🇪🇸 Watch Live Like a King in Madrid to see how to live in luxury in Spain, while also taking advantage of business and investment opportunities, as well as surprising tax advantages and possibly a pathway to Spanish citizenship: th-cam.com/video/0Y9HskItx60/w-d-xo.html
@@Jackson-e4k I have lived in 11 countries in Europe, and I decided to settle and work from Spain. All things considered, as far as I am concerned, Spain is the best place to live in Europe. Yes, you can get lower taxes, or better this or that in other countries, but if you factor in everything and include things like weather, food, lifestyle then Spain is where I would advice people to go. Business-wise there are better places, tax-wise too, but as said, and as they say in this video; you have to take the good with the bad.
I’m a Spaniard from Madrid living in Paris, I’m moving back to Mallorca very very soon. The life spam is about our good hearts and the “ social fluidity “ he mentioned.
@@chinglee100 Si es cierto no se puede comparar....en Europa vamos a la escuela y al médico gratis, y no somos racistas, y tenemos buena alimentación y no nos inventamos la historia como en EEUU...madre mía cuanta ignorancia¡¡¡¡
@@chinglee100 Dude USA is the worst first world country to live in, and they are considered first world country just because of the money, in every other aspect of a country they are closer to Africa than to Europe.
All eyes 👀 are in Spain now, I know some of the reasons, not as entrepreneur, but as an immigrant (thankfully I have citizenship, I was born in Brasil to Spanish parents who naturalized me Spanish citizen since I was born) I know people are looking for: Lifestyle, decent healthcare, good quality free education, openness to get documentation, job opportunities, security, good weather and Spain offers it all (lots of the same reasons why immigrants are leaving Canada) I’ve lived in Brazil, where I was born, USA, Canada and now Spain, I would have SO much to share why Spain is the best of all and all the reasons why, can’t make it fit to a TH-cam comment.
I'm interested in retiring in Europe. I currently live in the North Eastern United States, and am interest in Spain or Portugal. I was born in Havana, Cuba and my paternal grandparents were born in Asturias, Spain. Also, my wife was born in Portugal. Based on your travel experiences, do you recommend I secure a Portuguese citizenship through my marriage, or a Spanish citizenship based on my grandparents birth legacy?
Probably my favorite conversation in this series to date between two of my favorite TH-camrs. I’d have said James probably places more emphasis on “lifestyle” elements - especially food - while Andrew is more about business and tax-optimization. The good thing about this conversation is that it shows that both of them actually have a deep and rounded understanding of the relocation experience - James has a hard-headed practical side, and Andrew has a soulful culture-vulture lurking beneath his entrepreneurial exterior!
I honestly think Spain is very underrated for what it has to offer to us people who want to become a citizen and contribute to the Spanish economy and be a part of country. This video has been quite informative, thank you.
Thank you for the compliment! In addition to showcasing luxury living in Spain, in our Live Like a King in Madrid episode we discuss a common pathway to Spanish citizenship: th-cam.com/video/0Y9HskItx60/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared&t=190
Maybe it was underrated, not anymore, IMO! Spain is still welcoming immigrants, lots of people are arriving and there is the good and not so good part of it! Countries open up for immigrants, because they have more jobs than people, but they forget to prepare the country for the massive arrival. Many locals don’t like it, specially the ones working for public sector, they also don’t prepare their public services to receive that much people, (health care, schools) housing…so it is nice that the country is open for immigration and willing to provide documentation to all, but lots of problems came with it and it can result in loosing lots of people at the same time.
@vanpak We don't have more jobs than people, that's the problem. We don't take in immigrants because we need workers, we take them in for political reasons, as not doing it is considered racist. We have MASSIVE and uncontrolled immigration, especially from Latin America, and we don't need more.
Excellent interview. I can vouch for most of the things that James mentioned. I was born in 1953 in Germany. At age six my German mother married an officer in the US Army who was from Puerto Rico. I grew up on the island until I left for the US mainland in late 1979. Growing up in PR in the 60’s and early 70’s was very similar to living in Spain. PR as a former colony of Spain, had retained its Spanish culture. Spanish culture was much more prevalent in PR until the mid 70’s. I grew up loving Spanish food, loving the Spanish influence on PR cuisine, the many Spanish restaurants and bakeries (panaderías),the constant visit of Spanish musicians, Spanish literature and Spanish movies. Today PR has become more of a mirror of the US than Spain, and I abhor this. As a child and young man growing up with Spanish influence, I came to miss it after I moved to the US. James mentioned the Madrid influence and I agree. I had acquaintances that came from Spain, and I was always told that Madrid was the place to be. Despite the new popularity of the costal cities and Barcelona, Madrid was always the major influencer. I have travelled to both Madrid and Barcelona and I prefer Madrid. I first travelled to Barcelona one month before the 1992 Olympics, and enjoyed the atmosphere, but there was always something that separated the Catalans from Madrid. For me, Madrid was the place to be in Spain. I am retired now and live in Colombia with my Colombian wife, but I am still hopeful to one day live in Madrid. As someone who has lived in NY City and Miami, who has travelled the world, there are two great cities for me, Buenos Aires and Madrid. I am happy to listen to James and know that what I always knew about Madrid is still so.
Great topics covered! While vacationing in Lisbon I noticed numerous protests concerning the cost of renting has greatly increased due to tourism. There is a cost, two parties oppositely affected interesting for sure.
Spaniards got to be buggin on all this focus on Spain. People been there for hundreds of years and suddenly folks from Chicago and Los Angeles start flocking there, and with zero language skills....what a bore.
Spain always has been a country of immigrants (I am one of them) specially to Northern Europe and the Americas but never anybody in Spain thought that we will have 94 million tourists this year, more than 600,000 legal and illegal newcomers and the incredible changes that this invasion is producing to the country. For any government will be hard to keep up with and specially adjust to the growing pains. I live in California and for many Americans Spain and Southern Europe is becoming "The place to be".
Europe has always been a continent of migrants. The English have emigrated more than anyone else-you can find them in almost every corner of the world. Wars and famine made life tough.
