Living and working in Spain

Do you dream of living under the Spanish sun? Living and working in Spain is an attractive option for many people. Whether you are looking for a temporary adventure or considering a permanent move, Spain offers beautiful cities, a relaxed lifestyle and plenty of job opportunities. In this blog, read all about how to find accommodation and work in this sunny country.

Living and working in Spain: a dream that can come true

Where can you live in Spain?

Spain has many different regions, each with its own character. Want to live in a bustling city, a quiet village or on the coast? Here are a few popular options:

  • Barcelona: Perfect for those who love a cosmopolitan atmosphere, beach and culture.
  • Madrid: The capital offers many employment opportunities and a vibrant urban culture.
  • Valencia: A more affordable alternative with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Seville: Ideal if you love traditional Spain with tapas, flamenco and sunny days.
  • Málaga: Popular among expats because of its warm climate and lower cost of living.

What do you need to work in Spain?

If you want to work in Spain, there are a number of administrative matters you need to take care of:

  • NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero): This is a tax identification number you need to work legally and open a bank account. How to apply for this can be found in this blog
  • Social Security (Seguridad Social): Registration with Spanish Social Security is required to access health care and other workers’ rights.
  • Bank account: Many employers require a Spanish bank account for salary payments.
  • Residence permit: As an EU citizen, you can work freely in Spain, but if you are from outside the EU, you need a work permit.

Spanish culture: a mix of tradition and modernity

Spain has a rich and diverse culture that varies by region. Here are some characteristics of the Spanish lifestyle:

  • Siesta and working hours: Many parts of Spain have a siesta at noon, especially in smaller towns and villages. Working hours may differ from what you are used to because of this.
  • Food and drink: Spaniards eat late; lunch around 2:00-15:00 pm and dinner often not until after 9:00 pm. Tapas, paella and jamón ibérico are popular dishes.
  • Fiestas and festivals: Spain is known for its lively festivals such as La Tomatina, Feria de Abril and Las Fallas.
  • Family and social contacts: Family plays a central role in Spanish society, and social contacts are very important.

How do you find accommodation?

Finding accommodation in Spain can be a challenge, especially in popular cities. Here are some useful platforms where you can search for accommodation:

  • Idealista(www.idealista.com): One of the largest housing websites in Spain.
  • Fotocasa(www.fotocasa.es): Similar to Idealista, offering a wide range of rental and for-sale properties.
  • Spotahome(www.spotahome.com): Suitable for those who want to pre-book a property without physically viewing.
  • Facebook groups: Look for expat groups in the city you want to live in; often rooms and apartments are offered here.
  • Airbnb: For a temporary solution while looking for a permanent home.

Where can you find work in Spain?

Depending on your skills and interests, there are several ways to find work in Spain. You can of course take a look at our current vacancies via this link

Important tips for living and working in Spain

  • Learn the language: Although English is spoken in many places, a basic knowledge of Spanish helps tremendously.
  • Get the right documents: Consider an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) number, needed for work and banking.
  • Explore different regions: Each Spanish region has its own culture and lifestyle, so visit several places before choosing.
  • Tap into local networks: Join expat groups and local meetings to get your bearings faster.

Conclusion

Living and working in Spain offers a fantastic quality of life with sunshine, good food and a relaxed lifestyle. With the right preparation and a little patience, you can make your Spanish adventure a success. Use the mentioned platforms to find a home and a job, and enjoy all that Spain has to offer!