claxnes
American expat in Spain
Forum posts
182
Contacts
21
About me
American
Speaks Spanish and Englsh fluently. Less fluent in Valencian and Norwegian (Bokmål).
Registration: 22 May 2016
Moving to Spain in 2 months by Beatraveling
New to this group. I’m married to a Spaniard for 22 years and we decided to semi-retire and move to Spain in April (2 months from now). I wrote to the consulate in miami (where I live) and they told me that I was better off waiting until we ...
We have a US Skype Number. Our plan costs $30/year for the phone number and $3/month for our plan. From my mobile or PC I can call any US number as a local call. I receive texts free, voice mail, and can make international calls a very good rates. Read More
What do you hate about living in Spain? by Bazseville
Good Morning to all you expats out in Spain. Don't get me wrong, I love living in Spain, but some things get on my goat. Despite being in Seville for 7 years I still get treated like a guiri most places I go, the litter and dog poo drives me mad, ...
Jeez. Most of these problems have easy solutions and they have nothing to do with Spain as a country! I am a US expat who retired here about 9 years ago, but have lived here off and on since 1995. My favorite complaint about Spain over the years ... Read More
Vaccines required in Spain by Diksha
Hello everybody, When living or moving abroad, and in particular in Spain, vaccination against certain diseases is often required to enter the country or to avoid risks. We would like to ask you a few questions to help future expats ...
Gattus. I have friends from the US that are permanent residents. The vaccine is distributed by the national health service. You need to register and get a temporary SIP card. They then call you. That's what my friends did. Read More
Taxes in retirement for Americans by Erichsisol
hi there, I'm planing to retire in Spain (around Barcelona) but the main concern are taxes. I did online research but found incomplete or confusing information about taxation in retirement. Here is my info: I'm US and also Slovakia-EU ...
I have a private pension from a company in the US. Don't know the answer to the other questions, but I assume that interest and income are not taxable until retired from 401K and IRAs as per US law. Here is the Spanish BOE and explanation, but ... Read More
Taxes in retirement for Americans by Erichsisol
hi there, I'm planing to retire in Spain (around Barcelona) but the main concern are taxes. I did online research but found incomplete or confusing information about taxation in retirement. Here is my info: I'm US and also Slovakia-EU ...
Lots of questions. I recommend consulting with one of the online companies that do international taxes. From my own situation, I know the following: 1) Both Spain and the US tax all international earnings. Tax treaties are set up so that one is not ... Read More
Spanish toilets (may contain offensive observations) by Guest578976556
* If easily offended please do not read the following * This has been an issue for my 10 years in Spain. I must say to begin-with that I love Spain but there persist some inexplicable practices. I am a man of 90 kilograms. Since the start of my ...
The Spanish toilets were obviously designed by Socialists and Commies and fixtures in the US have the same problem. But there is hope! The DJ Trump toilet (The DT), DJT incandescent light bulb, and DJT high pressure shower (fire hose and pump not ... Read More
Expat interest in politics in Spain by Bhavna
Hello everyone, As an expat, your day-to-day life in Spain is impacted by decision-making at the political level in your host country as well as in your country of origin. We would like to know how involved you think expats should be in the ...
I am a US expst, fluent in Spanish and semi-fluent in Valencian. As a non-EU citizen I cannot vote in Spain, but I am known to the local EU/Podem community and I am usually invited to local events and mitins which I sometimes attend. I try to keep ... Read More
Payment methods in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once youre settled in Spain, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment methods ...
I am a retired American. I have an American Airlines Citi Platinum card that I use for most expenses. It transfers money from my US credit union at approximate interbank rates with no commision, and gives me frequent flyer miles, as well as other ... Read More
COST OF DYING IN SPAIN by Bob and Pat
We were stopped in Carrefour by 2 female sales people selling death plans. They said Spain is the most expensive place to die and we need a 20,000 euro plan each now ‘’today’’ to be able to stay in Spain. Is this true?.
Well, it is true that I have strayed a bit from the original question, but I believe that parts of my answer address questions that have arisen from the ensueing discussion. Not sure how to separate my answer and start a new thread. Perhaps, other ... Read More
Starting to investigate Alicante by petewales
Hello, I am starting to investigate Alicante, In the first instance I would like a holiday apartment, but gradually look to relocate totally to Spain over the next decade. I am visiting Alicante to investigate soon but would appreciate any ...
I live in the San Anton neighborhood in Alicante, which is close to the city center. Generally speaking, apartments inctease in price the closer they are to the city center or thr beach. As for "trendy" artsy areas, there is the Santa ... Read More
COST OF DYING IN SPAIN by Bob and Pat
We were stopped in Carrefour by 2 female sales people selling death plans. They said Spain is the most expensive place to die and we need a 20,000 euro plan each now ‘’today’’ to be able to stay in Spain. Is this true?.
