rogerroberts22
English expat in Spain
Forum posts
49
Contacts
2
About me
English
Registration: 18 January 2024
Healthcare HMG by Frankcollett
I have a query.I believe that as pensioners from Blighty, HMG pays Spain to look after us, healthwise, to the tune of around 4K per year, each.I have an issue flagged up here in November 22. An Ultrasound scan was carried out in May 24 and I was ...
@Frankcollett No the UK will not speed up your medical needs. It is up to the Spanish Health Authority and the Doctor who is responsible for your medical needs. It is not unusual to wait for several months before getting treatment /results. You ... Read More
New members of the Spain forum, introduce yourselves here - 2024 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Spain forum? Don't 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 expat ...
Just walk into your local Bar and you will meet a lot of ex pats and also Spanish. You don't need a formal introduction !! Read More
Least humid town in Andalusia by Forguppies
Can anyone tell me if there is a town or city or district in Andalusia with low humidity? What is the area or town with the lowest humidity levels in the south?
I don't t know, but I've very been told the Coast gets more sea breeze than inland towns. Humidity in most inland towns in Andalucia is extremely high. I would not recommend living there between April and October. It may sound crazy, but Humidity ... Read More
Navigating administrative procedures in Spain by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Navigating through the administration in Spain can be quite a challenge. With the variety of procedures, their complexity, and the local specifics, many factors need to be considered. Here are some questions worth ...
@jchilton The true face of Spain is in their bureaucracy. Downright nasty. Read More
loading Teeveeing onto amazon tv firestick. by letmespain
Hi, Like many of you we subscribed to TVMucho for a few years until they were taken over by Teeveeing. I can no longer connect to Teeveeing through TVMucho so I need to download the Teeveeing app onto my amazon firestick. I cant seem to download ...
I have it on a small box that I connect to the TV via a hdmi cable. Read More
Looking for advice on buying a house in Spain by fabio_bonomo
Hello, I am an Italian currently living in London. I am looking to purchase a modest family home in Spain with the following features: - within 20 minutes drive to the sea; - 3 bedrooms; - within 1 hour drive to an airport; - village or town ...
Only catch is you need a EU Passport? What about those who don't have one? Read More
Cultural offerings in Spain by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Expatriation in Spain presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture. Let's explore the local cultural scene together through the eyes of expats: practical advice, essential institutions, and different ...
Mallorca life does not represent Spanish life. Spain is a big Country and your experiences merely spotlight a tiny part of a Spanish Island. Very misleading and not relevant. Speaking the language is also irrelevant to the question. Apart from the ... Read More
Cultural offerings in Spain by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Expatriation in Spain presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture. Let's explore the local cultural scene together through the eyes of expats: practical advice, essential institutions, and different ...
@jchilton In Spain, you can NEVER put Politics aside! It's what shapes the Spanish mentality and deep seated predjudice against anything that looks and smells foreign. The Country you describe seems more like Disneyland than the harsh reality of ... Read More
Cultural offerings in Spain by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Expatriation in Spain presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture. Let's explore the local cultural scene together through the eyes of expats: practical advice, essential institutions, and different ...
Apparently, there are more Spanish Town Mayors jailed than any other European Country. Corruption is Endemic in Spain and Vox is the 3rd largest Political Party in Spain. It's politics are anti immigration, Anti Muslim, Anti tourism and Anti ... Read More
Most cost effective way of buying out brother by Lvp69
Hi AllI was really appreciate anyone’s advice. I want to buy my brother out of his half share of a house we own in Spain that we inherited two years ago. The Solicitors come back with half a dozen different taxes that I would need to pay ...
Seems Kosher. As long as your neighbours don't "borrow" it when your away. Pay a visit to your Local Land Registry to check all is upto date and the change of ownership is in your name. Also make sure you have checked if the Town Hall and the Land ... Read More
Most cost effective way of buying out brother by Lvp69
Hi AllI was really appreciate anyone’s advice. I want to buy my brother out of his half share of a house we own in Spain that we inherited two years ago. The Solicitors come back with half a dozen different taxes that I would need to pay ...
One last thing, make sure you have a space to park your car. !!! Read More
Most cost effective way of buying out brother by Lvp69
Hi AllI was really appreciate anyone’s advice. I want to buy my brother out of his half share of a house we own in Spain that we inherited two years ago. The Solicitors come back with half a dozen different taxes that I would need to pay ...
