Congratulation! We moved to Tenerife in 1999 and bought a house. The goal was to learn the language and integrate 100%. After 10 years we were allowed to apply for citizens. I did all the paperwork myself. After ten years we had to renew the DNI card. It took 10 minutes and it lwill last until 1.1.9999. We love Spain!
I lived in Spain last year in a small town and worked at the Elementary school, so things were much easier for me, as the principal and the main teacher I worked with pretty much did everything for me. Regarding the phone, I have an iPhone 11 and before I left for Spain, I had T-Mobile take out my sim card and program a virtual sim card, freeing up the slot for the sim card and when I got to Spain, got a sim card from DIGI, so I only had to have one phone.
I have never heard of that, nobody offered that as a solution, in regards to the sim card. I am an android user, maybe that is why I had more troubles. Thanks for sharing.
Excellent information. I really appreciate how you methodically covered every important item and specified exactly what was needed for each (it seemed like you were previously in the military). It was also helpful how you gave an idea of what needed to be obtained previously in order to get the next item and the tips were great too. Having never been to Spain myself and not knowing the language, what I found on the internet previously seemed daunting and confusing. Thank you so much for precisely clarifying it all.
Excellent detailed information, appreciated 👍. Looking forward to your channel growing and becoming a 'go-to' for many folks interested in moving to Spain
Been to Fuengirola so many times, love it there! Keep up the good work man & maybe we'll bump into you someday on the Costa! From cold & dark Ireland! ☘💪🏽👀👍🏽☘
Listening to the end of the video my mind kept wondering away thinking of ways of making easier part of that stuff. 1 Internet in the phone: You could get first a prepaid card that you can recharge when you finish your data. As an example, Simyo offers 40gb for 11€ and 100gb for 17€. I think you can recharge it in kiosks and supermarkets. 2 Home Internet: I have a coworker that spent the whole pandemic in his village working from home creating a hotspot with the phone and using the 4g internet. So the first weeks I would just share the phone's Internet. 3 phone calls: In Spain everybody has WhatsApp in their phone, so with your agent/lawer/gestor, just ask for their cell number and call them using WhatsApp, it uses almost any data and quality it's actually better that the regular cell line. So you could use your foreign number for a while if you have data roaming. 4 phone: If your phone has dual SIM just insert the Spanish one and use both in the same phone.
I am a Canadian in Fuengirola since October 2022. When you need to call long distance, like in Canada, you can go to a "Locutorio" and call for a very cheap price. They can also print or copy your documents. I would like to know how much your lawyer cost to get your "Empadronamiento" and all the paper work prepared? Thank you and great work!
@@sylviemorissette7668 it was 750 for everything, visa, padron, t.i.e. Thanks for the tip about the phone. Last call I placed was 18 euros on my Spanish cell
Great summary. One quick tip I like to share. We relocated to Costa Blanca in October 2022 and we learned that the more recent versions of iPhone can actually handle two phone numbers. (Not sure about Android). So we could keep our US phone and contract and establish a Spanish number, on-demand contract, and what's called a "virtual SIM card" on the same phone. We have now used it for a few months and it works great. When calling anywhere in North America we use the US number and when in Europe the Spanish number. The only thing is that one needs to switch them on and off (at least we do) to make sure that no roaming charges are incurred. It's important to know that the US number is used together with the wifi in the house, so no roaming happens. It's basically VOIP but with a traditional carrier. I am posting this for anybody (I am one of those people) who hates to have to run around with more than one phone (I did that for years when my employer wanted me to have a phone but not allow me to use my personal phone). I hope this helps and I am sure that can also be used when someone comes on vacation to Spain. There is no long term contract needed.
Thanks, this is great information. I have not heard of this being an option on android. I am heading to the Costa Blanca in Feb to check out the area. So many people have told me it is one of the best places to live, I have to see it for myself. I might just relocate from the Costa del Sol.
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel My iPhone 14 Pro no longer uses physical SIM cards. They are now all digital "eSIMs". I bounce back and forth between the USA and Mexico and have a Mexican number and a USA number both installed on the same phone. Both lines are active at all times. And if I'm not mistaken, these newer cell phones can manage up to 8 different eSIMs. These newer phones make globetrotting much easier! Enjoy your videos! Congrats on the move to Spain. Would love to visit the area where you are.