I preface my message with my own experience upon my father's death in the USA. He left a will providing for my sister and I as well as his spouse but my sister and I received nothing, even though his estate was significant. There are various ... Read More
Euro / pound exchange rate by Johncar
I had occasion to check how the pound to euro rate has changed since 1st January 2002 when the euro currency, in our pocket, was introduced. On that day it was 1.60 euros to the pound, a few days later it was at its highest ever at 1.64. It ...
Well, Trump pressured and got the Fed in the US to lower the interest rate to drive up the EUR/ USD ratio, and yesterday it responded in the opposite, falling below the 1.11 mark, which was the lowest it has been for a year! Read More
Sense of humour in Spain by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Should we set out to explore Spanishs culture through its sense of humour? Indeed, if one is planning to settle in the country, it is best to understand the cultural codes governing humour in order to avoid any faux-pas. What ...
I disagree with a lot of Writerman's comments. In my opinion, every culture offers up, to the degree permitted by government or religious institutions, humor at various levels. I think this is a quality of being human. As for the comment that ... Read More
Sense of humour in Spain by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Should we set out to explore Spanishs culture through its sense of humour? Indeed, if one is planning to settle in the country, it is best to understand the cultural codes governing humour in order to avoid any faux-pas. What ...
Well, Generally speaking understanding jokes, often depending upon specific cultural references or double meanings attributed to a word is above the language comprehension level of most immigrants. Furthermore delivary of punch-lines is often at a ... Read More
we are newcomers...Hola, ola!
Welcome to Spain. I live in Alicante. Are you experienced English teachers with degrees? There are a lot of British English schools in the Alicante area, just google it. I do not know anything about any of them unfortunately. You can find ... Read More
Best cities for retirement in Spain by Bhavna
Hello everyone, An increasing amount of people want to spend their retirement abroad. Would you consider giving a few tips to those looking into Spain for their retirement? What are the most attractive cities for retirees in Spain? Why are ...
I am a US expat living in Alicante. If you are living in Spain more than 1/2 the star, it becomes you tax home. Both Spain and the US requiere that you declare worldwide earnings. In my case, taxation is determined by the US Spain tax treaty, and ... Read More
The must-try activities in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Moving to Spain is an exciting opportunity to discover a new culture and try things you might not even have heard of before. To make sure other expats and expats-to-be do not miss a thing, would you be able to answer the following ...
Well, for me, paragliding Teide volcano in Tenerife. Read More
Drivers license conversion by JoeRowland
Good day my name is Joe and I will be relocating to Barcelona from the US in June. I intend to stay a year perhaps longer. Can anyone explain the requirements to get my ya license converted? Will I have to retake tests written and practical? Would ...
Agree. i used the international license for many years as a tourist. Not sure if it is 6 months or a year, however, once you are a resident, the Spanish license is required. Perhaps Johncar can weigh in on exact laws. In any case, I recommend ... Read More
Drivers license conversion by JoeRowland
Good day my name is Joe and I will be relocating to Barcelona from the US in June. I intend to stay a year perhaps longer. Can anyone explain the requirements to get my ya license converted? Will I have to retake tests written and practical? Would ...
Read you are coming at the end of June. I recommend you get started on todotest.com now. Read More
Drivers license conversion by JoeRowland
Good day my name is Joe and I will be relocating to Barcelona from the US in June. I intend to stay a year perhaps longer. Can anyone explain the requirements to get my ya license converted? Will I have to retake tests written and practical? Would ...
I got my Spanish license about a year ago. It isn't easy to pass. A lot of people fail, especially the "practical" test. It isn't a "gift" like in the US. I dont remember the exact amounts of the fees, but count on ... Read More
Accommodation in Spain: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Spain just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
Although, they aren't legally scams, many or perhaps most, rentsl agents charge a fee of one months rent to find a tenant a flat, or at least they did in the 1990s when I first came to Spain. Now, if you take a long time in finding a place, ... Read More
Need help with basic banking by markpgh
I see there is much discussion on banking and sorry if this is a repeat topic. We are moving to Spain in early 2020 and I understand I need and NIE# to open a bank account but how do I transfer funds from my us account to a bank in Spain to be able ...
I use them, and they have a US address, so the wire from my credit union only costs $10, the domestic rate. I have a US colleague who claims he does better with a little known company, but says he has to call and "deal". I have also used ... Read More
Need help with basic banking by markpgh
I see there is much discussion on banking and sorry if this is a repeat topic. We are moving to Spain in early 2020 and I understand I need and NIE# to open a bank account but how do I transfer funds from my us account to a bank in Spain to be able ...