@Lvp69 It seems Kosher, but I would suggest you hire a Surveyor to look at the fig tree. Might be worth asking why the house next door has remained empty for so long? Check If the area is modernised and the Town Hall is not riddled with red tape? ... Read More
Most cost effective way of buying out brother by Lvp69
Hi AllI was really appreciate anyone’s advice. I want to buy my brother out of his half share of a house we own in Spain that we inherited two years ago. The Solicitors come back with half a dozen different taxes that I would need to pay ...
@Lvp69 Does it have Town water or well water? Was it built legally. Is it a legal build and all the new extensions registered with the Land Registry? Is the sewage, Septic tanks or Town sewerage? Does it have an Architect Certificate? . Does it ... Read More
Most cost effective way of buying out brother by Lvp69
Hi AllI was really appreciate anyone’s advice. I want to buy my brother out of his half share of a house we own in Spain that we inherited two years ago. The Solicitors come back with half a dozen different taxes that I would need to pay ...
@Lvp69 In my last reply I advised hiring a Lawyer this is vital, but just as vital is hiring a Surveyor who will find out all the nasty problems that you will also take on when purchasing the property. There are so many hidden problems when ... Read More
Most cost effective way of buying out brother by Lvp69
Hi AllI was really appreciate anyone’s advice. I want to buy my brother out of his half share of a house we own in Spain that we inherited two years ago. The Solicitors come back with half a dozen different taxes that I would need to pay ...
@Lvp69You will need a Lawyer. Or leave it abandoned. That's what a lot of Spanish do when in the same predicament. They figure it's cheaper and safer, because you may find out your brother has borrowed money on the equity. Worse still, it may not ... Read More
Working Remotely for another company in another country by MadEngineerLT
Hello, I am a software engineer and I plan to move to Spain from another EU country. I might work there locally for a year or so but then I would like to work for a better paying country like Germany or Switzerland remotely since Spanish salaries ...
Your question is very complicated. You certainly need a Tax Accountant. From my point of view, I cannot see you earning enough to live in Spain. But this is just my opinion. Read More
NLV Health Insurance for over age 75 by Seaandsun4me
I’m looking for health insurance that meets the requirements of the non-lucrative visa for retirees for over age 75. I’m struggling to find a plan for over 75. Does anyone have experience with this? Is there a Spanish insurance that ...
Tough question. Im 80 years old, the one I use is DKV. A health Insurance Company providing medical insurance for ex pats in Spain. They are expensive and their premiums increase with your age. They are a German Company and advertise throughout ... Read More
Selling an apartment - Salou - Costa Dorada by Mark Areva
Hi all,I inherited an apartment from my parents last year and wish to sell this year. I wondered if anyone had tried selling/marketing themselves, without using an agency and could advise?Best wishes,Mark.
@Mark Areva Use a Lawyer and a Surveyor. You have no idea what they might discover that you need to find out. A lot of people have inherited properties in Spain that have a lot of problems. They are too many to list, but the obvious ones are ... Read More
Any chance of living in Spain? by cordwell3356
Hi all! I'm an Englishman wanting to live in Spain. My long term girlfriend is from and lives there. She has spoken to her lawyer and apparently I need a clean criminal record to get residency (we are planning to get married)The problem is when I ...
@cordwell3356 It was a long time ago. If it was your first offence and you have no other criminal record, it will be removed from the UK Police Records. Read More
Los Angeles Spanish Consulate by rdruby699
I am hoping to retire to Spain in May 2024.I’m working with a Spanish immigration lawyer (based in Barcelona), and I’ve compiled all the necessary documents, done the Apostille for the FBI background check, & had the required ...
This may seem stupid, but why don't you knock on their door? Emails are not effective in these situations. Read More
Buying a house in Spain by GuestPoster8490
This weekend my cousin from Denmark is going to Spain to look at houses for sale. Can anyone please give a list of what to look out for? What kinds of questions to ask the seller/realtor? She'll be looking in the Alicante area, something near (ish) ...
@Ascendinghigher There are several reasons why you should never buy a property in a Community of houses supplied only by Well water. By law, the Well must be outside the boundary of the Community to avoid contamination with sewage water in septic ... Read More
Cost of living in Spain in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Spain, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in Spain. Here are ...
@electra777 OK I understand now. Your tax returns are far more complex than ours. We used to file our own returns but I made a mistake one year, so I figured it was wiser to use an expert. We have used her for over 10 years and it's all done with a ... Read More
Buying a house in Spain by GuestPoster8490
This weekend my cousin from Denmark is going to Spain to look at houses for sale. Can anyone please give a list of what to look out for? What kinds of questions to ask the seller/realtor? She'll be looking in the Alicante area, something near (ish) ...