Very informative video, thank you! You mentioned that TIE Appointment you need to do as you in Spain. It looks like some sort of challenge and time to book a TIE appointment within 30 days frame. Why you would not book an appointment in advance before even flying from Canada to Spain if were knowing the city you were going to live?:)
Thanks. My lawyers booked all my appointments for me. You have to have your padron from the townhall for the TIE appointment. Unless you have secured your property before arriving in Spain it would be hard to know the timeframe for appointments and exactly when you will sign the lease, etc. In some jurisdictions they go over the 30 days, as long as it's not your fault for being late you would be ok. If the townhall or police are backed up then you should not be penalized for going over the 30 days. I believe Malaga had a lot of backups when I moved over. My friend took almost 90 days to finish his process.
Agree, dual sim phone is the way to go. Just set the local phone as primary. Also means you can keep two whatsup running. Just use your overseas sim when in a Wi-Fi area.
Excellent tips; thanks for sharing and keep updating… My wife and I are going to retire to Spain around mid-2023. We’re in the process of securing a non-lucrative visa from the Spanish Consulate in Houston as we’re residing in Arkansas. I’m assuming that you also applied for and got a similar visa. If so, maybe you can share a few tips around that process and how it worked for you in Canada as well… Thanks a bunch! Mike
Thank you so much for the excellent information from a fellow Canadian (Vancouver)! We are transcribing all of the relevant bits for when we retire to Spain near the end of 2023 and very much appreciate your help with the bureaucracy. Two quick questions: how on earth were you able to bring 5 suitcases with you? Don't the airlines have a limit? We're hoping to do the same. Also, with a Non-lucrative visa, how long after it comes through before you can buy a home?
Thanks, glad it was helpful. The airlines don't have a limit, but you will have to pay. You can buy a home anytime in Spain, even without a visa. Good luck, hope everything goes smoothly
Sorry if I have missed this, is there anyway you could do one covering the medical care? Cost to see a DR, access to medication etc. Private appointments etc
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel Thanks, I'm sure it will be a big video but for me it's arguably one of the most important topics. I have some points if you could consider. 1. What happens when you get sick and who is the first point of call and what the process is? 2. How many GP practices are there? 3. Is there a cost to see the Dr? 4. Can i get access to the same medication I have in my own country? 5. What is the medical system like? 6. Is Private medical care available and what is the cost? This will be a fabulous video.
Hi I have stayed in Fuengirola a few times and its great for the Train Station and the Bus station and lots of restaurants I never had a problem with the Spanish language as most people there speak English more so in Marbella . But it 's good to know some basic Spanish Just be careful of who you meet up with there same everywhere Good Luck !
Thank u very much for all this informations u telling us . My Husband loves it very much and he wants to live there . He did visited three or four times . I just visited it two months ago for the first time with My Husband I like it . Thank u for sharing this informations and good luck with your life there and with your TH-cam channel 👍👍👍👍
I am going to touch on it, but I'm not really into financial stuff. I recommend checking out this TH-cam channel "Our Rich Journey". They are from the US and retired early in Portugal. They have great tips, I have been following them for awhile. They are probably the best resource for this kind of stuff.
I have enough Spanish to get by with most things, just not at the conversational level. It can be tough sometimes, but at banks, town halls etc the process is pretty straight forward. I usually come prepared, and when in doubt I use a translation app (I try not too, it's awkward).
hello...first of all, I am so happy for you and what a smart move!!! We,too,are planning on moving to Spaim..we are from Montreal and can't take the winters any longer:( My question is : is there a lovely neighborhood u can suggest for us to look for an apartment and what are the prices in rent???
Thanks, I am still looking for the right neighborhood (for purchase). I am in Los Boliches, but I am considering buying in Los Pacos or Las Lagunas. Maybe have a look at those. Rent varies, but 800-1200 euros and you can get a nice rental. In the center they will apartments, if you go a bit further out you can get a rowhouse/duplex within that range.
Thank you for this info! Question about the cell phone suggestion - what would you suggest in terms of keeping your Canadian number / phone and setting it on airplane mode, assuming you’d still need to pay for a monthly plan in addition to roaming?
Thanks. I would drop your plan down to the lowest monthly rate possible, and try to make sure your contract is over. Roaming at my carrier was paid only when activated, so keeping it in airplane mode until needed would keep the bill down. Once you get your bank account you can cancel your Canadian phone, because the Spanish carriers require a Spanish bank account to be on a phone contract. If you have the opportunity to come to Spain before moving you can setup a non-resident bank account, which would allow you to get a proper Spanish phone on arrival and avoid all of this. I wish I had known this as I was here 5 months before I moved over permanently. At the most it should only take 1-2 months to open your account, after that you can cancel the Canadian line. Hope that helps.