Not only Spain, all european countries have been countries of inmigranrs. Also in Spain we have 10 millions of inmigrants, not only 600.000. We are packed and we have massive uncontrolled inmigration.
Take these TH-cam videos with a big grain of salt. Both of these guys have something to sell so they're not going to tell you the full truth. Which is: Spain has the highest youth unemployment rate in Europes at over 30% and also the highest overall unemployment rate in Europe. Average wages have been stagnating - or in many cases even declining for years. The average full time salary is a bit less than $23,000 per year but about 60% of the population earn around $17,000. Housing prices in the big cities have increased astronomically. If you plan on coming here plan on paying a lot for rent and even more for a mortgage - even outside of Madrid / Barcelona etc ... Further, come here with A LOT of money, a fat pension and a job from abroad because if you plan on working here you'll be crying. Spain's wages are working conditions are third world while it's cost of living doesn't match. The number of people I've met that didn't do their due diligence and got caught out on cost of living, unscrupulous landlords, red-tape not to mention the social costs of living abroad is shocking.
No offense to spainards but having visited it just seems like Spanish government propaganda, a war which they are apparently winning. The taxes are insanely high, pay for all jobs is dismal, and yet costs are very high because of the strangling taxes. Yes I would hate to work in Spain too.
Healthcare in Spain is excellent IF you have private. You have to pay a couple of hundreds of euro's per month for 100% full coverage. The public transport system is pretty good and the bullet trains are very comfortable - better than flying if domestically. The climate is excellent along the coasts, the people are great, the food and wine amazing, the crime rate is low compared to most of Europe, and you have shill easy going lifestyle. That is why I live in Spain. in Europe I would say Spain is #1 place to be, and I have lived in 11 countries in Europe so trust me on that. Although I love Madrid I don't think I would like to live there. I live in the south, in Marbella, which is perfect and only a couple of hours away from Madrid if you want a weekend. I would even go as far as to say that South of Spain (Marbella) is top 5 best places in the entire world to live, all things considered. There are issues. Bureaucracy is kinda horrible, taxes are a bit too high, and its part of Europe which is not a good thing in the mid- to long run. But if someone is looking to buy property and have shill lovely home with easy going perfect lifestyle - move to where I am. It does not get better. Big tip to Americans especially.
@@Michaelcj-m2d You can only access the public health system if you have worked and paid taxes. Do you think they are going to regulate it for nothing?
@@e.o.9094 Being part of the EU has been decently beneficial for Spain yes, but not in the past few years and going forward being part of EU(SSR) is the same as a death sentence. Spain, as all other countries, would do best to leave the Euro and leave the EU(SSR).
We Spaniards have paid enormous taxes since we started working. In my case since I was 17 years old. Now that I make a salary that is considered good in Spain, I pay more than 50% in taxes. Any foreigner who wants to come to live is welcome, but they must pay taxes on all their belongings like any Spaniard. It is easy to come to live in Spain, but let the Spaniards with their taxes be the ones to maintain the Free highways, Fast Trains, universities, schools and hospitals that you like to use so much. If you have residence here, and money in the USA, you must pay taxes at the level here. Otherwise, stay in the USA.
Barcelona's massive problems began after far-leftist Ada Colau assumed office as Mayor in 2015. Following her tenure, crime surged and ran rampant, rent prices skyrocketed despite her housing activism, the city's infrastructure faced growing strain, traffic congestion worsened due to controversial urban mobility policies, and the once-thriving tourism sector struggled under heavy-handed restrictions and anti-tourist sentiment, alienating both visitors and local businesses
Exactly, after living in Barcelona for nearly 5 years I relocated to SE Asia earlier this year and the lifestyle improvement is night and day. Very surprised to hear Andrew talking about Spain so positively. Beginning to think the problems I'd been facing are localized to Barcelona and the rest of Catalunya. Curious about other people's opinions on this ...
Barcelona has two major problems, illegal immigration and mass tourists. Both have driven out the real population. People like these gentlemen, the way they talk, the comments,It will only contribute to expelling the remaining citizens and destroying the way of life that they neither know nor are interested in. They only want to go to a country that they perceive as cheap, easy and economically supported.
@@petrpenicka1134 It's a mystery to me to. Spain's problems are myriad - most serious being its "demographic winter." One of the longest life expectancies in the world couple with extremely low birth rates don't bode well for future tax burdens. Spain's coffers are empty now and it'll be increasingly desperate for revenue. That means they're coming for you.
The best strategy for me is to work in a higher paying economy in Europe in a flexible job for 2 weeks a month, earn the money there and live in Spain and do nothing for 2 weeks. I have been doing this for 8 years and it‘s great. Wages are too low in Spain, so if you work there, you will habe little time to enjoy the country!
@ there are plenty of jobs like that if you are experienced, working in a specialised field and have a higher degree. I have worked towards being independent like this for decades. Or you need a well-running business and find people that you can trust to run it for you when you are away. That will take you about a decade to set up as well.
I love the Spain James is talking about but I live in the real Spain, I´m never late, I weak up really early in the morning, work long long long hours and the salary is not great. I´ve lived in Switzerland , the UK and the USA. In all those countries I´ve been an immigrant, first studying there and after finishing studying working hard, but in all of those countries I´ve worked much less than in Spain and earnt much more. I love Spain but it´s not the fairy tale country James is talking about, it´s a great country with real hard working people. But I apreciate James because he´s trying so hard that Spain gets lots of people by selling a dream country. Thanks a lot James, I really like your dream country, even I live in the other side with real hard working people, not coming late and being just nice people. Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
When your life identity is what you work on then they have you trapped. Spain allows you to have a life and not just a 'career'. From a former New Yorker living in Madrid.
I was recently an emergency admission to a public hospital in Spain. I was unconscious, in a coma, so identifying me was difficult for the hospital. The medical treatment, general professionalism, friendliness and courtesy was absolutely superb.
The private healthcare system is Spain is top in Europe. Outside of a couple of Eastern European countries Spain is number one. Far ahead of horrible places such as Sweden, France and NL. The public hospitals in Spain are not very good. Average European at best, but with very slow service. Even at ER you can be waiting for hours.