@Lisestrahle Try and avoid Communities with Presidents and Secretaries. Well water is ok, but it's the person who has the key to the pump room that will make your life unbearable. Usually Presidents bann access to the pump room. So the person with ... Read More
Cost of living in Spain in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in Spain, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in Spain. Here are ...
@electra777 your accountant is charging a lot to file your tax returns. We are a retired couple and pay 70Euros a year. But she is not an Accountant. She is an Estate agent but does tax returns for English retirees. . They are not complicated ... Read More
Relocating to Spain / Schools / Cost of living by ertay58
We are looking at relocating to Spain, will be myself, partner, daughter (6), son (2) and our 2 cats. We will be looking at getting our kids into an international school, but a reasonably priced one. So far our favourite is San Alberto Magno, does ...
@ertay58 Remember, last year Spain experienced its worst heatwave in decades that forced the population to live indoors for over 3 months in front of fans and aircon units. It will be worse this year because of the terrifying draught it ... Read More
Buying a house in Spain by GuestPoster8490
This weekend my cousin from Denmark is going to Spain to look at houses for sale. Can anyone please give a list of what to look out for? What kinds of questions to ask the seller/realtor? She'll be looking in the Alicante area, something near (ish) ...
Before you visit the property check the water supply is Town water. Never buy property with only well water supply. Check the sewerage system, never buy property with only septic tanks in your garden. Never trust what the Seller or Estate Agent ... Read More
Need 30,000eur cash in Ibiza to pay for wedding by Adman77
Hi all. I’ve joined the forum as i suspect you guys may be the most knowledgable and most likely able to advise on my situation I am due to get married in ibiza this summer and we are trying to pay for as much as possible in cash (spoken to ...
Actually, the Guy has a point. Tax Fraud is a serious crime. The reason why the Wedding Organisers want cash is because they don't have to declare it as income and don't have to give you an invoice as proof they received the money. My Garage never ... Read More
My plans are to buy a second home in Spain by GaryLarson
@JulienSeeking advice please!Hello Julien and fellow members of the Spain forum. My name is Gary - I am a 59 year old, single gay American man living currently in Amsterdam. My plans are to buy a second home in Spain in the next few months and to ...
Avoid rural properties with just well water. Avoid Communities with Presidents.Look for properties near train station to main City. Don't live next to neighbours whose kids have airguns. My little dog had 3 pellets removed after the kids next door ... Read More
What is a NIE ? by raeleneclarke
I have seen reference to an NIE for spain. what is this?
Here in Spain, you can't get out of bed without your NIE. A bit of an exaggeration, but you need to think like this when living in Spain. It serves as your identity ID and you must carry it on you at ALL times. Read More
How to transfer money from Spanish property sale into Revolut by peterchin2
Initially I sold my place in U.K. and was able to use the funds to buy a Spanish property. Now I am ready to sell my Spanish property and put the money back into U.K. of course I am happy to pay all local taxes in Spain first.
I was going to recommend Wise as well. Read More
What is a NIE ? by raeleneclarke
I have seen reference to an NIE for spain. what is this?
Yes. At the Post Office, when picking up a parcel, the Chemist, the Health Clinic etc etc. Read More
How to transfer money from Spanish property sale into Revolut by peterchin2
Initially I sold my place in U.K. and was able to use the funds to buy a Spanish property. Now I am ready to sell my Spanish property and put the money back into U.K. of course I am happy to pay all local taxes in Spain first.
I use Wise. They don't ask questions about where I got the money from. My Spanish Bank is constantly asking where my money is coming from and demanding copies of all my UK Bank Account Statements. They really are very intrusive and unpleasant. ... Read More
taxes in Spain by zurlita
Hi, Everybody!We are a couple of US citizens who moved to Spain at the end of July last year. I would like to add that we only live in Spain, but we don’t have income from Spain. My question is: do we need to file taxes in Spain for 2023 if we ...
I think the tax deadline is June 21st? You will need to find someone who will sort out your tax returns. It's easier than trying to sort it out yourself. I pay 70 euros to an English speaking Spanish Estate Agent who also does tax returns and ... Read More
Need 30,000eur cash in Ibiza to pay for wedding by Adman77
Hi all. I’ve joined the forum as i suspect you guys may be the most knowledgable and most likely able to advise on my situation I am due to get married in ibiza this summer and we are trying to pay for as much as possible in cash (spoken to ...