Thank you for your excellent video and all the valuable information! Is Fuengirola a “walkable” city? I have no interest in owning a vehicle. I’m Looking to move/retire in Spain and deciding where to settle. Like you, I loved Malaga. I have family in València but it’s a bit more expensive and I prefer smaller city close to the beaches. Appreciate your video!Saludos from Miami! 👏👏😎
Thank you. Yes Fuengirola is very walkable, transit is also free for residents. You will not need a vehicle in Fuengirola. Spain is an amazing place to retire. We are still hunting for our permanent home. We are going to try the Costa Blanca for a bit, we have heard lots of great things from Canadians and Americans about the area around Alicante.
Hello, how much was the lawyer/agent and can you help us find one or give us a referral to them? I’m moving from the USA and found your information very useful for us.
The best thing about living in Spain is the weather, food and how safe it is. I'm not sure about raising kids as mine are adults now. I would say any metropolitan area would be good with lots of amenities and schools. As for social life, any where along the Costa del Sol would be good. The cities are vibrant along the Costa del Sol, with lots of festivals, Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola etc. Also any of the major cities across Spain, Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid. too.
The majority of cafes and restaurants have wifi. None on public transit that I have seen yet, although they just rolled out brand new buses on 1 Jan and have not used them yet. Data is very cheap. I had a 100gb package for 20 euros when I first arrived, now I have an unlimited phone package.
Welcome! We are in Torre del Mar. Regarding phone, get a Lebara SIM to pop in when you want to call Canada. €10/100 GB unlimited Spanish calls and 500 minutes international .We have been here for over a year😀
Hi again, I just wrote you in the last video I watched. How do I get an Agent? Do they work with you for just securing an apartment to rent?will someone help me have my social security and survivor pension directly deposited into a Spanish bank? Since I’m coming alone (until I get a dog) I want to make sure my experience is relatively smooth. I know there will be bumps along the way. I’m kind of wanting to live near a grocery store etc to access by bus, train, taxi. I want to make friends and enjoy activities but I’m limited in income. I’m also kind of introverted but I love learning languages and about different cultures. And I’m friendly. Thank you!!
Hi, thank you. You will most likely live within walking to distance to a grocery store. There are plenty around, I had about 5 within a 10 minute walk of my place. Transit in Spain is easily accessible. Agents can be found by searching properties commonly using the website idealista. When you contact a property you will see the agency name. They can assist with the rental procedure. Lawyers can assist with anything else pretty much.
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel once again, thank you! What kind of lawyer do I hire? I live near Chicago IL. Do I hire a lawyer for a long time, before I leave and on until when I arrive(and beyond) ? Does a lawyer help with finding an apartment to rent? Sorry for all these questions, if you don't have time to answer them, I'm sure you will cover them in future videos. ☀️
@@carrieb9106 Hi the lawyer will assist you throughout the process for a flat fee. My lawyer was 750 euros, they help you with everything until you get your residency card. I used Just Law in Fuengirola, here is their link www.justlawsolicitors.com/team/
Generally rent in the center or port area will be 900-1200 euros for a 2-3 bedroom. In Los Boliches, where I am it is a bit cheaper 800-1000 for the same size.
Hi, yes here is a link to the lawyers I used, Just Law Solicitors. www.justlawsolicitors.com/ In regards to an agent, they only show properties they have listed. My best advice would be to check Idealista, find a property that you like and contact that agent. The agent and firm I used was Madel Homes, they have properties for sale and for rent. Good luck with your move.
Interesting how North Americans can simply move to Europe but if Europeans move to Canada/US, they need permanent residency or Greencard which is nearly impossible to get in today’s age.
Congratulations on your move and well organized approach. Using attorneys must have paid for itself in the peace of mind their services provided you. I’d follow in your footsteps ASAP if I could get my wife on board (figuratively and literally). We’re in a financial position to do it, we’re both U.S. born citizens who were raised on Spanish as a second language, but I’m more fed up with America society than she is, although she too detests the direction of this country under our senile, maleable, corrupted puppet of a president.
@@howard4510 because less than twenty percent of the people are conversational in English? It seems to me that you should at least have a basic knowledge of the language before you get there
Insurance is cheap. Health care some of the best in the world. Have a look on the internet. For phone calls back to the UK where my family are I use Skype. Best of luck try and keep warm. It's 9.40pm as I tap this out and it's still in the upper 20c. Sorry to rub it in but you chose the wrong place.
So much red tape and expensive to do this process. It is not that cheap either to live there. I don’t see what benefit people have. Better off visiting a few times a year and save thousands in fees and taxes.