@ my husbands life was saved by Drs in a public hospital in Spain and nearly killed by the stupidity and lack of care in 2 private hospitals prior.He had to wait, yes you’re correct 👍, but the treatment for a simple ailment that turned deadly was on point.
The Spanish government monitors people’s bank accounts, I was told that if an unspecified deposit is made, the authorities may want to check the account, and there is a gift tax if applicable. Buying or selling over €1000 must be reported to the authorities, so buying a car or big ticket item over € 1000 can not pay in cash , must use a bank draft I assume. It’s very financially intrusive environment for residents.
Not sure about that, I cannot find it confirmed for Spain -- but within the EU(SSR) the rule is €10,000. Anything above that needs to be reported, investigated and checked. This rule applies to ALL EU countries. I alway send €9,666 or €9696 just for fun...
@ l know Spain is fairly aggressive with their tax enforcement, but it may be different in other areas of Spain, I heard Madrid was the friendliest of the regions. There is gift tax , inheritance tax and wealth taxes in Spain from my understanding.
Europe is suffering a crisis that it will continue worsening. Burocracy, taxes, price of energy (due to the Ucranian war) inflation (people are getting poorer) , immigration, New Zealand is a much better place to live.
they sent me $2000 worth of speeding ticket fines after I got home last year. How long till those are cleared? Or should I just avoid Spain indefinitely?
If you centre your life around minimising taxes Spain will NEVER be a viable country to settle in. Period. But the real question is, does centring your life around avoiding taxes is life’s end game? One of the guys here thinks it is, the other, not so much
Yep. Precisely so. If you’re happy to trade off tax for lifestyle - Spain is your place. I think it’s not worth it if you are a foreigner. There are many other places where you can fit in and pay lower. If you for some reason have a particular love about the Spanish culture and language, then sure go for it. Similar to how one may be in love with Italian culture. But let’s be real. These are some of the worst countries in the world tax wise And you don’t need to be a genius to figure out it’ll get worse. Look at their debt to gdp, look at their economy, and most importantly look at the trajectory of both. I rest my case.
@@stanisgmi So right. Spain's pension system is already essentially broke. High life expectancy and an extremely low birth rate means you'll be taxed up the yazoo - especially in the Socialists stay in power.
Este norteamericano es un clasista, valora a las personas por la ropa cara , el dinero que se tiene en el banco, los metros ² de vivienda y los coches de marca en el garaje. 😂😂🤨 que desagradable me resulta. Soy española y no estoy acostumbrada a esta forma de pensar.
Por qué crees que hay tanta gente de Estados Unidos que se está mudando a España? Porque están hartos de esa mentalidad. Vienen estresados, la mayoría por cierto con problemas gastrointestinales que poco después de estar en España se les quita. No se puede vivir para trabajar como un esclavo para simplemente comprar cosas. Eres lo que eres capaz de comprarte. Son incapaces de disfrutar de la vida, porque ni siquiera se les cruza por la cabeza esa opción. Y la familia? Pues como mucho cuando tienen un hijo para presentárselo. Vacaciones? Un animal mitológico. Son tan pobres que solo tienen dinero.
Spain 🇪🇸 France 🇫🇷 or Switzerland 🇨🇭 are the only EU 🇪🇺 counties I would consider living in, even then only in certain parts. The EU as whole is following the same troubling ⚠️ trajectory as the USA 🇺🇸
The difference is that Spain mixed with Latin America, while the Anglo-Saxons and the French didn't. Now, immigration in England or France is a big issue. Their cultures are really different. In Spain, most of the immigration comes from Latin America, and many are the kids or grandkids of Spaniards. You can see this on the streets, in the social peace, especially when you compare it to other countries.
Everything changed when gov. decided that people's earnings would go to the banks first, then they would have to go to the bank to get what they earned. I knew the time that a boss would give you money every week or 2 weeks in your hands, it was a wonderfull feeling, and a feeling of freedom. Now they hunt you down if you have money not in a bank.
Is NZ like Australia in the sense that they are taking citizen's freedoms away? People always group the two countries together but New Zealand constantly ranks as the lowest tax anglosphere country and business friendly.
I have met many many Kiwis moving to Australia from New Zealand. Many cite high cost of living with lower wages for what you get in Aus. Freedoms; yeah covid was bad, but overall the same issues as every western english speaking country.
A lot of freedoms were taken away during the previous labour government (because of lockdowns etc.), but some of that has been reversed by the current government which is more supportive of businesses and lower taxes. Any apparent tax advantage over Australia is immediately cancelled out by lower wages and higher cost of living. I would know, because I left New Zealand like many of my peers.
With all due respect, the guest is not convincing wealthy individuals to consider Spain as a destination. The high taxes and prolonged processes are significant deterrents. Additionally, the guest fails to address the pressing safety concerns in Spain and Europe today, especially in comparison to places like Dubai or Singapore 🇸🇬. While Spain is undoubtedly a fantastic vacation spot and can be great for part-time living throughout the year, it is not the right choice for those who are still in the process of building their wealth. It simply may not be worth the investment.
@@Atreas1845 Wealth tax (solidarity tax), huge taxes if I or my partner dies, huge income tax... This is what the government offers me. Then a place like cyprus is much better.
This guy is trying so hard to downplay this issue. He says "if you have 1.5 million" and then right after "and if you have a spouse" then you get double allowance blabla. Sure but in this case my effective "wealth" is only 750k, not 1.5 million. Then he goes on "I always tell people you want to understand what your wealth tax is gonna be in advance" and then 60 sec later "I always say don't worry about the wealth tax until you have to worry about the wealth tax". Well, all in all this sounds like good advice. lol.
Multiple segments of this interview cover taxes in Spain. We also explain the Beckham law and surprising Spanish tax incentives in our Live Like a King in Madrid episode: th-cam.com/video/0Y9HskItx60/w-d-xo.html
I understand the point about the need for migration, and yes, it is the only realistic solution to keep the economy going. But the problem is in the failing fertility rate, and we don't address it, Migration is like cocaine, it makes the situation look better, but in the long we will need to pay the price.