Seriously, why don't you use Wise. Just transfer 30k from your UK Bank to Wise and draw cash from an ATM over 7 -10 days. Read More
British expats in Spain: what do you think about voting from abroad? by Ameerah Arjanee
Hello everyone, I'm a content writer for Expat Magazine. We are looking for testimonies from British expats in Spain about the latest news (concerning voting from outside the UK). What is your opinion about the UK government's decision to allow 3 ...
@Ameerah Arjanee I think it's well overdue and makes us feel less foreign. When you leve your own Country its always hard ...even in the good times. Giving ex pats a vote in their own Country makes things less hard as a foreigner. Read More
Need 30,000eur cash in Ibiza to pay for wedding
Find a money launderer? Read More
Renting through Idealista by GuestPoster8490
Can someone please tell me if idealista is a trusted reputable site? Are the listings accurate to the description, etc? I'm wondering if people have any problems with them. Thank you.
Without your NIE you will find it almost impossible to live in Spain. Get this before even considering making Spain your new home. Read More
Where to start in terms areas to look to live ? by chriswoolfenden
Hi, I'm Chris, I'm from the UK (with dual Irish citizenship) and living in London! My wife and I (in our 30's) are looking at the possibility of moving to Spain. We're both very familiar with the Benalmadena, Mijas, La Cala, Calahonda and Marbella ...
@chriswoolfenden Thanks for your reply. One thing we did get right was too buy a rural house near a railway station. This means we can park the car and hop on a train and can be in Malaga in 24 minutes. It's very difficult to find parking spaces ... Read More
Jeff in Alicante by spanishartelcampello
Hola,I'm Jeff, an expat Brit now living in Alicante. I used to work in museums, Colchester castle (Circa AD 1080) and other museums. My late father was curator of the Natural history museum in Colchester. Famous for it's Romano British remains, ...
I tend to think of English History, in terms of the number of excavations I was involved in as a kid. As the son of a Curator, I was involved in a lot. My Dad was involved in the Orkney excavations in the 1930s. In the 1950s I remember him ... Read More
Jeff in Alicante by spanishartelcampello
Hola,I'm Jeff, an expat Brit now living in Alicante. I used to work in museums, Colchester castle (Circa AD 1080) and other museums. My late father was curator of the Natural history museum in Colchester. Famous for it's Romano British remains, ...
Sorry, Colchester not Cirencester I must have been thinking of excavations around the area. Read More
Jeff in Alicante by spanishartelcampello
Hola,I'm Jeff, an expat Brit now living in Alicante. I used to work in museums, Colchester castle (Circa AD 1080) and other museums. My late father was curator of the Natural history museum in Colchester. Famous for it's Romano British remains, ...
@spanishartelcampello My Foster father was Curator of Peterborough, Aylesbury, and Taunton Museum. He started at Stockport Museum as Assistant Curator. Taunton Museum is in the Castle that is in the centre of the Town. When I was a kid I lived ... Read More
Low water pressure in country house by Gettravelling
Hi All,We have a country (rustic) house in Spain, the water comes into the house from a shared reservoir (pozo as they call it in Spain).This has been okay in summer, but the water pressure is very low and so now that we are coming into winter we ...
@Gettravelling Your Plumper is correct You need to build a water tank that holds a lot of water that will supply your house for at least 2 weeks. Calculate how many toilets you have, bathrooms, kitchen sinks etc. Your Plumper will build a pump ... Read More
New to the community
If you need to work in Spain, I suggest areas where there are businesses and retail outlets. If you cannot speak Spanish you will find it very difficult to get a job. Read More
I am seeking to move to Spain by lozloc
Hi, my name is Laura. i currently reside in the UK but am seeking to move to Spain. i am open to working in Spain within an IT Service Management sector. i would love to retire to Spain but dont have the means to qualify for a golden visa. My ...
@lozloc Do you know where in Spain you want to live? Your job search will limit you to big Cities with IT Parks. Read More
Where to start in terms areas to look to live ? by chriswoolfenden
Hi, I'm Chris, I'm from the UK (with dual Irish citizenship) and living in London! My wife and I (in our 30's) are looking at the possibility of moving to Spain. We're both very familiar with the Benalmadena, Mijas, La Cala, Calahonda and Marbella ...
@chriswoolfenden Seems you have a good plan, Rent before you buy. When my wife and I first came to Spain we did everything wrong and after 21 years still paying for the mistakes we made. We wanted to run a Holiday lets business, so we ... Read More