Very interesting. I looked at moving to Spain many years ago from the UK, but decided to move to Thailand. And Buddha am I pleased I did. having seen the things you have to do to get a simple Bank acc or an internet connection or even a phone. Let alone the problems getting this and that to stay there. Added to that the weather during the winter no thank you. Is it any easier here in Thailand??? Well to get a bank acc: just walk into any bank with your passport oh and some cash and they will open one for you at once. A 1 year visa your local Immigration office (every town has them) show you have monies in a Thai bank in your name, 1 passport photo, 1 form that you get in the office. And they do it for you there, takes around 30 min: You don't even require to show any monies or go to the I/O if you use an agent. Internet everywhere is fiber optic up to 1000MPS. I have an AIS 350MPS set up that cost around 8/9 Euros a month. To get internet. Just go into an AIS shop with passport tell them your address and they do the rest, they normally fit it the next day. N/B you don't need a Bank acc: Phones. Again any phone shop they will sell you any phone you want. Cheap as chips here. Phones (All are open so they will take any world wild sim) Or a local one that will be fully compliant with all set ups. Price here are some 50% of what they are in Spain. My average spending is around 10k euros a year. I could go on. But last but not least the weather here it's the 25 Jan: 2023 today so winter time the temp: is around 33c + the usual blue skies we get at this time of year. As I am tapping this out all I'm wearing is a pair of cotton shorts no top. Maybe people should think twice as to where they retire to.
@@sunshinefl6586 Normally in the upper 30c about the same as Spain. We do have A/C for that, at least we don't require fires/heating during the winter. Saves on clothes as I don't even possess a jacket. It's shorts and short sleave tops all year. Oh Only going to be 31c today. With just the normal clear Blue skies.
@@fredob43 Every place has its bad points. Thailand is hot and humid all.of the time and when the rainy season arrives flooding takes place regularly. There are people only too willing to rip foreigners off since every single one is presumed to have bags of money. Pollution and lack of cleanliness in urban areas is another problem. Best to give people a balanced view.
Congratulation! We moved to Tenerife in 1999 and bought a house. The goal was to learn the language and integrate 100%. After 10 years we were allowed to apply for citizens. I did all the paperwork myself. After ten years we had to renew the DNI card. It took 10 minutes and it lwill last until 1.1.9999. We love Spain!
I heard it is a great place to live. I plan on visiting there some day.
I am back and forth between this video and the lawyer's video several time trying to learn as much as I can very good job indeed thanks👍👍👍
Thank you.
Thank you for this video. You gave me a lot to learn and do as I plan the move to Spain from the USA.
I'm glad it was helpful. Good luck with your move, it's a great place to live.
Thank you for all this information. I am moving with my wife to Costa del Sol this January and I found this video very helpful
Thanks, glad it was helpful! Good luck with the move.
I lived in Spain last year in a small town and worked at the Elementary school, so things were much easier for me, as the principal and the main teacher I worked with pretty much did everything for me. Regarding the phone, I have an iPhone 11 and before I left for Spain, I had T-Mobile take out my sim card and program a virtual sim card, freeing up the slot for the sim card and when I got to Spain, got a sim card from DIGI, so I only had to have one phone.
I have never heard of that, nobody offered that as a solution, in regards to the sim card. I am an android user, maybe that is why I had more troubles. Thanks for sharing.
Excellent information. I really appreciate how you methodically covered every important item and specified exactly what was needed for each (it seemed like you were previously in the military). It was also helpful how you gave an idea of what needed to be obtained previously in order to get the next item and the tips were great too. Having never been to Spain myself and not knowing the language, what I found on the internet previously seemed daunting and confusing. Thank you so much for precisely clarifying it all.
Thank you, I appreciate it. I was in the military earlier in life, I guess we never shake it. Good luck.
Excellent detailed information, appreciated 👍. Looking forward to your channel growing and becoming a 'go-to' for many folks interested in moving to Spain
Thanks so much!
Thank you again for your interview with Marisa Moreno Castillo at Just Law Solicitors.
Been to Fuengirola so many times, love it there! Keep up the good work man & maybe we'll bump into you someday on the Costa!
From cold & dark Ireland! ☘💪🏽👀👍🏽☘
Thank you very much! Hello from Dallas, Texas
Listening to the end of the video my mind kept wondering away thinking of ways of making easier part of that stuff.
1 Internet in the phone: You could get first a prepaid card that you can recharge when you finish your data. As an example, Simyo offers 40gb for 11€ and 100gb for 17€. I think you can recharge it in kiosks and supermarkets.
2 Home Internet: I have a coworker that spent the whole pandemic in his village working from home creating a hotspot with the phone and using the 4g internet. So the first weeks I would just share the phone's Internet.