Slash taxes and benefits at the same time. No wealth taxes. The reason social security is in trouble is that benefits are too high for what people put in. It must be fully funded, Not a Ponzi scheme like it is in most countries. Singapore proves the case against what majority of countries are doing. Bringing in more people might make the economy look good but it's fake. Australia is a classic example of this. Gdp per person is down for more than 7 quarters, living standards are falling rapidly. As for health, don't look at Misleading information from the government, look at the UN Hale report.
Thanks for exposing the “burrocracy” guys Im Spanish citizen and still cant get a spanish ID 👎Excellent comparison, we need to introduce the “European style in US and Canada” otherwise Nobody would like living in those SIM cities anymore. 🎉Enjoy and welcome
As I´ve told you in your channel, that´s not right. You can have the Spanish ID ( DNI in Spain ) without living here, but for sure you have to come here to pick it up. And if your Spanish DNI is written the place where you´re living. I´ve seeing many DNI´s with Spaniards like you. I mean Spaniards that never lived in Spain. For sure you can´t register ( empadronarse ) in Spain if you´re not living here. But you can have your Spanish DNI ( ID card ).
Spain is very attractive.. Its military alliance with Turkiye is a plus, Spains support for Palestine makes it shine in my eyes.. Maybe time to try living a year in Spain?
Yes, we had coffe kladhes snd tea decades, five, in north america and eould visit with the neighbours but it drpends on the area. Apartments now, no, lors of drugs, lack of ethics. Not cool.
Yes I can confirm the house sale before you leave will be subject to capital gains . I,m referring to Canada. This includes all capital gain including stocks. Essentially Canada wants to tax on any gains - deemed disposition.
You can defer the deemed disposition taxes and pay them later at sale if you give CRA a hostage though. ;) It's financially advantageous to do so if you can afford to let them hold onto something for a while (like your TFSA, or a long-term investment).
We moved from Mexico to Spain so much better and cheaper and safer to. The new government is very scary in Mexico now be careful things are changing in Mexico.
Pero de verdad que en España se pagan tantos impuestos? y en EEUU, no se pagan impuestos?....que cansados estamos de estos anglosajones siempre hablando sin saber...os teneis que preguntar que tienen en los EEUU y en Europa¡¡¡¡ por favor¡¡¡
Why would you move from New Zealand the most beautiful country in the world, rich and also one of the few where you’d be safe if nuclear Armageddon happened.
🇪🇸 Watch Live Like a King in Madrid to see how to live in luxury in Spain, while also taking advantage of business and investment opportunities, as well as surprising tax advantages and possibly a pathway to Spanish citizenship: th-cam.com/video/0Y9HskItx60/w-d-xo.html
Love your content
Thank you
Great timing for Spain. Been thinking about this for a while.
@@Jackson-e4k I have lived in 11 countries in Europe, and I decided to settle and work from Spain. All things considered, as far as I am concerned, Spain is the best place to live in Europe. Yes, you can get lower taxes, or better this or that in other countries, but if you factor in everything and include things like weather, food, lifestyle then Spain is where I would advice people to go. Business-wise there are better places, tax-wise too, but as said, and as they say in this video; you have to take the good with the bad.
@@tommyboman7735 what a life you’ve been living man. Where’s your second and third favorite country? I loved the NL but can’t handle the long winters.
I’m a Spaniard from Madrid living in Paris, I’m moving back to Mallorca very very soon. The life spam is about our good hearts and the “ social fluidity “ he mentioned.
Born and raised in Chicago. We just relocated to Madrid after traveling here every year for 10 years. Can’t imagine ever returning to the U.S.
You’ll be back in less than 4 years. Nowhere on Earth can compare to the USA besides possibly Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Ireland
Te entiendo, EEUU es un país tercermundista¡¡¡
@@chinglee100 Si es cierto no se puede comparar....en Europa vamos a la escuela y al médico gratis, y no somos racistas, y tenemos buena alimentación y no nos inventamos la historia como en EEUU...madre mía cuanta ignorancia¡¡¡¡
EEUU es incultor@@chinglee100
@@chinglee100 Dude USA is the worst first world country to live in, and they are considered first world country just because of the money, in every other aspect of a country they are closer to Africa than to Europe.
All eyes 👀 are in Spain now, I know some of the reasons, not as entrepreneur, but as an immigrant (thankfully I have citizenship, I was born in Brasil to Spanish parents who naturalized me Spanish citizen since I was born) I know people are looking for: Lifestyle, decent healthcare, good quality free education, openness to get documentation, job opportunities, security, good weather and Spain offers it all (lots of the same reasons why immigrants are leaving Canada) I’ve lived in Brazil, where I was born, USA, Canada and now Spain, I would have SO much to share why Spain is the best of all and all the reasons why, can’t make it fit to a TH-cam comment.
I'm interested in retiring in Europe. I currently live in the North Eastern United States, and am interest in Spain or Portugal. I was born in Havana, Cuba and my paternal grandparents were born in Asturias, Spain. Also, my wife was born in Portugal. Based on your travel experiences, do you recommend I secure a Portuguese citizenship through my marriage, or a Spanish citizenship based on my grandparents birth legacy?
I’m curious to know about the exponential increase in crime in Madrid and energy prices?
@@SamaSama-o2i exponential increase in crime in Madrid?? Where did you take that from? Madrid is still one of the safest cities in Europe...
@@e.o.9094 ok, I am glad I am not the only one asking that question… 😅
@@SamaSama-o2i oh yeah, lots of crime, horrible prices, don’t even think about moving to Madrid, it’s horrible… spread that, please!
Probably my favorite conversation in this series to date between two of my favorite TH-camrs.
I’d have said James probably places more emphasis on “lifestyle” elements - especially food - while Andrew is more about business and tax-optimization. The good thing about this conversation is that it shows that both of them actually
have a deep and rounded understanding of the relocation experience - James has a hard-headed practical side, and Andrew has a soulful culture-vulture lurking beneath his entrepreneurial exterior!
Lol@ vulture lurking beneath 😅😅😅
I honestly think Spain is very underrated for what it has to offer to us people who want to become a citizen and contribute to the Spanish economy and be a part of country. This video has been quite informative, thank you.