On money transfer, I suggest getting a credit card that doesn't charge currency exchange fees. I have a CITI platinum card, that charges no forex fees and also gives me miles on American airlines. There are other benefits as well. I believe my ... Read More
Novel Question on U. S. Pension and Social Security Taxes by JoseVill2
Hi everyone living in Spain from the U. S. (I envy you so)! My questions are directed to any expats who are former U. S. green card holders and who receive a U. S. pension and/or Social Security benefits: 1. Is your pension and/or social security ...
Yes, according to the 1990 BOE. I will try to confirm that no changes have occurred due to Trumptax. Read More
Novel Question on U. S. Pension and Social Security Taxes by JoseVill2
Hi everyone living in Spain from the U. S. (I envy you so)! My questions are directed to any expats who are former U. S. green card holders and who receive a U. S. pension and/or Social Security benefits: 1. Is your pension and/or social security ...
Not difficult. Download IRS forms on your computer. File as you would in the US. I file the 1040 long form. Print the forms out, sign, and return through Spanish mail. Overseas filers send to a special address. The IRS also gives overseas filers an ... Read More
Novel Question on U. S. Pension and Social Security Taxes by JoseVill2
Hi everyone living in Spain from the U. S. (I envy you so)! My questions are directed to any expats who are former U. S. green card holders and who receive a U. S. pension and/or Social Security benefits: 1. Is your pension and/or social security ...
Manual, Sent the Spanish BOE regarding the treaty on double taxation to your email. Hope that helps. Read More
Novel Question on U. S. Pension and Social Security Taxes by JoseVill2
Hi everyone living in Spain from the U. S. (I envy you so)! My questions are directed to any expats who are former U. S. green card holders and who receive a U. S. pension and/or Social Security benefits: 1. Is your pension and/or social security ...
Jose, Sorry, I didn't answer this post. I wasn't aware of it until I received the following post. I hope that you were able to find answers to your questions. As for Spanish taxes (hacienda) my wife and I have an accountant do our taxes. My ... Read More
Possible early government elections in spain by Johncar
The Spanish government have just been defeated on their budget plans. This probably means new elections in the near future A new government might change a lot of things for people living, or wanting to live, in Spain More unknowns to add to the ...
Dark clouds are a gathering .... Read More
Cost of living 2019 in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As we usually do each year, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
I don't know about Spain, but usually in the US the agency selling the car starts at a price that gives them their ideal profit. A customer can offer less and included in the deal is the value of the trade-in. When I bought my last car, I looked ... Read More
Sending and receiving packages in Spain by Priscilla
Hello, As an expat, there are inevitably certain items you might want or need from back home, and around the holiday period, many people like to send gift packages. How easy is it to send and receive packages in Spain? Is the public postal ...
Just a note. I also normally have good luck with correos. The one exception is on certified mail to the US. In this case, if time isn't an issue, it might be better to either mail by normal mail or to use a private carrier, which is very ... Read More
Fingerprint Appointment for NIE renewal by brabync
Hello, i have my fingerprint appointment tomorrow and my coordinator say i only need my passport and proof that my NIE renewal was approved. Online it says i need to bring everything i brought to the first appoint ment again plus pay the tasa ...
.... and usually there is a document that is lacking... Read More
Fingerprint Appointment for NIE renewal by brabync
Hello, i have my fingerprint appointment tomorrow and my coordinator say i only need my passport and proof that my NIE renewal was approved. Online it says i need to bring everything i brought to the first appoint ment again plus pay the tasa ...
I think he means a TIE, not a NIE. My advice take everything they ask for and anything they might ask for. Read More
Coming to visit Murcia by Elsies
Hi Guys We are planning to move to murcia and coming to look at different places to see where would feel like home, can anyone recommend an area to look at we don’t want to be by the sea, so about half hr from airport would be great. Elsie
Obviously, it depends on what your criteria are for where you want to live. Inland cities in that area that I like are Orihuela, Elche, and Alcoy, all within 30-45 min drive to an airport. Based on my visits, I would say Orihuela is a more ... Read More
Danger at work by kristinemholth
I work in a shop that requires my colleagues and I to use two different ladders many times per day. One is taller than the other, both are too shaky to be suitable for the how we use them in relation to how far up we must climb, the things we have ...
Where are you located? My wife is a funcionario in Alicante and could help locally. You may be located where. Local expat can help. Read More
Ship car from U.S. to Spain by rcb1392
Hello. We are planning to retire to Spain and were wondering if shipping a car is an option. Is there any website available that explains the rules? We can get quotes from many sources, but no information about what is legal for the vehicle ...
The message has been moderated, anyone interested in the original Spanish version send me a note and I will send it along. If someone has a driving need to know exactly what was said let me know and I will translate. .. Read More
Ship car from U.S. to Spain by rcb1392
Hello. We are planning to retire to Spain and were wondering if shipping a car is an option. Is there any website available that explains the rules? We can get quotes from many sources, but no information about what is legal for the vehicle ...