3 phone calls: In Spain everybody has WhatsApp in their phone, so with your agent/lawer/gestor, just ask for their cell number and call them using WhatsApp, it uses almost any data and quality it's actually better that the regular cell line. So you could use your foreign number for a while if you have data roaming.
4 phone: If your phone has dual SIM just insert the Spanish one and use both in the same phone.
Very inspiring, looking forward to more videos about this great town, been there twice 😊
Thank you, it is a wonderful place to call home.
I am a Canadian in Fuengirola since October 2022. When you need to call long distance, like in Canada, you can go to a "Locutorio" and call for a very cheap price. They can also print or copy your documents. I would like to know how much your lawyer cost to get your "Empadronamiento" and all the paper work prepared? Thank you and great work!
@@sylviemorissette7668 it was 750 for everything, visa, padron, t.i.e. Thanks for the tip about the phone. Last call I placed was 18 euros on my Spanish cell
Great summary. One quick tip I like to share. We relocated to Costa Blanca in October 2022 and we learned that the more recent versions of iPhone can actually handle two phone numbers. (Not sure about Android). So we could keep our US phone and contract and establish a Spanish number, on-demand contract, and what's called a "virtual SIM card" on the same phone. We have now used it for a few months and it works great. When calling anywhere in North America we use the US number and when in Europe the Spanish number. The only thing is that one needs to switch them on and off (at least we do) to make sure that no roaming charges are incurred. It's important to know that the US number is used together with the wifi in the house, so no roaming happens. It's basically VOIP but with a traditional carrier. I am posting this for anybody (I am one of those people) who hates to have to run around with more than one phone (I did that for years when my employer wanted me to have a phone but not allow me to use my personal phone). I hope this helps and I am sure that can also be used when someone comes on vacation to Spain. There is no long term contract needed.
Thanks, this is great information. I have not heard of this being an option on android. I am heading to the Costa Blanca in Feb to check out the area. So many people have told me it is one of the best places to live, I have to see it for myself. I might just relocate from the Costa del Sol.
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel
The android supports two numbers as well,you just need the wright phone.
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel My iPhone 14 Pro no longer uses physical SIM cards. They are now all digital "eSIMs". I bounce back and forth between the USA and Mexico and have a Mexican number and a USA number both installed on the same phone. Both lines are active at all times. And if I'm not mistaken, these newer cell phones can manage up to 8 different eSIMs. These newer phones make globetrotting much easier! Enjoy your videos! Congrats on the move to Spain. Would love to visit the area where you are.
Very informative video, thank you! You mentioned that TIE Appointment you need to do as you in Spain. It looks like some sort of challenge and time to book a TIE appointment within 30 days frame. Why you would not book an appointment in advance before even flying from Canada to Spain if were knowing the city you were going to live?:)
Thanks. My lawyers booked all my appointments for me. You have to have your padron from the townhall for the TIE appointment. Unless you have secured your property before arriving in Spain it would be hard to know the timeframe for appointments and exactly when you will sign the lease, etc. In some jurisdictions they go over the 30 days, as long as it's not your fault for being late you would be ok. If the townhall or police are backed up then you should not be penalized for going over the 30 days. I believe Malaga had a lot of backups when I moved over. My friend took almost 90 days to finish his process.
Solid info
Excellent video. Thanks!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching
Agree, dual sim phone is the way to go. Just set the local phone as primary. Also means you can keep two whatsup running. Just use your overseas sim when in a Wi-Fi area.
Excellent tips; thanks for sharing and keep updating…
My wife and I are going to retire to Spain around mid-2023. We’re in the process of securing a non-lucrative visa from the Spanish Consulate in Houston as we’re residing in Arkansas. I’m assuming that you also applied for and got a similar visa. If so, maybe you can share a few tips around that process and how it worked for you in Canada as well…
Thanks a bunch!
Mike
Never mind; I watched your other video; and posted a question for you there… thanks again!
Thank you - very timely as we will be going through this process next year!
Excellent, good luck with your move.
Thank you so much for the excellent information from a fellow Canadian (Vancouver)! We are transcribing all of the relevant bits for when we retire to Spain near the end of 2023 and very much appreciate your help with the bureaucracy. Two quick questions: how on earth were you able to bring 5 suitcases with you? Don't the airlines have a limit? We're hoping to do the same. Also, with a Non-lucrative visa, how long after it comes through before you can buy a home?
Thanks, glad it was helpful. The airlines don't have a limit, but you will have to pay. You can buy a home anytime in Spain, even without a visa. Good luck, hope everything goes smoothly
Sorry if I have missed this, is there anyway you could do one covering the medical care? Cost to see a DR, access to medication etc. Private appointments etc
I am going to cover it in an upcoming video
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel Thanks, I'm sure it will be a big video but for me it's arguably one of the most important topics.