Thank you for the compliment! In addition to showcasing luxury living in Spain, in our Live Like a King in Madrid episode we discuss a common pathway to Spanish citizenship: th-cam.com/video/0Y9HskItx60/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared&t=190
Maybe it was underrated, not anymore, IMO! Spain is still welcoming immigrants, lots of people are arriving and there is the good and not so good part of it! Countries open up for immigrants, because they have more jobs than people, but they forget to prepare the country for the massive arrival. Many locals don’t like it, specially the ones working for public sector, they also don’t prepare their public services to receive that much people, (health care, schools) housing…so it is nice that the country is open for immigration and willing to provide documentation to all, but lots of problems came with it and it can result in loosing lots of people at the same time.
@vanpak We don't have more jobs than people, that's the problem. We don't take in immigrants because we need workers, we take them in for political reasons, as not doing it is considered racist. We have MASSIVE and uncontrolled immigration, especially from Latin America, and we don't need more.
We don't need you to come and "contribute" to the Spanish economy. Less of all become a citizen.
Excellent interview. I can vouch for most of the things that James mentioned. I was born in 1953 in Germany. At age six my German mother married an officer in the US Army who was from Puerto Rico. I grew up on the island until I left for the US mainland in late 1979. Growing up in PR in the 60’s and early 70’s was very similar to living in Spain. PR as a former colony of Spain, had retained its Spanish culture. Spanish culture was much more prevalent in PR until the mid 70’s. I grew up loving Spanish food, loving the Spanish influence on PR cuisine, the many Spanish restaurants and bakeries (panaderías),the constant visit of Spanish musicians, Spanish literature and Spanish movies. Today PR has become more of a mirror of the US than Spain, and I abhor this. As a child and young man growing up with Spanish influence, I came to miss it after I moved to the US. James mentioned the Madrid influence and I agree. I had acquaintances that came from Spain, and I was always told that Madrid was the place to be. Despite the new popularity of the costal cities and Barcelona, Madrid was always the major influencer. I have travelled to both Madrid and Barcelona and I prefer Madrid. I first travelled to Barcelona one month before the 1992 Olympics, and enjoyed the atmosphere, but there was always something that separated the Catalans from Madrid. For me, Madrid was the place to be in Spain. I am retired now and live in Colombia with my Colombian wife, but I am still hopeful to one day live in Madrid. As someone who has lived in NY City and Miami, who has travelled the world, there are two great cities for me, Buenos Aires and Madrid. I am happy to listen to James and know that what I always knew about Madrid is still so.
oh my God, I never anticipated this collaboration. Excellent stuff. 🎉
Thank you. We're glad you enjoyed it!
Great to see James and his wealth of information on living in Spain
exMichigan immigrant in Spain for 24 years now 🇪🇸🇪🇺🍷👍
Thanks for the Madrid Series Andrew. Shout out form Bucaramanga!
Great topics covered! While vacationing in Lisbon I noticed numerous protests concerning the cost of renting has greatly increased due to tourism. There is a cost, two parties oppositely affected interesting for sure.
Spaniards got to be buggin on all this focus on Spain. People been there for hundreds of years and suddenly folks from Chicago and Los Angeles start flocking there, and with zero language skills....what a bore.
It's horrible.
Thousands of years.
These two are a great combination.....great interview
Thank you
James speaks for me . I'm his loyal followers since Covid19 . Andrew is for super rich folks . 😂
Spain always has been a country of immigrants (I am one of them) specially to Northern Europe and the Americas but never anybody in Spain thought that we will have 94 million tourists this year, more than 600,000 legal and illegal newcomers and the incredible changes that this invasion is producing to the country. For any government will be hard to keep up with and specially adjust to the growing pains. I live in California and for many Americans Spain and Southern Europe is becoming "The place to be".
Europe has always been a continent of migrants. The English have emigrated more than anyone else-you can find them in almost every corner of the world. Wars and famine made life tough.
Not only Spain, all european countries have been countries of inmigranrs. Also in Spain we have 10 millions of inmigrants, not only 600.000. We are packed and we have massive uncontrolled inmigration.
Europe cannot compete with Northern American prices. Sadly californians are going to make prices rocket in Spain which was an affordable country 😭
@@jiaheung4628 Exactly. As Spaniard I want my goverment to put hight taxes to Americans moving to my country.
Great interview, I have been watching James for years, he started me on the path of moving to Spain (soon).
James is great
Take these TH-cam videos with a big grain of salt. Both of these guys have something to sell so they're not going to tell you the full truth. Which is: Spain has the highest youth unemployment rate in Europes at over 30% and also the highest overall unemployment rate in Europe. Average wages have been stagnating - or in many cases even declining for years. The average full time salary is a bit less than $23,000 per year but about 60% of the population earn around $17,000. Housing prices in the big cities have increased astronomically. If you plan on coming here plan on paying a lot for rent and even more for a mortgage - even outside of Madrid / Barcelona etc ... Further, come here with A LOT of money, a fat pension and a job from abroad because if you plan on working here you'll be crying. Spain's wages are working conditions are third world while it's cost of living doesn't match. The number of people I've met that didn't do their due diligence and got caught out on cost of living, unscrupulous landlords, red-tape not to mention the social costs of living abroad is shocking.
As retirees, one of our concerns is the inheritance tax. Our main assets would be overseas, not in Spain.
Work to LIVE not Live to work!
Love España
No offense to spainards but having visited it just seems like Spanish government propaganda, a war which they are apparently winning. The taxes are insanely high, pay for all jobs is dismal, and yet costs are very high because of the strangling taxes. Yes I would hate to work in Spain too.
Healthcare in Spain is excellent IF you have private. You have to pay a couple of hundreds of euro's per month for 100% full coverage. The public transport system is pretty good and the bullet trains are very comfortable - better than flying if domestically.
The climate is excellent along the coasts, the people are great, the food and wine amazing, the crime rate is low compared to most of Europe, and you have shill easy going lifestyle. That is why I live in Spain. in Europe I would say Spain is #1 place to be, and I have lived in 11 countries in Europe so trust me on that.
Although I love Madrid I don't think I would like to live there. I live in the south, in Marbella, which is perfect and only a couple of hours away from Madrid if you want a weekend. I would even go as far as to say that South of Spain (Marbella) is top 5 best places in the entire world to live, all things considered.