Had trouble posting so I posted the message above which is from the person that brought a car to Spain from the US, many years ago. He says the process is complicated and suggests using a car importation company with a contract where they get paid ... Read More
How have you managed mental health while living in Spain?
Well, when times get rough, I just remember the classic solution; --- I'd rather have a bottle in front of me, than a frontal lobatomy! ----- ;-) Read More
Ship car from U.S. to Spain by rcb1392
Hello. We are planning to retire to Spain and were wondering if shipping a car is an option. Is there any website available that explains the rules? We can get quotes from many sources, but no information about what is legal for the vehicle ...
Actually a family member of a Spanish friend who I haven't seen in a while. Also, on the verge of taking a trip, but if I remember when I get back, I will ask. I vaguely remember that the process was different for an older vehicle, so the person ... Read More
Ship car from U.S. to Spain by rcb1392
Hello. We are planning to retire to Spain and were wondering if shipping a car is an option. Is there any website available that explains the rules? We can get quotes from many sources, but no information about what is legal for the vehicle ...
Thanks, just wanted them to be aware of the differences in obtaining a driver's licence and the cost associated, as that might affect their decision as well. I do know someone who brought over a classic 1960's car. In that case, or in the ... Read More
Ship car from U.S. to Spain by rcb1392
Hello. We are planning to retire to Spain and were wondering if shipping a car is an option. Is there any website available that explains the rules? We can get quotes from many sources, but no information about what is legal for the vehicle ...
A note on the Spanish Driver's license. There is no agreement with the USA and a US license isnt valid for permenent residents, only for tourists with an international permit. The Spanish driving tests are not trivial as in most states in the ... Read More
New family in Callosa D'en Sarria by bny17
Hi! We moved over last year with our five year old daughter. She is desperately looking for playmates! :)
My wife's family is from Callosa, but we are in our 60s and most of her friends children are grown. Are your children pre-school? i would suggest joining the APA for the elementary school assuming Callosa has one, to meet school age parents. The ... Read More
Visa for Non EU Spouse by velja
Hello, I need a bit help on this topic and I cant seem to find any lawyer in Murcia area (any recommendations are more than welcome). I've came to Spain several months ago, so in the meantime my Schengen Visa has expired. I got married here (my ...
Also, agree with Pazcat. My last TIE renewal imigration had me jumping through a lot of hoops. For example, they wouldn't accept the libro de familia, wanted copies of the original marriage certificate, that had previously been presented for my ... Read More
Visa for Non EU Spouse by velja
Hello, I need a bit help on this topic and I cant seem to find any lawyer in Murcia area (any recommendations are more than welcome). I've came to Spain several months ago, so in the meantime my Schengen Visa has expired. I got married here (my ...
As per Johncar's comment, I stand (actually I am sitting down) corrected. I believe that I obtained my NIE, when I first came to Spain, cerca 1995, as a graduate student. At that time, I had a laminated paper id. Later on, I worked for the ... Read More
Visa for Non EU Spouse by velja
Hello, I need a bit help on this topic and I cant seem to find any lawyer in Murcia area (any recommendations are more than welcome). I've came to Spain several months ago, so in the meantime my Schengen Visa has expired. I got married here (my ...
I agree with pazcat. I am non-EU (US) married to a Spanish national. My wife obtained my visa and NIE through reagrupacion familiar. Read the ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
As pointed out by Julien, this is a present yourself thread, but if you pose this as a separate question, such as what are the differences between European, UK, and US voting systems, as an American living in Spain off and on over 22 years, I would ... Read More
Health care in spain will be free by Johncar
It appears there will be free health care in Spain [url]https://www.thinkspain.com/news-articles#p:/news-spain/30639/government-to-make-healthcare-free-and-universal-again-within-six-weeks[/url]
Agree. Unfortunately, this is true everywhere. But it is interesting to know the changes imposed by the 155. I was unaware of this one. In any case, if healthcare coverage is extended to all in some regions, residents can use it for the time that it ... Read More
Living in Alicante City by keithywebb
Hi all, first time on here. We are looking at buying a place in the city of Alicante as our escape place,and are popping over to look around end of September 2018, looking for advice about Estate Agent, VR CASAS, they seem to concentrate on the ...
Hello. I live in Alicante with my family and wife, who is Spanish. We live in a home in the San Anton bajo neighborhood, which I like a lot because there is little traffic, the building codes here limit homes to be three stories high, and we are ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Spanish banks charge a lot if you use a cash machine (sucursal) that is not from your bank to withdraw money, so an important consideration is the distance from where you live to your bank as well as the availability of sucursales in places that you ... Read More
Life as a female expat in Spain by Priscilla
Hello, While moving to a new country and discovering new cultures is definitely an exciting adventure, everybody experiences it differently. It can be particularly different for women, in both positive and negative ways. What are some positive ...