I have some points if you could consider.
1. What happens when you get sick and who is the first point of call and what the process is?
2. How many GP practices are there?
3. Is there a cost to see the Dr?
4. Can i get access to the same medication I have in my own country?
5. What is the medical system like?
6. Is Private medical care available and what is the cost?
This will be a fabulous video.
Hi another great video. What are you doing about healthcare? Thanks, John
Check out my newest video "Answering Your Questions", it's all in there.
Thank you, for the info
Hi I have stayed in Fuengirola a few times and its great for the Train Station and the Bus station and lots of restaurants I never had a problem with the Spanish language as most people there speak English more so in Marbella . But it 's good to know some basic Spanish Just be careful of who you meet up with there same everywhere Good Luck !
Thank u very much for all this informations u telling us . My Husband loves it very much and he wants to live there . He did visited three or four times . I just visited it two months ago for the first time with My Husband I like it . Thank u for sharing this informations and good luck with your life there and with your TH-cam channel 👍👍👍👍
Thank you, glad it was helpful. Good luck with the potential move!
Thank you for this good information
You're welcome, thanks for watching
What made you choose Spain?
There seems to be a lot of people coming over from the US and Canada.
There are a lot of people leaving North America and heading to Spain and Portugal. I chose Spain for the weather, safety and culture/history.
You can add an eSim to an iPhone for data.
Unfortunately I am on Android. But thanks for the tip
Can you do a video on how to live financially if you are not allowed to work? Cheers Alan
I am going to touch on it, but I'm not really into financial stuff. I recommend checking out this TH-cam channel "Our Rich Journey". They are from the US and retired early in Portugal. They have great tips, I have been following them for awhile. They are probably the best resource for this kind of stuff.
Greetings from Alhaurin de la Torre
Very informative thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Just found your channel and am very interested in spending time there. How do you deal with the language in everyday dealings?
I have enough Spanish to get by with most things, just not at the conversational level. It can be tough sometimes, but at banks, town halls etc the process is pretty straight forward. I usually come prepared, and when in doubt I use a translation app (I try not too, it's awkward).
hello...first of all, I am so happy for you and what a smart move!!! We,too,are planning on moving to Spaim..we are from Montreal and can't take the winters any longer:( My question is : is there a lovely neighborhood u can suggest for us to look for an apartment and what are the prices in rent???
Thanks, I am still looking for the right neighborhood (for purchase). I am in Los Boliches, but I am considering buying in Los Pacos or Las Lagunas. Maybe have a look at those. Rent varies, but 800-1200 euros and you can get a nice rental. In the center they will apartments, if you go a bit further out you can get a rowhouse/duplex within that range.
thank u
if I do have any other questions in the future, is it ok if I ask u in the comments??
send them here to my email. it's hard to keep up with youtube comments, they seem to get buried. emptymiddleseat@gmail.com
Thank you for this info! Question about the cell phone suggestion - what would you suggest in terms of keeping your Canadian number / phone and setting it on airplane mode, assuming you’d still need to pay for a monthly plan in addition to roaming?
Thanks. I would drop your plan down to the lowest monthly rate possible, and try to make sure your contract is over. Roaming at my carrier was paid only when activated, so keeping it in airplane mode until needed would keep the bill down. Once you get your bank account you can cancel your Canadian phone, because the Spanish carriers require a Spanish bank account to be on a phone contract. If you have the opportunity to come to Spain before moving you can setup a non-resident bank account, which would allow you to get a proper Spanish phone on arrival and avoid all of this. I wish I had known this as I was here 5 months before I moved over permanently. At the most it should only take 1-2 months to open your account, after that you can cancel the Canadian line. Hope that helps.
When in Spain check out the phone service called lobster very reasonable, in available in English great data as well
maybe you can use viber to communicate with your family, but they have to instal it too.
on wi- fi you can use it for free
Thanks for the tip
Thank you for your excellent video and all the valuable information! Is Fuengirola a “walkable” city? I have no interest in owning a vehicle. I’m Looking to move/retire in Spain and deciding where to settle. Like you, I loved Malaga. I have family in València but it’s a bit more expensive and I prefer smaller city close to the beaches. Appreciate your video!Saludos from Miami! 👏👏😎
Thank you. Yes Fuengirola is very walkable, transit is also free for residents. You will not need a vehicle in Fuengirola. Spain is an amazing place to retire. We are still hunting for our permanent home. We are going to try the Costa Blanca for a bit, we have heard lots of great things from Canadians and Americans about the area around Alicante.