There are issues. Bureaucracy is kinda horrible, taxes are a bit too high, and its part of Europe which is not a good thing in the mid- to long run. But if someone is looking to buy property and have shill lovely home with easy going perfect lifestyle - move to where I am. It does not get better. Big tip to Americans especially.
Public health service in Spain,no medical debt or need medical insurance... No problems for me 👍👍
Being part of Europe is actually a good part of the reasons why Spain is so great.
@@Michaelcj-m2d You can only access the public health system if you have worked and paid taxes. Do you think they are going to regulate it for nothing?
@@e.o.9094 Being part of the EU has been decently beneficial for Spain yes, but not in the past few years and going forward being part of EU(SSR) is the same as a death sentence. Spain, as all other countries, would do best to leave the Euro and leave the EU(SSR).
Like this format of interview. Pls do more in different countries. Thanks
Thank you for your comment! We're glad you like the format.
No mention of Modelo 720, the obligation to make a declaration of assets over €50,000 held outside Spain. This is highly invasive!
We Spaniards have paid enormous taxes since we started working. In my case since I was 17 years old. Now that I make a salary that is considered good in Spain, I pay more than 50% in taxes. Any foreigner who wants to come to live is welcome, but they must pay taxes on all their belongings like any Spaniard. It is easy to come to live in Spain, but let the Spaniards with their taxes be the ones to maintain the Free highways, Fast Trains, universities, schools and hospitals that you like to use so much. If you have residence here, and money in the USA, you must pay taxes at the level here. Otherwise, stay in the USA.
Great chat. Thank you. Love you both.
Thank you. We’re glad you enjoyed it!
Haha, so fun to see James so sharpen out on this interview, so different from when he speaks about food on his videos 😁
Barcelona's massive problems began after far-leftist Ada Colau assumed office as Mayor in 2015. Following her tenure, crime surged and ran rampant, rent prices skyrocketed despite her housing activism, the city's infrastructure faced growing strain, traffic congestion worsened due to controversial urban mobility policies, and the once-thriving tourism sector struggled under heavy-handed restrictions and anti-tourist sentiment, alienating both visitors and local businesses
Yep. Barcelona is awful in that regard. All sorts of robberies. It’s a shame the network effect of rich people and stuff to do grew so much there
Socialism.. Always the same
Exactly, after living in Barcelona for nearly 5 years I relocated to SE Asia earlier this year and the lifestyle improvement is night and day. Very surprised to hear Andrew talking about Spain so positively. Beginning to think the problems I'd been facing are localized to Barcelona and the rest of Catalunya. Curious about other people's opinions on this ...
Barcelona has two major problems, illegal immigration and mass tourists. Both have driven out the real population. People like these gentlemen, the way they talk, the comments,It will only contribute to expelling the remaining citizens and destroying the way of life that they neither know nor are interested in. They only want to go to a country that they perceive as cheap, easy and economically supported.
@@petrpenicka1134 It's a mystery to me to. Spain's problems are myriad - most serious being its "demographic winter." One of the longest life expectancies in the world couple with extremely low birth rates don't bode well for future tax burdens. Spain's coffers are empty now and it'll be increasingly desperate for revenue. That means they're coming for you.
The best strategy for me is to work in a higher paying economy in Europe in a flexible job for 2 weeks a month, earn the money there and live in Spain and do nothing for 2 weeks. I have been doing this for 8 years and it‘s great. Wages are too low in Spain, so if you work there, you will habe little time to enjoy the country!
What job do you do to be able to do that? Seems like an excellent way to live 👍
@ there are plenty of jobs like that if you are experienced, working in a specialised field and have a higher degree. I have worked towards being independent like this for decades. Or you need a well-running business and find people that you can trust to run it for you when you are away. That will take you about a decade to set up as well.
Wow, TH-cam channel mashup. Thanks for the interview
You're welcome!
The problem with Spain is that the government taxes your American social security income at a high rate…
Theres a treaty with the USA if your paying taxes on it Spain won't tax it,and reverse. For no double taxation.
I looked at Spain's tax laws and found them prohibitive in numerous ways. US citizen.
I love the Spain James is talking about but I live in the real Spain, I´m never late, I weak up really early in the morning, work long long long hours and the salary is not great. I´ve lived in Switzerland , the UK and the USA. In all those countries I´ve been an immigrant, first studying there and after finishing studying working hard, but in all of those countries I´ve worked much less than in Spain and earnt much more. I love Spain but it´s not the fairy tale country James is talking about, it´s a great country with real hard working people.
But I apreciate James because he´s trying so hard that Spain gets lots of people by selling a dream country. Thanks a lot James, I really like your dream country, even I live in the other side with real hard working people, not coming late and being just nice people.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
When your life identity is what you work on then they have you trapped. Spain allows you to have a life and not just a 'career'. From a former New Yorker living in Madrid.
Hey Andrew, more people are gonna start moving to Spain for the lifestyle and charm!🎉😊
Best places to live have excellent health care…Spains health care is bad news . Public hospitals give much better care than private clinics in Spain
Sure if you have money
I was recently an emergency admission to a public hospital in Spain. I was unconscious, in a coma, so identifying me was difficult for the hospital. The medical treatment, general professionalism, friendliness and courtesy was absolutely superb.
The private healthcare system is Spain is top in Europe. Outside of a couple of Eastern European countries Spain is number one. Far ahead of horrible places such as Sweden, France and NL. The public hospitals in Spain are not very good. Average European at best, but with very slow service. Even at ER you can be waiting for hours.
@ my husbands life was saved by Drs in a public hospital in Spain and nearly killed by the stupidity and lack of care in 2 private hospitals prior.He had to wait, yes you’re correct 👍, but the treatment for a simple ailment that turned deadly was on point.
@lauraleemartinovich9853 it was very much similar for me, and my blessings to you and your husband.
The Spanish government monitors people’s bank accounts, I was told that if an unspecified deposit is made, the authorities may want to check the account, and there is a gift tax if applicable. Buying or selling over €1000 must be reported to the authorities, so buying a car or big ticket item over € 1000 can not pay in cash , must use a bank draft I assume. It’s very financially intrusive environment for residents.
