Table of Contents
The Exploration Trip
Are you tired of the same old routine and itching for an adventure?
Are you dreaming of soaking up the sun on a sandy beach with a glass of sangria in hand?
Well, look no further than a move from Canada to Spain!
But hold on, before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, why not make the journey itself an adventure?
Take an exploration trip and discover all the hidden gems along the way! From quaint towns to stunning landscapes, you never know what you might stumble upon.
So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey from the Great White North to the Land of the Siesta!
- Learn the Language: While it’s not essential to speak Spanish fluently before moving to Spain, it’s helpful to have some basic knowledge of the language. Try to learn a few key phrases before your trip and practice speaking with locals while you’re there.
- Research the Different Regions: Spain is a diverse country with many different regions, each with its own culture and customs. Research the different regions to get a sense of where you might like to live.
- Visit Different Cities: Spain has many beautiful cities to explore, each with its own unique charm. Consider visiting Andalusia, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, or Valencia to get a taste of different regions.
- Experience the Local Cuisine: Spanish food is famous for its flavor and variety. Be sure to try some local specialties while you’re there, such as paella, tortilla española, and churros con chocolate.
- Explore the Local Culture: Spain is a country with a rich history and culture, and there are many museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore. Be sure to visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and the Alhambra in Granada.
- Meet People: One of the best ways to get to know a new country is to meet the locals. Strike up conversations with people you meet in cafes, restaurants, and bars, and join local clubs or organizations to meet people with similar interests.
- Plan Your Finances: Before moving to Spain, it’s important to have a solid understanding of your finances. Research the cost of living in different regions and make a budget for your move. You may also want to consider opening a bank account in Spain.
- Be Open-Minded: Moving to a new country can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to experience new things and broaden your horizons. Be open-minded and willing to adapt to a new culture and way of life.
- Find a Place to Stay: While you’re exploring Spain, be sure to check out different neighborhoods and consider staying in an Airbnb or other short-term rental to get a sense of what it’s like to live in different areas – neighbourhoods, cities, towns.
- Take Your Time: Moving to a new country is a big decision, so don’t rush into anything. Take your time exploring Spain, meeting people, and experiencing the culture before making any big decisions about your move.
- BONUS TIP: If you are a native English speaker, volunteer! This is one of the best ways to learn first hand – from a Spaniard – about specific regions in Spain. Learn more about it here. These are the companies that we personally volunteer at.
Why Work With Relocation Specialists
If you’re considering moving to Spain, it’s a good idea to get in touch with relocation professionals. These experts can help you navigate the complexities of moving to a new country and ensure that your move goes as smoothly as possible. Here are a few tips for finding and working with relocation professionals:
- Do Your Research: There are many relocation professionals out there, so it’s important to do your research and find one that’s right for you. Look for a company with experience in relocating individuals and families to Spain, and read reviews from previous clients.
- Consider Your Budget: Relocation services can be expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget before hiring a professional. Look for a company that offers transparent pricing and can provide you with a detailed estimate of the costs involved.
- Communicate Your Needs: When you’re working with a relocation professional, it’s important to communicate your needs and expectations. Be clear about your budget, your timeline, and any special requirements you may have.
- Ask for Recommendations: If you know anyone who has moved to Spain before, ask them for recommendations for relocation professionals. They may be able to point you in the direction of a company that they had a positive experience with.
- Take Advantage of Their Expertise: Relocation professionals have experience navigating the complexities of moving to a new country, so don’t be afraid to ask for their advice and expertise. They can provide you with valuable information about the local culture, the housing market, and the process of obtaining visas and work permits.
- Stay Involved in the Process: While it’s important to rely on the expertise of your relocation professional, it’s also important to stay involved in the process. Make sure you understand what’s happening at each stage of the process and ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.
- Keep in Touch: Once you’ve moved to Spain, stay in touch with your relocation professional. They can be a valuable resource if you need help with anything in your new country, and they may be able to provide you with tips and advice for settling in.
Visas and Permits
Before you start packing your bags, you need to ensure that you have the necessary paperwork in order. Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter Spain for up to 90 days, but if you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa or residency permit.
If you plan on working in Spain, you will need a work permit. If you’re a student, you’ll need to apply for a student visa. It’s essential to research the visa requirements well in advance of your move, so you have enough time to gather all the necessary documents and submit your application.
Digital Nomad Visa
Watch the short video below and listen to the experts from My Lawyer in Spain explain the ins and outs of the Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa.
Housing
When it comes to finding a place to live in Spain, you have several options. Renting an apartment is the most common choice, and it’s a good idea to start looking for a place to live before you arrive. Many websites list available properties for rent in Spain, and you can also use a real estate agent to help you find a place to live.
If you plan on buying property in Spain, you’ll need to hire a real estate agent, a lawyer, and a notary. Keep in mind that the process of buying property in Spain can be complicated and time-consuming, so it’s important to do your research and work with professionals who can guide you through the process.
