiento (registering your address), and possibly a digital certificate for your computer so that you can access forms and documents from local authorities.
In August, don’t expect to be able to find a plumber, kitchen fitter, and all the shops and services to be operating, as this is the time when most take their holidays.
Where to find a good restaurant
If you are looking to dine out, you’ll be hard pressed to find anything more substantial than an American fast food chain before 2pm, or between 4pm and 8pm as the day runs later than most other European countries. Also, as so many eat out at restaurants, pre-booking a table a day before is often necessary, especially at lunchtime on weekends and holidays.
It s the same as in my country
Find a professional when looking to rent or buy a house. The bureaucracy and requirements could leave you seriously out of pocket if you don t get it right. The Spanish have a saying in English they often like to repeat in the presence of foreigners, and that is ‘Spain is different, and they’re not wrong. It’s all very well criticising the Spanish for not doing things like they do in your own country, but they are not the ones in the wrong. It’s their country.
In conclusion, moving to Spain as an expat requires several important steps. Learning Spanish, preparing for bureaucracy, and understanding the local culture are essential for a successful transition.
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Passionate about music, food and the arts. After being completely immersed in the Spanish way of life for 25 years, I now share my knowhow and experience with you.
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