Not sure about that, I cannot find it confirmed for Spain -- but within the EU(SSR) the rule is €10,000. Anything above that needs to be reported, investigated and checked. This rule applies to ALL EU countries. I alway send €9,666 or €9696 just for fun...
@ l know Spain is fairly aggressive with their tax enforcement, but it may be different in other areas of Spain, I heard Madrid was the friendliest of the regions. There is gift tax , inheritance tax and wealth taxes in Spain from my understanding.
Europe is suffering a crisis that it will continue worsening. Burocracy, taxes, price of energy (due to the Ucranian war) inflation (people are getting poorer) , immigration, New Zealand is a much better place to live.
James and jolly are legends , watched every video .
😎😎😎😎👌👌👌🎄🎄🎄☘️☘️☘️🍀🍀☘️🍀
And Stuart from Spain speaks .
🍀🍀🍀🤘🍀🤘🍀🤘👌😎😎
Nice co lab!!
Thank you
they sent me $2000 worth of speeding ticket fines after I got home last year. How long till those are cleared? Or should I just avoid Spain indefinitely?
Media hora hablando, sin meter mano a la ración de jamón 🤯
Que fuerte ....😂
Does the rain in spain fall mainly on the plane?
If you centre your life around minimising taxes Spain will NEVER be a viable country to settle in. Period. But the real question is, does centring your life around avoiding taxes is life’s end game? One of the guys here thinks it is, the other, not so much
Yep. Precisely so. If you’re happy to trade off tax for lifestyle - Spain is your place.
I think it’s not worth it if you are a foreigner. There are many other places where you can fit in and pay lower.
If you for some reason have a particular love about the Spanish culture and language, then sure go for it. Similar to how one may be in love with Italian culture.
But let’s be real. These are some of the worst countries in the world tax wise
And you don’t need to be a genius to figure out it’ll get worse. Look at their debt to gdp, look at their economy, and most importantly look at the trajectory of both. I rest my case.
Happy medium - finding the balance is where the flex is. Never a perfect location.
@@stanisgmi So right. Spain's pension system is already essentially broke. High life expectancy and an extremely low birth rate means you'll be taxed up the yazoo - especially in the Socialists stay in power.
Este norteamericano es un clasista, valora a las personas por la ropa cara , el dinero que se tiene en el banco, los metros ² de vivienda y los coches de marca en el garaje. 😂😂🤨 que desagradable me resulta. Soy española y no estoy acostumbrada a esta forma de pensar.
Verdad .
Por qué crees que hay tanta gente de Estados Unidos que se está mudando a España? Porque están hartos de esa mentalidad. Vienen estresados, la mayoría por cierto con problemas gastrointestinales que poco después de estar en España se les quita. No se puede vivir para trabajar como un esclavo para simplemente comprar cosas. Eres lo que eres capaz de comprarte. Son incapaces de disfrutar de la vida, porque ni siquiera se les cruza por la cabeza esa opción. Y la familia? Pues como mucho cuando tienen un hijo para presentárselo. Vacaciones? Un animal mitológico. Son tan pobres que solo tienen dinero.
I agree...James is more realistic and relatable.
Los estadounidenses son así de superficiales.
Spain 🇪🇸 France 🇫🇷 or Switzerland 🇨🇭 are the only EU 🇪🇺 counties I would consider living in, even then only in certain parts. The EU as whole is following the same troubling ⚠️ trajectory as the USA 🇺🇸
Technically 🇨🇭 is not 🇪🇺 but it’s included in the Economic Bloc.
Yes, Socialism.
The difference is that Spain mixed with Latin America, while the Anglo-Saxons and the French didn't. Now, immigration in England or France is a big issue. Their cultures are really different. In Spain, most of the immigration comes from Latin America, and many are the kids or grandkids of Spaniards. You can see this on the streets, in the social peace, especially when you compare it to other countries.
@@Atreas1845Lol 🤣🤣 Latinamerican inmigration is the worse and we couldn't hate it more.
I ❤ Shared Values Visa!
If you think that bureaucracy is bad in Spain, then please don't go to Germany or other EU countries.
Everything changed when gov. decided that people's earnings would go to the banks first, then they would have to go to the bank to get what they earned. I knew the time that a boss would give you money every week or 2 weeks in your hands, it was a wonderfull feeling, and a feeling of freedom. Now they hunt you down if you have money not in a bank.
New Zealand 🇳🇿 is ridiculously expensive . The wages are also very low with a tight Labour market for good jobs . Be warned .
Which is why so many high earners leave for the UK and Australia.
Is NZ like Australia in the sense that they are taking citizen's freedoms away? People always group the two countries together but New Zealand constantly ranks as the lowest tax anglosphere country and business friendly.
I have met many many Kiwis moving to Australia from New Zealand. Many cite high cost of living with lower wages for what you get in Aus. Freedoms; yeah covid was bad, but overall the same issues as every western english speaking country.
Lower taxes = Less government services
Easier to start a business = More competition
A lot of freedoms were taken away during the previous labour government (because of lockdowns etc.), but some of that has been reversed by the current government which is more supportive of businesses and lower taxes.
Any apparent tax advantage over Australia is immediately cancelled out by lower wages and higher cost of living. I would know, because I left New Zealand like many of my peers.
Yes just bought a house there ❤
With all due respect, the guest is not convincing wealthy individuals to consider Spain as a destination. The high taxes and prolonged processes are significant deterrents. Additionally, the guest fails to address the pressing safety concerns in Spain and Europe today, especially in comparison to places like Dubai or Singapore 🇸🇬.
While Spain is undoubtedly a fantastic vacation spot and can be great for part-time living throughout the year, it is not the right choice for those who are still in the process of building their wealth. It simply may not be worth the investment.
0% crypto tax is enough.
We have a holiday apartment in spain, we wil move to another country but we will not move to spain because it is a terrible high tax country.
You should compare the taxes with what the government offers you. It is very difficult to calculate this if you live outside the country.
@@Atreas1845 Wealth tax (solidarity tax), huge taxes if I or my partner dies, huge income tax... This is what the government offers me. Then a place like cyprus is much better.
the "EPIC Spanish Lifestyle" includes a wealth tax in many regions.
