Moving to Spain
Sunnier climes and an established Ex-Pat community gives Spain much appeal to Brit, looking to escape the grey treadmill of life in the UK.
Moving to live in Spain might be a bigger change and even more of a challenge than most of us might expect. You could end up facing a lot of official paperwork, and not being able to speak Spanish can make your planned new life even more difficult.
Start by getting advice from The British Embassy in Spain at: Torre Espacio, Paseo de la Castellana, 259D, 28046 Madrid. Telephone: (+34) 917 146 400 Web: http://ukinspain.fco.gov.uk/en/
Wherever in the Spain you plan to move to, you’ll need to chose a removal firm with the expertise to ensure your move goes smoothly. Contact some firms to request some free quotes. This is something any reputable and professional firm will do. You will then be visited by one of the firm’s moving consultants, who will make an assessment of your needs.
Once you’ve agreed a quote, a moving date will be set. All you need do then is relax and let the experts handle the packing of your possessions, and either put them into storage until you are ready or transport them to your new Spanish home, where they will get it all unpacked for you.
After you’ve arrived and got your new home ready, you’ll then need to think about settling in to your chosen country. Contact the British Consulate in Madrid provides you with somewhere to go for advice should you experience any problems. They can also advise you about British clubs and associations which may be in your area. Contact the British Consulate at Paseo de Recoletos, 7/9
28004 Madrid Tel.: 91 524 97 00 E-mail: madridconsulate @ ukinspain.com The Consulate offers advice and help in case you experience any problems. Spain is also famous for having an extensive British ex-pat community.
• learning to speak and write Spanish will help you to adapt to your new surroundings and integrate with your neighbours, buy things in shops, order meals in restaurants and enjoy Spanish culture.
• Get to know with all local transport services – you may not be far from bus, train or tram links. You are allowed to drive in Spain with a UK driving licence, but you might need to exchange it for an EEA national licence if you decide to attain full status as a resident. You will also need to check your vehicle insurance is up to date, and that your car is fit for use and complies with Spanish traffic regulations.
• Always make sure your passport is up to date and don’t forget to fill in the next-of-kin section on the back page. When it needs to be rened, you will need to apply to the British Consulate for a new one.
Overall, make the most of your new life, enjoy yourself, but don’t lose touch with your family and friends back in the UK.