Please can you do a video on Spanish health insurance thank you
Yes I can do that. What are you looking to find out?
The cost of health insurance for hospitals and and doctors here in the UK we have the NHS which is free
@@danielmorgan6028 it varies based on age and other factors, but I pay about 600 euros a year. I use ASSSA, they have an office here in Fuengirola.
Great video
I always thought you need a spanish adress first before you can open a bank account?
You can open a non-resident account with your passport. That may differ from bank to bank though.
Well done again… 👍
Hello, how much was the lawyer/agent and can you help us find one or give us a referral to them? I’m moving from the USA and found your information very useful for us.
Thank you. I used Just Law in Fuengirola, for the NLV it will cost you around 750 euros here is their webpage www.justlawsolicitors.com/team/
What’s the best thing about living in Spain? Which area would be best for raising a family and enjoying a social life? Thanks!!
The best thing about living in Spain is the weather, food and how safe it is. I'm not sure about raising kids as mine are adults now. I would say any metropolitan area would be good with lots of amenities and schools. As for social life, any where along the Costa del Sol would be good. The cities are vibrant along the Costa del Sol, with lots of festivals, Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola etc. Also any of the major cities across Spain, Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid. too.
What's the WiFi coverage like in cafes, ? public transport ?
The majority of cafes and restaurants have wifi. None on public transit that I have seen yet, although they just rolled out brand new buses on 1 Jan and have not used them yet. Data is very cheap. I had a 100gb package for 20 euros when I first arrived, now I have an unlimited phone package.
Welcome! We are in Torre del Mar. Regarding phone, get a Lebara SIM to pop in when you want to call Canada. €10/100 GB unlimited Spanish calls and 500 minutes international .We have been here for over a year😀
When you say "agent", do you mean the estate agent? (realtor) thanks
Hi again, I just wrote you in the last video I watched. How do I get an Agent? Do they work with you for just securing an apartment to rent?will someone help me have my social security and survivor pension directly deposited into a Spanish bank? Since I’m coming alone (until I get a dog) I want to make sure my experience is relatively smooth. I know there will be bumps along the way. I’m kind of wanting to live near a grocery store etc to access by bus, train, taxi. I want to make friends and enjoy activities but I’m limited in income. I’m also kind of introverted but I love learning languages and about different cultures. And I’m friendly. Thank you!!
Hi, thank you. You will most likely live within walking to distance to a grocery store. There are plenty around, I had about 5 within a 10 minute walk of my place. Transit in Spain is easily accessible. Agents can be found by searching properties commonly using the website idealista. When you contact a property you will see the agency name. They can assist with the rental procedure. Lawyers can assist with anything else pretty much.
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel once again, thank you! What kind of lawyer do I hire? I live near Chicago IL. Do I hire a lawyer for a long time, before I leave and on until when I arrive(and beyond) ? Does a lawyer help with finding an apartment to rent? Sorry for all these questions, if you don't have time to answer them, I'm sure you will cover them in future videos. ☀️
@@TheEmptyMiddleSeatTravel once again😊 gracias por tu ayuda!😊
@@carrieb9106 Hi the lawyer will assist you throughout the process for a flat fee. My lawyer was 750 euros, they help you with everything until you get your residency card. I used Just Law in Fuengirola, here is their link www.justlawsolicitors.com/team/
Can you share how much your rent is? Thanks
Generally rent in the center or port area will be 900-1200 euros for a 2-3 bedroom. In Los Boliches, where I am it is a bit cheaper 800-1000 for the same size.
Are pre-pay sims available for visitors?
Yes, they are everywhere here and reasonably priced
Fingerprints why? Like a criminal!? So much bureaucracy. I love your breakdown.
Thank you. They fingerprint you at the police station for your ID, I guess so they have a database.
Vaun Malone every Country you have to, nothing to fear or yes if you are a … OMG have you ever entered the USA?
Probably to check with interpol and if your intent is to rob the place then leave. It makes their job a bit easier. :)
How’s the seafood?
Fantastic, best I have had
Thank you I want to move to do you have a lawyer and a agent who sells or rent apartments I what to go to fuengirola I come there for 20 years
Hi, yes here is a link to the lawyers I used, Just Law Solicitors. www.justlawsolicitors.com/ In regards to an agent, they only show properties they have listed. My best advice would be to check Idealista, find a property that you like and contact that agent. The agent and firm I used was Madel Homes, they have properties for sale and for rent. Good luck with your move.
Welcome to Spain, Chemtrail paradise .. They spray like crazy since 3/4 years..
What do you mean? Can one ovoid those even if living there?