We address the wealth tax here: 27:02
It’s everywhere the wealth tax, not some regions. They’re gonna make it federal im absolutely sure
@@nomadcapitalist They're closing that loophole soon. They're gonna enforce it nationwide
This guy is trying so hard to downplay this issue. He says "if you have 1.5 million" and then right after "and if you have a spouse" then you get double allowance blabla. Sure but in this case my effective "wealth" is only 750k, not 1.5 million. Then he goes on "I always tell people you want to understand what your wealth tax is gonna be in advance" and then 60 sec later "I always say don't worry about the wealth tax until you have to worry about the wealth tax". Well, all in all this sounds like good advice. lol.
taxes tho 😬
Multiple segments of this interview cover taxes in Spain. We also explain the Beckham law and surprising Spanish tax incentives in our Live Like a King in Madrid episode: th-cam.com/video/0Y9HskItx60/w-d-xo.html
I hate that Iberico ham. Full of fat and salt. Olives are good. The whole of Andulasia is olive fields.
You can't say that about IBERICO ham, you don't have a palate or intelligence, hahaha
We are full go back
Andrew , when are you going to make a video on Prague /Czech Republic?
I understand the point about the need for migration, and yes, it is the only realistic solution to keep the economy going.
But the problem is in the failing fertility rate, and we don't address it, Migration is like cocaine, it makes the situation look better, but in the long we will need to pay the price.
5 years in canarias, people are rude, loud, uncivilized…
Sounds wonderful 🎉
Lol 😂 😆
Canaries is like a village. Head to Bilbao, Segovia or Madrid for sophisticated Spaniards ❤️
Jorge, a quién te refieres? Si en Canarias ya hay de todo menos canarios.
There are no spaniards living in the Canary Islands.
Slash taxes and benefits at the same time. No wealth taxes. The reason social security is in trouble is that benefits are too high for what people put in. It must be fully funded, Not a Ponzi scheme like it is in most countries. Singapore proves the case against what majority of countries are doing. Bringing in more people might make the economy look good but it's fake. Australia is a classic example of this. Gdp per person is down for more than 7 quarters, living standards are falling rapidly. As for health, don't look at Misleading information from the government, look at the UN Hale report.
Spain: long life expectancy coupled with extremely low birth rates means ... higher taxes and / or decreased benefits.
Thanks for exposing the “burrocracy” guys Im Spanish citizen and still cant get a spanish ID 👎Excellent comparison, we need to introduce the “European style in US and Canada” otherwise Nobody would like living in those SIM cities anymore. 🎉Enjoy and welcome
As I´ve told you in your channel, that´s not right. You can have the Spanish ID ( DNI in Spain ) without living here, but for sure you have to come here to pick it up.
And if your Spanish DNI is written the place where you´re living. I´ve seeing many DNI´s with Spaniards like you. I mean Spaniards that never lived in Spain.
For sure you can´t register ( empadronarse ) in Spain if you´re not living here. But you can have your Spanish DNI ( ID card ).
Much love to Spain, the best EU country! I cant deny that i love Spain and Spanish people. 🇪🇸❤️🇹🇷
Make a video on Slovak Citizenship
Spain is very attractive.. Its military alliance with Turkiye is a plus, Spains support for Palestine makes it shine in my eyes.. Maybe time to try living a year in Spain?
Spain does not support Palestine. You can save yourself the year.
@susanaescriba977 yes it does, just like Norway, we are pleased with them both 👍🏼
@@ZionistWorldOrder Soy española y te digo que no. Ni idea teneis.
@susanaescriba977 i think spanish elections and government actions speaks for itself in this regard.
@@ZionistWorldOrder Find out more about what the Spanish population thinks about Pedro Sánchez's government.
Sun mattress. 😁
The American does not understand tax structure. 90% does not mean 90% of total salary.
It’s not that great! I grew up in the Canary’s
So Spain is not part of the West?
Notice most of the comments are women saying its great 😂😂😂😂 Spain is a highly feminist country. Gentlemen, you've been warned. I'd stay away. 🤷♂️
New Zealand's a 'global village,' but Spain feels like a global fiesta. Would you swap efficiency for siestas?
This guy is a bit woke, to be honest.
Enlightment...
Who?
Define woke?
PaulCraigRoberts:Is Reality Gaining a Foothold on Putin’s Thinking?
Good video, but I don't think you touched base on speaking the language.
Yes, we had coffe kladhes snd tea decades, five, in north america and eould visit with the neighbours but it drpends on the area. Apartments now, no, lors of drugs, lack of ethics. Not cool.
No, Madrid is not the BEST in Spain, not the BEST olives, certanly not good wines hahaha
I wished that I could...😅...
Yes I can confirm the house sale before you leave will be subject to capital gains . I,m referring to Canada. This includes all capital gain including stocks. Essentially Canada wants to tax on any gains - deemed disposition.
You can defer the deemed disposition taxes and pay them later at sale if you give CRA a hostage though. ;) It's financially advantageous to do so if you can afford to let them hold onto something for a while (like your TFSA, or a long-term investment).
Spain is done
Spain……buhahahahaha
Está usted bien ?
Esta jodido debe ser inglés España le ganó la copa de Europa en fútbol y el mundial femenino hahahaha 🤣🤣🤣
We moved from Mexico to Spain so much better and cheaper and safer to. The new government is very scary in Mexico now be careful things are changing in Mexico.
We Own a Villa in Hvar, Croatia…
Tell Me About Croatia!!!
Pero de verdad que en España se pagan tantos impuestos? y en EEUU, no se pagan impuestos?....que cansados estamos de estos anglosajones siempre hablando sin saber...os teneis que preguntar que tienen en los EEUU y en Europa¡¡¡¡ por favor¡¡¡
Eska guirificacion...😅
"Es la"
Why would you move from New Zealand the most beautiful country in the world, rich and also one of the few where you’d be safe if nuclear Armageddon happened.
Go there and find out.
Well it is entering into a second recession and look at the parliamentary debate and behaviour!
If nuclear armageddon comes - I hope I'm at the epicenter.