If you are thinking of Alicante province, contact Gabriela at Magenta Living. She provides the most amazing service and really listens to your needs.
Globexs for anywhere in Spain (Alicante, Asturias, Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, and Valencia) and abroad (Bordeaux, Brussels, Ghent, Lisbon, and Paris).
If you are thinking of buying property in Valencia, make sure to contact the team at YES Valencia. They are extremely helpful and knowledgeable.
Healthcare
Spain has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost healthcare to residents. If you’re a Canadian citizen, you’re entitled to use the public healthcare system in Spain, but you’ll need to register with the social security office and get a social security number.
It’s also a good idea to purchase private health insurance, as this will give you access to additional services and specialists. Make sure to research different health insurance options before you move to Spain.
NOTE: Stay tuned for new articles about this including free downloads.
Packing List
When it comes to packing for your move from Canada to Spain, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure you pack everything you need, but you don’t want to overpack and end up with too much stuff. Here’s a list of items you may want to bring with you:
What to Bring:
Passport and Important Documents: You’ll need to have your passport with you when you enter Spain, and it’s a good idea to bring any other important documents you may need, such as your birth certificate, marriage certificate, or driver’s license.
Clothes for Different Seasons: Spain has a Mediterranean climate, so you can expect hot summers and mild winters. Bring clothing appropriate for both seasons, such as lightweight clothing, swimwear, and sandals for summer, and warmer clothing, such as a jacket or sweater, for winter.
Comfortable Shoes for Walking: Spain is a great country for walking, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes that you can wear for long periods of time.
Toiletries: Bring your favorite toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste, as well as any other personal hygiene products you may need.
Medications: If you take prescription medications, make sure to bring enough to last you for a few months, and be sure to check with your doctor to see if you need any additional prescriptions for your time in Spain.
Electronic Devices and Chargers: Bring your phone, laptop, and any other electronic devices you need, along with their chargers – but remember that Spain uses 220v
Adapters for Electronic Devices: Spain uses a different electrical outlet than Canada, so make sure to bring an adapter so you can plug in your devices.
Books, Games, or Other Entertainment Items: Bring a few items to keep you entertained during your downtime, such as books, board games, or DVDs.
Small Items that Remind You of Home: Bringing a few small items that remind you of home, such as photos or a favorite mug, can help ease homesickness.
What NOT to Bring:
Heavy Winter Clothing: While it can get chilly in Spain during the winter months, it’s usually not cold enough to warrant heavy winter clothing. Save space in your luggage by leaving your bulky winter coats and boots behind.
Furniture: Unless you’re planning on staying in Spain long-term or buying property there, it’s not worth bringing furniture. Shipping or storing furniture can be expensive, so it’s best to leave it behind.
Large Appliances: Along the same lines as furniture, it’s not worth it to bring large appliances like refrigerators or stoves. These items are often built into the structure of a home, and bringing them from Canada to Spain would be impractical and expensive.
Non-Essential Items that Take Up Space: When you’re packing for a move, it’s easy to get carried away and bring things that you don’t really need. Be mindful of what you’re packing, and only bring the essentials. This will save you space in your luggage and make your move to Spain less stressful.
Storage Units and Considerations for Short-Term or Undetermined Time
If you’re planning to move to Spain for a short period of time or are uncertain of your return date, you may be wondering what to do with your belongings in your home country. One option is to store your items in a storage unit. However, before renting a storage unit, there are a few things to consider.
Short-Term Storage
If you’re only planning to move to Spain for a short period of time, it may make sense to keep your belongings in a storage unit. This will give you the option to return to your home country and retrieve your items if needed. When considering short-term storage, keep in mind the following:
Duration of stay: If you’re only planning to stay in Spain for a few months, it may not be worth renting a storage unit. Consider asking a friend or family member to store your items for you instead.
Cost: Storage units can be expensive, especially if you’re only planning to use them for a short period of time. Be sure to factor in the cost of renting the unit and any associated fees before making a decision.
Accessibility: If you’re planning to retrieve your items from the storage unit, make sure it’s easily accessible to you.
Undetermined Time Storage
If you’re uncertain of your return date or planning to move to Spain for an undetermined amount of time, it may be more cost-effective to sell or donate your items and let go of the storage unit. When considering undetermined time storage, keep in mind the following:
Value of items: If the value of the items in storage exceeds the cost of renting the storage unit, it may make sense to keep the unit. However, if the cost of renting the unit exceeds the value of the items, it may be more cost-effective to let go of the unit and sell or donate your items.
Long-term storage
If you’re planning to store your items for the long-term, be sure to choose a storage unit that is secure and climate-controlled to protect your items from damage.
Cost: As with short-term storage, be sure to factor in the cost of renting the storage unit and any associated fees when considering undetermined time storage.
The decision of whether to rent a storage unit or let go of your items will depend on your individual circumstances. Consider the length of your stay in Spain, the value of your items, and the cost of renting a storage unit before making a decision. If you’re unsure of what to do, consult with a professional storage unit company for advice.