My daughter in law is 29, very attractive and Spanish. In our weekly family lunches lots of subjects are discussed and I am sure if Spanish guys were over-agressive that point would have come up, but I've never heard anything like that ... Read More
English, living in Cyprus, wanting to move to Spain by English*Alisha
Hello everybody this is my first time writing so please be patient with me I’m a little clueless as to how this works, I live in Cyprus, from England and I’d like to move to Spain to be a little bit more comfortable as with me I have my ...
All of my kids went to Spanish public school and have done well. Within a few months to a year they will be fluent in Spanish schools. I am not too plugged into the dj scene, but there is not a British pub scene in Alicante that I know of. There is ... Read More
Health care in spain will be free by Johncar
It appears there will be free health care in Spain [url]https://www.thinkspain.com/news-articles#p:/news-spain/30639/government-to-make-healthcare-free-and-universal-again-within-six-weeks[/url]
Thanks Unity for addressing many points that I neglected to address, especially the one on pre-existing conditions. Read More
Health care in spain will be free by Johncar
It appears there will be free health care in Spain [url]https://www.thinkspain.com/news-articles#p:/news-spain/30639/government-to-make-healthcare-free-and-universal-again-within-six-weeks[/url]
In response to paper detective, here is the ranking according to WHO. http://thepatientfactor.com/canadian-health-care-information/world-health-organizations-ranking-of-the-worlds-health-systems/ which puts Spain at 7th. Another list puts Spain at ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Reply to Koko: Santa Pola is a nice town about 20 km south of Alicante. I have been there many times. Has good restaurants, interesting roman and iberian ruins, and you can likely find a chalet there. The last time we went it was to buy fresh ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
I live in Alicante and can probably give you tips on some things. Imam an American, so I may not be able to help directly on taxes, but I would suggest that you look into whether Canada has a tax treaty with Spain (they probably do). On another ... Read More
What to do with my beloved Corsa by RandySteiner
Hi there, I have a right-hand drive 1.2 2005 Vauxhall Corsa in my garage which has been sitting there for nearly 2 years now. The police stopped me driving in Valencia because I'd been driving it for a year without paying Spanish road tax, ...
In the US, collectors buy spare cars for parts, so you might try to find a collector. I have had cars sit for a couple of years without starting start up ok. You will need to put fresh gas in the gastank, enough so at least 50% is new gas. If I ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here - 2018 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Click on the envelope upper right corner, then send a message to johncar. Read More
Not becoming a tax resident. by blackrabbit
Hi, I am a new member here and have a couple of questions to help me on planning. Here is the background and what I want to achieve: My two young children will be going to a Spanish private school for two years for an experience later this year. My ...
This thread is very intetesting and I hope that expat keeps it alive for some time in the future. Just a quick reply to paper detectives post, I do pay 80 or 100 euros for my tax return to be completed and submitted to hacienda every year, but my ... Read More
Car insurance + road license cost - calculator by velja
Hello, Could anyone please give me some info on this subject because I cant find any info on the subject. I need to get a car asap but I have no clue of what costs are waiting for me. Any help would be greatly appreciated
To answer this question properly you need to provide more information about yourself. Are you an experienced driver? Already have a driver's license in another country? Where are you getting your license in Spain? A rough estimate would be 500 ... Read More
Not becoming a tax resident. by blackrabbit
Hi, I am a new member here and have a couple of questions to help me on planning. Here is the background and what I want to achieve: My two young children will be going to a Spanish private school for two years for an experience later this year. My ...
Can't answer the first question, as my kids all went to public schools. My guess would be no. Generally, the Spanish tax system is much simpler than the US, with less write offs, so I doubt that info would be reported to hacienda. As for ... Read More
Not becoming a tax resident. by blackrabbit
Hi, I am a new member here and have a couple of questions to help me on planning. Here is the background and what I want to achieve: My two young children will be going to a Spanish private school for two years for an experience later this year. My ...
Just to clarify my case, my wife is a Spanish national and was working and declaring in Spain during this period. We filed as married filing separately. i mght add that I was unable to find a professional with US/Spain experience in Alicante. Read More
Not becoming a tax resident. by blackrabbit
Hi, I am a new member here and have a couple of questions to help me on planning. Here is the background and what I want to achieve: My two young children will be going to a Spanish private school for two years for an experience later this year. My ...
I was in this position for a number of years. I didn't file in Spain, and did file in the US, and did not have any problems. I recommend keeping a copy of your airline reservations and boarding passes with your tax information, as well as copies ... Read More
becoming tax resident by Johncar
People coming to live in Spain should be aware that one becomes tax resident if :- their centre of economic activity is in Spain, they move here, their family live here, they have no other country where they are registered ...
