To go and live in another country always presents new challenges. You need to develop the ability to adapt to your new environment. Several things can be completely different for the better and for the worse.
You will first need to obtain a residence permit in order to live and work in Spain. You must get a residence card for all the members of your household unless they are under 18 years of age. There are plenty of jobs available for foreigners but, most of the jobs in the 'costas' are just seasonal. Most of the time Spanish institutions and companies will recognize degrees obtained abroad but primarily in Europe.
In relation to the costs to live in Spain, more often than not they will be cheaper to other places in Europe. However, it varies from one place to the other. Madrid and Barcelona for example, can be quite expensive if you decide to live in the centre. The banking scenery in Spain has been a good deal relative to European standards.
You will have to pay income taxes if you have a business or live more than 183 days a year in Spain. Sometimes paying the permits and necessary taxes might turn out to be an advantage as some deductions may apply. No matter what, do not regret spending money on life and property insurance; it is ever more essential when away from home.
In case of a problem do not forget that your embassies and consulates in Spain are here to take care of you and can provide you with valuable advice. If you have a legal problem or question you can always contact a lawyer; due to the great number of tourists that come to Spain every year, plenty of qualified lawyers can attend to you in English.
The healthcare system in Spain is not the best, but it is available for free if you pay social security. The downside is the long waiting lists to see specialists and to have operations that are not an emergency.
The schooling system is Spain has many opportunities for foreigners as there are many very well known international schools in Spain for your children to study in Spanish and English. To put your child in a public school is also a possible option.
There are driving regulations that might be different than in your country even if you are from the EU so keep an eye on them. To buy several things (i.e. cars or property) you will need to provide appropriate documentation. But do not worry, you will be able to do your shopping eventually.
There are many different ways to travel to Spain, and you can find interesting deals. If you want to take your pet with you, you will need to bring your pet passport or international vaccination health certificate and you have to travel no more than 15 days after it has been issued.
In the hard moments of your settling in Spain, remember of the reasons you chose to come to Spain. Learn to sit back and relax, you might as well get acquainted with the Spanish way of life as soon as possible.
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