11 Essential Tips For Removals To Spain

We could sugar coat it, but the simple truth is moving overseas does come with extra worries, paperwork and challenges. That certainly doesn’t mean it can’t still be a positive and yes, enjoyable experience. With the right removals team and company behind you, this can still be a wonderful start to your new life in Spain.

To help get you started, here’s a quick guide covering the most frequently asked questions;

How much does it cost to move to Spain?

It really does all depend on the size of your move; distance, size of property, volume of items, time of year, type of services required (storage, packing, etc). These will all affect the cost of your removal.

Will I need a specialist international removals company?

Yes. Your removals company must have an ECMT International Removals Permit (European Conference of Ministers of Transport). An experienced removals company will know how to navigate the customs regulations. They’ll also have a network of contacts and agents in the various ports and cities.

It’s worth getting more than one quote for your removal, you’re about to pack all your worldly goods into a van and let a stranger drive off with them, cheaper is definitely not better. Find a company you trust, that is the right fit for you and that makes you feel comfortable about their service.

Read more here; How to choose a removals company…

What paperwork will I need for my Spanish removal?

You must have a visa and work permit to move to Spain. If you have agreed a new job, your employer should have applied for your visa once you signed your contract (check with your employer). You will still have to apply for a visa which can be done via the Spanish embassy.

You’ll also need to obtain a ‘foreigner’s identity number’ (N.I.E.), this can be done in Spain, which is slower, so enquire at the embassy when applying for your visa.

Finally, you must have a valid passport.

Other documents that you should keep handy in case they’re needed and to help speed things up are;

• 2 passport-sized photos
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate
• Medical documentation (including dental and immunizations)
• University degree(s) and qualification(s)
• Police background check

What documents will I need?

As well as personal documentation, you’ll also need a full inventory of items you’re moving, this will need to be completed in Spanish. You might also be asked to produce your work permit and visa alongside the inventory. There is no tax import for most goods, however you may be liable to pay tax on single items valued above €3,000.

There are restrictions on items such as firearms and even plants. These items require further documentation which you should ask your removals coordinator about prior to your removal.

You’ll also need to register – El Padrón

El Padrón is the Spanish population register, once registered you’ll have many of the same rights as a Spanish citizen including healthcare. Without registering you will only receive healthcare if you have health insurance. To register you’ll need;

• Photo ID (passport, etc)
• Proof of public or private healthcare
• Proof of sufficient funds to live (such as bank statements and/or contract of employment)

What documents are required for pets?

If you are taking a pet with you when moving to Spain, you will need to show proof of;

• A microchip (fitted at least 21 days prior to your move)
• Rabies vaccination
• General certificate of health

At present, as long as all the above are produced, there is no quarantine period.

Do I need to register to pay taxes?

Yep, no matter where you’re moving to, there will always be a taxman. In accordance with Spanish law, you’re required to pay Spanish taxes the moment you start working. Before leaving the UK you should check with your tax office to see if you’re required to fill out a P85 form which is a declaration that you’re leaving the UK and paying taxes in your new country of residence. If you still have UK savings or interests, you should also complete an R105 which should be passed on to any banks or institutions that are holding your funds.

You can find further information at the .Gov website.

Do we need health insurance?

Spain does have a state founded health system, similar to the UK, however some documents require further health insurance. Having your own health insurance can also help avoid waiting times for procedures, although it’s worth noting Spanish hospital waiting lists are a fraction of those in the UK.  You must be registered on El Padrón.

Do I need to register my car?

In accordance with the DGT (Direccion General de Trafico), cars from non-EU countries need to be registered in order to drive on Spanish roads, this should be done before you travel; “The registration of a vehicle is a prerequisite for you to be able to circulate with it on public roads. You must register and affix the license plates before you can circulate with any motor vehicle.” Full details are available on the DGT website.

Can I use my UK driving license?

If you have a full, valid UK driving license, you can drive in Spain for up to 6 months, after which you will need to pass a Spanish driving test. The Spanish and UK governments are currently in talks to allow UK and Spanish passports to be fully recognised in either country (check the .Gov website for the latest updates).

Our Top Tip – Prepare a Travel Box

Have a secure case, bag or box where you can keep everything you’ll need for your overseas move such as;

• Documents (visas, health certificate, proof of earnings/employment, etc)
• Paperwork (removals inventory, in Spanish, removals contract, etc)
• Passports
• Printed copy of contact numbers (removals office, driver, family members, etc)
• Phone charger
• Water
• Sun cream, hats
• Medication

The box/bag should be kept handy at all times and secure and out of sight if you do leave it in your vehicle.

If you have any further questions we’ll be happy to help. You can contact our friendly team with any questions regarding Spanish removal tips and advice, from paperwork and packing to import restrictions and best road food (our teams have learnt a LOT about great Spanish food!).

Or if you’re getting ready to move and want a free no-hassle quote (we don’t believe in hard-sell), then drop us an email and we’ll arrange a time to come to you, or we can arrange a video call and give you an estimate online.