While Spain has suffered from problems in the past - an unstable political background, lack of internal investment and low productivity levels – the country is now beginning to flourish. The Spanish economy is listed as the 8th largest in the world, currently growing at over 3% per annum. Spain was the first country to adopt the Euro, resulting in some very exciting opportunities in the larger cities.
Once you’ve found your place in the economy, take advantage of the relaxed pace of life to do some exploring. Spain is comprised of seventeen autonomous regions and the differences are everywhere you look: in language, landscape, attitude and architecture. Celebrate a fiesta with the locals, party all night in Madrid, savor Basque cuisine or walk the wilds of Extremadura.
The new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitles you to free emergency healthcare and will ensure you don’t pay for treatment during your first few months in Spain.
The Spanish state offers socially funded health care to all of its residents. More than 90% of the population use this system to access medical, pharmaceutical and hospital care. Medicines cost less than in other countries thanks to price capping by the government.
Even though they’re entitled to choose their own GP, approximately 15% of the population pays for some form of private medical insurance to complement the public health service. Prices depend on the age and sex of the beneficiary: A man of 40, for example, will typically pay around £33 per month, while a woman of the same age will pay £38.
Most state health centres have a dentist who will provide free treatment to anyone registered with the social security system. Private dental treatment is also widely available and prices are low compared to private treatment in the UK.
Once you are settled in your chosen city you’ll need to find a place to rent. Ask friends and contacts - good property is often found through word of mouth. You may have some luck with the local press or responding to a sign in a window but your best bet is the national classifieds paper, Segunda Mano.
Rental contracts are either short-term ('de temporada') or long-term, which refers to contracts of a year or more. Spanish law affords less rights to short-term tenants than you might expect, so be aware.
Prices are based on the number of bedrooms and total floor area. Rents in the city are more expensive but you may be pushed for choice in small towns and rural areas. A deposit ('fianza') is required and is returned after inspection at the end of the tenancy. Check contracts carefully and make sure you obtain all receipts and proof of payments.
Spain drives on the right. Drivers with EU licenses can use the licence from their issuing country but must register it, together with their Spanish address, at the Jefatura de Tráfico. You can also exchange your domestic licence for a Spanish one.
Non EU members have to take a driving test, with the exceptions being Japan, Switzerland and Korea. Driving in Spanish cities can be unpredictable and parking is in short supply. If you’re going to rent a car, get one with GPS if possible.
RENFE is the national rail network and provides reliable long-distance trains across Spain. The short-distance trains, however, have a reputation for delays, especially in the Barcelona area.
The most reliable form of public transport is the bus. Many major routes go direct and all run frequently. There is a different operator for each route but staff at the bus station will be happy to tell you who operates which route. You can research fares and times on www.movelia.es beforehand.
