Question 1

What is the NIE and do I need one to buy property in Spain?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your unique foreigner identification number in Spain, required for all official transactions including property purchase, bank account opening, tax payments, and signing contracts. You can apply at the Policía Nacional in Dénia or Alicante, or at a Spanish consulate in your home country. Processing takes 1–3 weeks in Spain or 3–8 weeks at a consulate. Try Before Moving guides participants through the entire NIE application process.

Question 2

How long can I stay in Spain without registering as a resident?

Accepted Answer

EU citizens (including Hungarian, Dutch, German, etc.) can stay in Spain up to 90 days without registration. After 90 days, you must register at the Extranjería office and obtain a green card (Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la UE). Non-EU citizens need a visa (D-type) from a Spanish consulate before arriving. Try Before Moving helps you understand which visa or permit applies to your situation.

Question 3

What are the costs of buying property in Spain beyond the purchase price?

Accepted Answer

When buying property in Spain, expect approximately 12–14% in additional costs on top of the purchase price. This includes: Transfer Tax (ITP) of 10% for resale properties or VAT (IVA) of 10% for new builds, Stamp Duty (AJD) of 1.5% for new builds, notary fees of €600–1,200, land registry fees of €400–700, and legal fees of 1–1.5% of the purchase price. Try Before Moving and our real estate partner Molino Villas guide you through every step of the purchase process.

Question 4

Which international schools are on the Costa Blanca?

Accepted Answer

The Costa Blanca has several British-curriculum international schools: Xabia International College (XIC) in Jávea (€5,000–8,000/year), Laude Lady Elizabeth in Benitachell (€7,000–12,000/year), El Limonar International School in Villarreal (€5,000–8,000/year), and Lope de Vega International School in Benidorm (€4,000–7,000/year). Spanish public schools are free — enrollment is in March/April and children typically learn Spanish within 3–6 months. The Family Discovery Week by Try Before Moving includes visits to schools that match your family's needs.

Question 5

How does healthcare work for expats in Spain?

Accepted Answer

EU citizens can access Spain's public health system (Sistema Nacional de Salud) using their EHIC card plus local registration (empadronamiento) to obtain a SIP health card. Private health insurance is widely available from Sanitas (€50–120/month), Adeslas (€40–100/month), Asisa (€35–90/month), and DKV (€45–110/month) — all with English-speaking service. Private insurance is mandatory for non-EU visa applicants. The Costa Blanca has excellent medical facilities including Hospital Dénia (with an international department) and IMED Levante in Benidorm. Try Before Moving includes healthcare facility visits during the experience week.

Question 6

Do I need a Spanish bank account to live in Spain?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a Spanish bank account is essential for property purchases, mortgages, utility contracts, and daily life. You need a NIE number to open one. Recommended banks in the Jávea/Costa Blanca area include Sabadell (expat-friendly with English-speaking service), CaixaBank (largest branch network), and BBVA (good online platform). While Wise/Revolut are useful as secondary accounts, they cannot replace a Spanish bank account for mortgages and utility contracts. Try Before Moving connects participants with English-speaking bank contacts.

Question 7

What is the Beckham Law in Spain?

Accepted Answer

The Beckham Law (Régimen Fiscal Especial) allows relocated employees to pay a flat 24% income tax rate for their first 6 years in Spain, instead of the standard progressive rates of 19–47%. This can be a significant tax benefit for higher earners moving to Spain for work. Try Before Moving can connect you with tax advisors who specialize in international tax planning for new residents.

Question 8

What visa options are available for non-EU citizens moving to Spain?

Accepted Answer

Non-EU citizens have several visa options: Non-lucrative visa (live in Spain without working), Digital Nomad visa (for remote workers employed outside Spain), Golden Visa (requires €500,000+ property investment), or Entrepreneur visa (for starting a business). Each has different requirements for proof of income, insurance, and documentation. Try Before Moving recommends individual consultation with an immigration lawyer and can connect you with trusted legal professionals during the experience week.

Question 9

What is empadronamiento and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Empadronamiento is the mandatory local registration at the town hall (Ayuntamiento) in Spain. It is free and usually processed on the same day. You need your passport and a rental contract or property deed. Empadronamiento is essential because it is required for: obtaining a public health card (SIP card), enrolling children in school, accessing local benefits and discounts, and voting rights in local elections for EU citizens.

Question 10

Can I bring my pets when moving to Spain?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pets moving from EU countries need: an EU Pet Passport, a microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel), and a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Once in Spain, register with a local veterinarian and the regional animal registry (RIAC). Non-EU countries may have additional requirements. Try Before Moving provides guidance on the pet relocation process.

Question 11

What does Try Before Moving include beyond property tours?

Accepted Answer

Try Before Moving is a comprehensive relocation experience, not just a property tour. Participants receive: luxury villa accommodation, guided property viewings across 4 coastal towns with our real estate partner Molino Villas, a detailed relocation guide covering all administrative steps (NIE, residency, banking, healthcare, taxes, utilities), personal introductions to trusted local professionals (lawyers, tax advisors, bankers, insurance brokers), healthcare facility visits, school tours for families, sport and cultural experiences (padel, tennis, hiking, sailing), and ongoing support after the program.

Programs

Active Lifestyle Week

Investor Focus Tour

Family Discovery Week

Premium VIP Private Tour

Property Tour with Extra

Golden Years Discovery Week (70+)