Moving to Spain checklist

What is on this checklist

The paperwork, in the order most people do it.

Before you go

• Choose your route: EU free movement, digital nomad visa, non-lucrative visa, job, study or family
• Criminal record certificates: apostilled and sworn-translated
• Private health insurance with no co-payments (if your visa needs it)
• Proof of income or savings for your visa
• Tax advice: when you become resident and what changes

First month in Spain

• Temporary rental while you learn the area
• Register on the padrón at the town hall
• Non-EU: TIE card appointment within one month
• EU: registration certificate if staying over 3 months
• Spanish bank account and Bizum
• Register at your health centre

First six months

• Digital certificate or Cl@ve for online paperwork
• Exchange or replace your driving licence if required
• School places (state schools by address)
• Autónomo registration if self-employed
• Beckham Law: Modelo 149 within six months, if eligible

First year

• Spanish tax return in spring if you were resident
• Modelo 720 if you hold over €50,000 abroad (unless on Beckham)
• Renew temporary residence on time
• After a year on the padrón: consider the convenio especial