Expat Community > Spain

Ozcelt
Joined 2022
Posts: 2

Dual citizenship dilemma!

2 years ago

So, this is going to seem initially like one of those "good problems" to have!
We're both Australian citizens AND Irish (EU) citizens. We're keen to retire permanently in either Spain or Portugal (still deciding).
We both qualify for an Australian aged pension (at 67...so not quite yet) and have also a chunk of money in self-funded Australian superannuation (pension). So, crudely, we have a more than adequate recurring income. There is also a social security/services agreement between Australia and both Portugal and Spain (we think), which probably means we can avail ourselves of healthcare etc to some degree.
But, even so, if we come in ONLY on an Aussie passport, we have still to go through the whole non-EU citizen visa process - which seems to require a lot of up-front cash (which we really don't have).
We want to do the right thing wherever we choose to go: so, is it OK for us to claim permanent residency in either Spain or Portugal USING OUR EU citizenship - and possibly have to use healthcare etc in the (distant) future, but then still use our Australian citizenship to "prove" our income qualification etc? Anyone out there who has some knowledge or advice or expertise in this sort of juggling act?

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Living in Spain Guide

Expats Living in Spain offer their advice for others making the move to the nation on the Iberian peninsula. From what to bring, to learning Spanish, culture shock and more, read on to learn how to settle into your new life as an expat in Spain.

Spain Forum
Join our Spain forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Spain.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Spain.

Best Places to Live in Spain

If you're thinking about living in Spain, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Spain in 2023.

Healthcare in Spain

Expats in Spain share their experiences with healthcare and overseas medical insurance in Spain.

Cost of Living in Spain

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Spain.

Moving to Spain Guide

Expats move to Spain from all over the world. People of all ages move there to work, retire, or just enjoy the culture and Spain's natural beauty. With so many places to choose from, our tips for moving to Spain will get you started on picking the perfect place for you.

Real Estate in Spain

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Spain.

Pros & Cons of Living in Spain

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Spain.

Retiring in Spain

Advice for people retiring in Spain.

10 Tips for Living in Spain

If you've recently arrived in Spain, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Spain.

Additional Information:

Visit our Spain Index for a Full List

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Spain by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Spain.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Expat Community > Spain

Dual citizenship dilemma!

Login