@@johannaaa1434 It's every day except for July and August. All over NATO countries.
If you do not mind , what was your agent?
Juan at Madel Homes in Los Boliches
How fluent is your Spanish?
Not at the conversational level, which is where I would like to be.
Interesting how North Americans can simply move to Europe but if Europeans move to Canada/US, they need permanent residency or Greencard which is nearly impossible to get in today’s age.
there are different types of visa for the US, I'm sure you can spend a year there without a greencard
Congratulations on your move and well organized approach. Using attorneys must have paid for itself in the peace of mind their services provided you. I’d follow in your footsteps ASAP if I could get my wife on board (figuratively and literally). We’re in a financial position to do it, we’re both U.S. born citizens who were raised on Spanish as a second language, but I’m more fed up with America society than she is, although she too detests the direction of this country under our senile, maleable, corrupted puppet of a president.
It's a great way of life over here. Good luck
I thought 45 was and still is the corrupted president.
Why would you move there if you don’t speak the language?
What’s the relevance? I have lived in many countries. English is the most widely spoken language in the World
@@howard4510 because less than twenty percent of the people are conversational in English? It seems to me that you should at least have a basic knowledge of the language before you get there
What a weird comment 😐
@@eastcoasthobbygardening9147 ¿por que tu piensasa mi comentario es taro?
*raro
One phone, two sim cards, is my solution.
What’s so special about Spain, it’s just a beach 🙈😁 and «mañana por la mañana».
I don't think beaches are the main reason. Actually the beach is not that good. "Mañana por la mañana" sounds like an stereotype
@@bkkkaraoke Spain seems to be friendly and hospitable country, but who knows. «Owls are not what they seem».
@@MarinaTarassevich Spain is, I can confirm as I’ve been living here since I can remember
Insurance is cheap. Health care some of the best in the world. Have a look on the internet. For phone calls back to the UK where my family are I use Skype. Best of luck try and keep warm. It's 9.40pm as I tap this out and it's still in the upper 20c. Sorry to rub it in but you chose the wrong place.
God those chemtrails though😓
So much red tape and expensive to do this process. It is not that cheap either to live there. I don’t see what benefit people have. Better off visiting a few times a year and save thousands in fees and taxes.
Excellent video super thanks
Thanks, I appreciate it.
with all that legal cost and legal hastle just to stay in a sunny place for a time seems to stressfull its like a communist country.
I plan on staying forever.
Very interesting. I looked at moving to Spain many years ago from the UK, but decided to move to Thailand. And Buddha am I pleased I did. having seen the things you have to do to get a simple Bank acc or an internet connection or even a phone. Let alone the problems getting this and that to stay there. Added to that the weather during the winter no thank you.
Is it any easier here in Thailand???
Well to get a bank acc: just walk into any bank with your passport oh and some cash and they will open one for you at once. A 1 year visa your local Immigration office (every town has them) show you have monies in a Thai bank in your name, 1 passport photo, 1 form that you get in the office. And they do it for you there, takes around 30 min: You don't even require to show any monies or go to the I/O if you use an agent.
Internet everywhere is fiber optic up to 1000MPS. I have an AIS 350MPS set up that cost around 8/9 Euros a month. To get internet. Just go into an AIS shop with passport tell them your address and they do the rest, they normally fit it the next day. N/B you don't need a Bank acc:
Phones. Again any phone shop they will sell you any phone you want. Cheap as chips here. Phones (All are open so they will take any world wild sim) Or a local one that will be fully compliant with all set ups. Price here are some 50% of what they are in Spain. My average spending is around 10k euros a year.
I could go on. But last but not least the weather here it's the 25 Jan: 2023 today so winter time the temp: is around 33c + the usual blue skies we get at this time of year. As I am tapping this out all I'm wearing is a pair of cotton shorts no top. Maybe people should think twice as to where they retire to.
What about healthcare and insurance?
33c during the winter time.... must be crazy hot during the summer.😓😓
@@sunshinefl6586 Normally in the upper 30c about the same as Spain. We do have A/C for that, at least we don't require fires/heating during the winter. Saves on clothes as I don't even possess a jacket. It's shorts and short sleave tops all year. Oh Only going to be 31c today. With just the normal clear Blue skies.
@@fredob43 Every place has its bad points. Thailand is hot and humid all.of the time and when the rainy season arrives flooding takes place regularly. There are people only too willing to rip foreigners off since every single one is presumed to have bags of money. Pollution and lack of cleanliness in urban areas is another problem. Best to give people a balanced view.
You are correct, there is a lot of bureaucracy here, and things are not the simplest. But we like it. Thailand sounds great