Dreaming of Tapas at sunset? The rhythm of the flamenco bird? 

Immigrating to Spain is the dream of millions of youth. If you are one of those dreamers and you are determined to make your dream true, this might be helpful for you.

According to Statista, 1,258,894 people migrated to Spain in 2022. Check out the different migration flows below. 

[Source: Statista]

The entire immigration process might not be very easy, still, it’s not something you can’t do if you are on the right track. Life in Spain is lucrative enough to take those steps. 

[Source: Statista]

All you need to immigrate to Spain successfully is necessary support and a proper guideline. Today, we’ll talk about the whole process of immigrating to Spain. So, stay with us to learn all the basics to make your dream come true.

How to Immigrate to Spain? (In 7 Simple Steps)

Immigrating to a new country is not always so easy. And when your destination is the exceptionally beautiful country of Spain, you must go through some hassles for sure. But don’t worry, we know the process very well and we can help you organize your journey in a way that would be easier for you.

If you have some time to spare, learn things to know before moving to Spain in advance to get a proper idea of life in Spain.

However, here is the complete step-by-step way to immigrate to Spain. Make sure to prioritize each step equally so that the long journey won’t seem difficult for you.

Step 1: Get Your Residency Permit

Applying for your residency permit in Spain is the first, and maybe a bit tricky, step. You can have many different options to get your Spanish residency permit.

There are residency options temporary or permanent with many different types like student, entrepreneur, or highly qualified professional.

To get one, you should check the requirements for the type you want. If you meet the rules, that’s great! 

But remember, whatever type you pick, finishing this process is a must to live legally in Spain. Take it step by step, and soon you’ll be on your way to calling Spain your new home. 

Step 2: Fix Your Accommodation 

Now that you have your residency permit, it’s time to find a place to live in Spain. But be prepared, it’s not easy either!

To rent a place safely, you’ll need some important documents. Big cities like Madrid and Barcelona can be expensive. In these areas, the rent can start at about €800. 

However, if you’re looking for more affordable options, you should choose areas that are not overpopulated. In this case, places like Ourense have apartments starting at €300, and Castellón starts at €400. 

Make sure you have your residency permit and necessary documents ready when searching for a home. Also, while going on the deal, check the rental requirements to secure your new home in Spain.

Step 3: Complete Social Security Registration

To get almost any essential benefits in Spain, like health care and other services, you must register for Social Security. It’s mandatory! Well, here, you can have different ways to register based on your situation. 

Take a good look at your case before moving to Spain. Check all the ways to register for Social Security in Spain. Try to get introduced to the process. Once you’ve decided, gather the necessary documents for the registration. 

In this case, you might need: 

  • Application form (Modelo TA-1)
  • Proof of identity (Valid passport or national ID card)
  • Your residency permit
  • possibly a job contract, or proof of self-employment

Be sure to check the specific documents needed for your unique situation.

Step 4: Get Your Foreigner Identity Number

In Spain, the Foreign Identity Number is commonly known as the NIE Number. It’s another must-have for all foreign residents to get their NIE in Spain.

The NIE is like an ID for foreigners. You need it for important things like opening a bank account or getting medical insurance. 

However, when you have a residency permit, the government will help you get your NIE. Still, you should check the requirements and then apply for them in specific offices. It won’t take longer to get the NIE.

Step 5: Registered on the Electoral Roll

In Spain, being on the Electoral Roll is super important—it’s like saying, “Hey, I’m here!” So, it’s another requirement in the process of immigrating to Spain.

This register keeps track of everyone in the area and checks how long you’ve been living in Spain. If you forget to join this club, it’s like you’re invisible to the Council. 

So, you might think what will happen if you don’t be on this Electoral roll, right? Just for ignoring it, you might get a fine of up to €150! So, don’t forget to register. 

Step 6: Get Your Foreigner Identity Card

Like the NIE, Foreigner Identity Card, which means TIE is also mandatory in Spain. The TIE is a crucial document that usually proves your legal residence. 

This TIE Card will display your photo, personal details, and residency type. Remember, it’s not the same as the NIE. The TIE confirms you are a legal resident, while the NIE is just an administrative ID. 

To get your TIE in Spain, follow the steps below:

  • Ensure you have your residency permit.
  • Schedule an appointment at the local police station or immigration office. 
  • Bring required documents like a passport, residency permit, and a passport-sized photo. 
  • Pay the fee, and after processing, you’ll receive your TIE. 
  • Keep it safe, as it’s your key to a legal stay in Spain.

Step 7: Get Your Job

Even though getting a job in Spain is not completely related to immigrating to Spain, you can’t possibly shift there without a stable income source. When you have your residency permit, NIE, and all other social numbers and registrations, you might get the work permit as well.

If you shift there as a worker or an entrepreneur, you will have your work permit. As a student, you might have to apply for a work permit after you reach there.

However, if you dream of being your own boss in Spain, you need to be self-employed. In this case, if you are a digital nomad, things will be just perfect. Being a freelancer can help as well. In such scenarios, you don’t particularly need to look for jobs in the new country.

Wrapping Up

So, this is all about how to immigrate to Spain. As I said before, the entire process is not so easy, but possible and exceptionally can be easier if you manage to organize it step-by-step.

Well, if you are lucky and manage to immigrate to Spain, make sure to research a specific fact that I didn’t mention earlier. Understanding the cost of living is very important to make ends meet. Generally, a person’s monthly expenses in Spain could be from €820 to €1,100. So, manage your money accordingly.

Hopefully, this content comes as a helping hand on your way to immigrating to Spain.