Just read through the tax home part of the treaty, and depending on how one interprets the language, it does seem that under certsin conditions one could declare a tax home in the country where one's finsncial base is, under the condition that ... Read More
How to communicate to Spanish tax agencia that I left the country
Your message is a bit confusing. You write that you got a social security number but no NIE. I assume from what you have written that you have a NIE (numero de identidad extranjero), but you did not get an id card (tarjeta). As far as I can tell ... Read More
International vs. Spanish State schools by Heatherrr
Hello - my husband and I are hoping to move our family to the Costa del Sol within the next two years. Our sons are currently 6 and 7, shortly turning 7 and 8. One of the biggest concerns I have about moving to Spain is how difficult it will be for ...
I put my kids in public school in Castelldefels near Barcelona in the 1990s and they adjusted well, but at a young age it is a good idea to ask the teacher and administration how they are adjusting. My youngest son, who didn't know any Catalan, ... Read More
Enrolling kids in public schools
It has been quite a while since my US kids went to school in Spain, so I am not current on everything you might need. You will need vaccination records and transcripts from the US. The Spanish Vaccination schedule differs from the US. I think that ... Read More
Cooking like a local in Spain by Priscilla
Hello, Enjoying the local food of your expat country is great, but learning to cook the dishes yourself is even better. Please share what it's like cooking like a local in Spain. What are some of the most popular local dishes that are easy to ...
The same thing happens to me. My tablet allows me to set multiple alarms which I use when cooking. Read More
Cooking like a local in Spain by Priscilla
Hello, Enjoying the local food of your expat country is great, but learning to cook the dishes yourself is even better. Please share what it's like cooking like a local in Spain. What are some of the most popular local dishes that are easy to ...
Well, Gazpacho is a start. I assume that it is Gazpacho Andaluz. So you might try making Gazpacho Manchego, which is totally different or marmitako, or escalivada (not too difficult) or .... Read More
Cooking like a local in Spain by Priscilla
Hello, Enjoying the local food of your expat country is great, but learning to cook the dishes yourself is even better. Please share what it's like cooking like a local in Spain. What are some of the most popular local dishes that are easy to ...
Agree with Culebron Chris entirely. The few Euros that you save getting a "good" deal on moralla at the market translates into a poor fumet, which in turn becomes a substandard paella. As a practicing "Maruja" with a working wife ... Read More
Study Spanish in Spain
I agree with Culebron Chris. I learned Spanish in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico when I was 20 years old. In my case, I rode a motorcycle to Mexico, met a local family, and ended up building a shack on land that they owned, where I stayed. Although ... Read More
IRS Taxes and Buying a Home by Jerry4usa
Hello Everyone, I do not seek legal advice, just opinions and perhaps the wisdom from someone who has been on my shoes. I am actively working in moving to Spain as a retiree from USA (Jubilado Spain Visa). As a military retiree, divorced, and ...
As a USA expat, if you as considering the move strictly on a financial basis, you will be disappointed. Both Spain and the US tax on worldwde earnings, so technically you would have to declare your earnings in the US as well as Spain in your Tax ... Read More
The process of moving to Spain by Kevlar21
Hi all, we are seriously considering making the move to Spain, can anyone tell us what process we have to take in order to be able to live in Spain. Also we found a house in a place called Sax not to far from Alicante, can anyone tell me what the ...
Sax is a nice town. My son has a number of friends there. I do not think there are a lot of expats living there, although one of my son's friends from Sax was from the UK. Read More
Thinking of buying an apartment by Johnboy
I’m interested in buying a holiday home in Alicante city, seen apartments advertised at £30 - £40,000 - would these be in areas which are safe. Looking for areas that are quiet and on the tram/bus route also would like to be close to ...
I haven't purchased a property myself so i cant help on that matter. You should work through a reputable realtor that has experience with selling properties to foreigners. My wife recently purchased a garage and used a notary. Notaries here do a ... Read More
Thinking of buying an apartment by Johnboy
I’m interested in buying a holiday home in Alicante city, seen apartments advertised at £30 - £40,000 - would these be in areas which are safe. Looking for areas that are quiet and on the tram/bus route also would like to be close to ...
Speaking as an American, anywhere in Alicante is safe relative to most cities in the US. You may be able to get a small apartment or an older apartment in a good area for that price. Generally, the area of 400 viviendas, Juan XXIII, and virgen de ... Read More
Capital gains tax by Frimley 2000
Does anyone have experience regarding spanish capital gains tax? My husband is over 65, we've lived in Spain for over 3 years and are both fiscal residents and residents. We have been told my husband is exempt from paying this tax as he is ...
