Why People Become Expats in Spain—and What Life Is Like Once They Do

Spain has long been one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for expatriates. Whether it’s the sun-soaked coastlines, relaxed lifestyle, or vibrant culture, people from across the globe are drawn to this Mediterranean nation in search of a better quality of life. But what makes Spain so compelling for expats—and what’s it really like to live there long term?

Why Do People Move to Spain?

1. Climate and Natural Beauty

Spain boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year in many areas, including Andalusia, the Costa Blanca, and the Canary Islands. This warm, mild climate is a magnet for those escaping colder, greyer regions. Beyond the weather, Spain’s natural diversity—from mountains and forests to beaches and vineyards—adds to its allure.

2. Lower Cost of Living

Compared to much of Northern and Western Europe, as well as cities in the U.S., Spain offers a relatively affordable lifestyle. Daily expenses like rent, dining out, healthcare, and transportation are notably cheaper in many regions, especially outside major urban centers like Madrid and Barcelona.

3. Work-Life Balance and Lifestyle

Spain is well known for its laid-back lifestyle. The cultural emphasis on family, community, and enjoying life—often over constant work—resonates with expats looking to slow down and focus on personal well-being. Leisurely meals, festivals, late-night walks, and long holidays are all part of everyday life.

4. Healthcare and Infrastructure

Spain’s healthcare system ranks among the best globally. EU citizens often have access to public healthcare, while non-EU expats can purchase private insurance at relatively affordable rates. Transport infrastructure is also efficient and reliable, with high-speed trains and extensive bus networks connecting even smaller towns.

5. Cultural Richness and Travel Opportunities

Spain is steeped in history, art, and tradition—from Roman ruins and Gothic cathedrals to flamenco dancing and Picasso’s legacy. Each region offers a distinct identity, language, and cuisine, making travel within the country a culturally rich experience. Additionally, Spain’s location provides easy access to the rest of Europe and North Africa.

What It's Like to Be an Expat in Spain

1. Integrating into Spanish Life

Integration can vary widely depending on the individual, location, and effort made to learn the language. Speaking Spanish—or the regional language like Catalan or Galician—opens up access to deeper social and professional connections. While many locals are friendly and open, building lasting relationships often takes time and commitment.

2. Challenges of Managing Personal Finances and Insurance

Relocating to Spain can present unexpected hurdles when it comes to handling money and insurance. The banking system can be bureaucratic and often requires in-person appointments for tasks that might be done online elsewhere. Spanish banks frequently charge maintenance fees, and navigating their online platforms may be difficult without fluent Spanish. Tax residency can also complicate financial life. Once you become a tax resident—generally after 183 days in the country—you must declare global income, which can lead to double taxation if not carefully managed. Similarly, retirees may face difficulties in transferring pensions or understanding how Spain taxes retirement income.

Healthcare access adds another layer of complexity: while Spain’s public system is excellent, it’s not available to all expats immediately. Private health insurance is a common alternative, but understanding policy terms in a foreign language can be daunting. Currency conversion fees and fluctuating exchange rates also affect expats who receive income or pensions from abroad. All of these factors make financial planning a critical and often complicated part of expat life in Spain.

3. Visa Complications for British Expats Post-Brexit

Since Brexit, British citizens no longer have automatic residency rights in Spain. This shift has introduced a major bureaucratic hurdle for many would-be expats. British nationals now need to apply for visas such as the non-lucrative visa, which requires proof of financial means and private health insurance; the digital nomad visa, for remote workers; or the golden visa, tied to significant property investment. The application process is often slow, paperwork-intensive, and complicated by the need for document translation and apostilles. Many applicants find the requirements unclear and the rules inconsistent between consulates. As a result, the dream of retiring or relocating to Spain has become significantly more difficult for UK citizens.

4. Community and Social Life

Expats in Spain generally find it easy to build a social life, especially in areas with established foreign communities. From British enclaves in the Costa del Sol to international hubs in Barcelona and Madrid, there are countless clubs, meetups, and events designed for newcomers. That said, truly integrating into Spanish society often means going beyond the expat bubble—learning the language, celebrating local traditions, and forging connections with locals.

5. Raising a Family

Spain is considered very family-friendly, with a culture that embraces children in everyday life. Public schooling is free and generally of good quality, while many urban areas offer international or bilingual schools. Safety, healthcare access, and a slower pace of life are major benefits for families considering a move.

Conclusion

Moving to Spain is about more than just sunshine and sangria—it’s a meaningful lifestyle choice rooted in quality of life, culture, and personal fulfilment. But it comes with its share of complexities: bureaucratic red tape, financial planning headaches, and integration challenges.

K2 are here to make your expat life easier. Contact us and our team of advisers will call you back to see how we can help.