Might put the house in your husband's name before selling it, then declare your taxes separately. Probably should run that idea by an accountant. Read More
The jobs that are the most in-demand for expats in Spain by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share some information regarding the job market for expats in Spain. This information will be incredibly helpful to anyone considering moving there, so we're very grateful for your contribution. What are the types of ...
construction, farm laborer, bar and restaurants catering to tourists, translation services. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
I should say culebronchris' pricing is accurate. Rental price varies according to quality and age of the flat, but 2-3 bedroom flats can be found for 300 euros on up. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
I'm in Alicante and these costs are pretty accurate. We have a wood stove for heating but also use a heat pump for individual rooms. Last year we spent about 30 euros on wood but didnt use it all. Not sureon electric cost with heat pump but not ... Read More
British Passport / visa requirements? by llangenhoven
If you have a British passport, what are the visa requirements? Are the British still considered part of the EU or has Brexit scuttled all of that?
On the visa, it depends if the country visited is a Schengen country. For example, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland is not part of the EU, but are Schengen counries. Last trip that I took to Iceland from Spain, there was no passport control at all. Read More
Entrepreneur Visa for Spain by llangenhoven
We are looking to move to Spain from the Houston, TX area. We want to make the move in 2020. I've been reading a number of the posts. Tons of interesting information. I see a number of people going for the "Retirement" or ...
Depends on where you live, when the home was constructed and other factors, but generally it is less. As an example, we live in the San Anton neighborhood in Alicante, and have a home that sits on two city lots. For the old part of the home, which ... Read More
Entrepreneur Visa for Spain by llangenhoven
We are looking to move to Spain from the Houston, TX area. We want to make the move in 2020. I've been reading a number of the posts. Tons of interesting information. I see a number of people going for the "Retirement" or ...
Both Spain and the US require you to report worldwide income. You pat taxes to the country that is your tax home, basically where you reside (see 1040 information). Spain and the US have a tax treaty so you are not doubly taxed. Most people living ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Your best bet is to apply at private schools. If you can get a job offer, you can then get residency. Teaching positions at public schools are filled based on testing, seniority and other factors and I am pretty sure that you have to be a Spanish ... Read More
Questions about moving to Spain by AndrewPowellYoung
1. How to get an NIE number when not resident in Spain. We will need it to buy a house to move into. 2. Can anyone recommend good estate agents and lawyers in and around Alicante. We are particularly interested in finding an old finca or country ...
There are many second hand stores in Alicante. You can buy used furniture as well as appliances at them, In my opinion the better ones are outside the city center, in el pla, Carolinas, etc. You don't need a lawyer to buy property. Generally a ... Read More
Spain Non Lucrative Visa by jjmcmillin35
Hello! I am contemplating applying for the Spanish non-lucrative Visa and I have a few questions about this process so hoping someone else has done it and can help me out! 1 I work remotely for a US company. Would this be a permissible source of ...
On taxes, you pay taxes to the country where you reside or your tax home (see irs or country regulations). In the case of the US and Spain you declare worldwide income on both countries, but due to the tax treaty, most people (unless you earn a lot ... Read More
Moving to Spain with 4 kids to Costa Del Sol or Costa Blanca by Tatiana.lux.1456
Hi, My husband' office told him he could retire much earlier that we expected , with his pension of course much less than the salary. so we are planning to move from Luxembourg to Spain. Our situation: married with 4 kids ( 10yo, 7yo, 4yo and ...
On schools in Alicante, the principle language in public schools is Spanish. You do have the option at some schools to have your children taught in Valenciano (Catalan). My son and my two stepchildren went to elementary school at Joaquin Sorolla in ... Read More
Taxes for US citizens? by happierexpat
I'm considering moving to Spain and one concern is taxes since as per US law, I'll still have to pay US income tax. 1. Is Spain like Canada where I only have to pay the difference? (So if I'm paying 17% US income tax and Canadian income ...
Well , ok, it is as SimCity and EdPsych say. I advise all Trump-voting Americans to stay in the US and keep voting Trump. Read More
Interesting customs and traditions in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living outside of our home country requires us to adapt to a new culture and different traditions. What are some of the cultural specifics in Spain? What are some of the traditional beliefs and cultural practices that you have ...
You can have paella for dinner at many of the touristy restaurants in Alicante, along the espanade or on calle Mayor, for example. We usually don't order paella, unless my wife knows that it is made as she makes it. That is, with a good fish ... Read More
Taxes for US citizens? by happierexpat
I'm considering moving to Spain and one concern is taxes since as per US law, I'll still have to pay US income tax. 1. Is Spain like Canada where I only have to pay the difference? (So if I'm paying 17% US income tax and Canadian income ...
Other taxes, IVA (value added tax) 4% to 21% depending on necessity of item is added into the cost when you pay. Property taxes where I live are much lower than for a property of comparable value in the US, maybe 1/4. Read More
Taxes for US citizens? by happierexpat
I'm considering moving to Spain and one concern is taxes since as per US law, I'll still have to pay US income tax. 1. Is Spain like Canada where I only have to pay the difference? (So if I'm paying 17% US income tax and Canadian income ...
Spain, like the US requires you to declare world wide earnings. If your tax home is Spain, then you pay according to your earnings. I am married to a Spanish national and we file separately. I earn about $35,000 per year. In Spain I pay around 19% ... Read More
Interesting customs and traditions in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living outside of our home country requires us to adapt to a new culture and different traditions. What are some of the cultural specifics in Spain? What are some of the traditional beliefs and cultural practices that you have ...
The milk curdles because the lemon is acidic and at least in Alicante, and probably throughout Valencia, no one except tourists eat paella for dinner. It is too "heavy" a meal for late in the evening. Now I am sure that I will receive a ... Read More
Interesting customs and traditions in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living outside of our home country requires us to adapt to a new culture and different traditions. What are some of the cultural specifics in Spain? What are some of the traditional beliefs and cultural practices that you have ...
Guess I thought it was obvious. Read More
Interesting customs and traditions in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living outside of our home country requires us to adapt to a new culture and different traditions. What are some of the cultural specifics in Spain? What are some of the traditional beliefs and cultural practices that you have ...
Well its important to learn customs correctly. As an American when I first travelled to Europe I heard the English drank tea with milk so I thought I would try it. As an American I always drank tea with a sqeeze of lemon. Added some milk and ... Read More
kids' get-together?
Try going to Montañeta plaza by El corte Ingles. There are usually dozens of kids there and a large area where they can play or you could take him to the MARQ museum. Sorry, I don't have any kids that age. Read More
Novel Question on U. S. Pension and Social Security Taxes by JoseVill2
Hi everyone living in Spain from the U. S. (I envy you so)! My questions are directed to any expats who are former U. S. green card holders and who receive a U. S. pension and/or Social Security benefits: 1. Is your pension and/or social security ...
By deductions, I mean what the entity, in this case Prudential or Fidelity takes out of my dibursement, NOT what I am taxed. For example, if I withdraw $20,000 from my IRA, i get $16,000, and $4000 is held back by the government. After I file my ... Read More
Cashing in Spanish retirement accounts
I am having problems cashing in my retirement account at a Spanish bank. My situation is as follows. I am an American citizen, long time Spanish resident (since 1996). I am retired (not actively working in any country) and I am 66 years old. Up ... Read More
Moving to Spain with 4 kids to Costa Del Sol or Costa Blanca by Tatiana.lux.1456
Hi, My husband' office told him he could retire much earlier that we expected , with his pension of course much less than the salary. so we are planning to move from Luxembourg to Spain. Our situation: married with 4 kids ( 10yo, 7yo, 4yo and ...
Alicante is a medium sized city and I love living here. I have lived in Barcelona and Valencia as well. Barcelona is too large for my taste, but I did like Valencia. The reason that I live here is that my wife had a home here and lived here when we ... Read More
Moving to Spain with 4 kids to Costa Del Sol or Costa Blanca by Tatiana.lux.1456
Hi, My husband' office told him he could retire much earlier that we expected , with his pension of course much less than the salary. so we are planning to move from Luxembourg to Spain. Our situation: married with 4 kids ( 10yo, 7yo, 4yo and ...
Might look at Elche. Small city, inland, close to sea. Beautiful area, good government, Close to altet airport (lots of traffic). Probably good schools. I live in Alicante, but like Elche. My children went to public school in Alicante and I am very ... Read More
Novel Question on U. S. Pension and Social Security Taxes by JoseVill2
Hi everyone living in Spain from the U. S. (I envy you so)! My questions are directed to any expats who are former U. S. green card holders and who receive a U. S. pension and/or Social Security benefits: 1. Is your pension and/or social security ...
Hello Jose, I am a retired American living in Alicante and can answer some of your questions. First of all, if Trump's tax plan goes through, I have no idea how things may change, but the good news is that there is a tax treaty between Spain ... Read More
Keeping in touch while living in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the best ways you've found for keeping in touch with friends and family back home while living in Spain? How frequently do you stay in touch with loved ones? Are there local equivalents to common instant messaging and ...
I have a need for a stable US telephone number, and have had the same skype number for a long time, so for now I will keep it. Thanks for the info, though. Haven't called on google. Read More
Keeping in touch while living in Spain by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the best ways you've found for keeping in touch with friends and family back home while living in Spain? How frequently do you stay in touch with loved ones? Are there local equivalents to common instant messaging and ...
Whatsapp in Spain and Europe and Skype in the US. I have a skype number in the US that works like a local phone. Also use messenger at times. I have had my US skype number for perhaps 20 years at around $30/yr for the tel number and $3/mo local ... Read More