We will be visiting Spain for approximately 10 days in June 2023. We plan to arrive either in Malaga or Barcelona and drive between the two. In addition to simply enjoying what we anticipate to be a beautiful drive and stopping along the way to see worthwhile spots (we like the beach, museums, good restaurants, local areas of interest, etc. we also want to take this opportunity to take care of any important tasks required for anyone moving to Spain.
So far we understand that having a bank account is critical. Any recommendations regarding expectations of Spanish banks and what type of accounts to setup are appreciated. We also appreciate any comments about other similar steps that we should accomplish while there that may aid in our move later in 2024/2025.
One other question is regarding health insurance. We have health insurance that is good anywhere in the world. For example we currently live close to Canada, so when we travel to Canada we don't have to worry about buying Canadian health insurance. We use our own, and have done so successfully when we needed to see a doctor in Calgary. I have read that Spain requires residents (non-citizens) to buy Spanish health insurance. Would this be true in my case?
Rent vs. Buy recommendations will also be helpful, including what to look out for. We understand some apartments are not well insulated and can have uncomfortable temp swings during the year. At this point we are not too concerned (yet) regarding a lot of the other stuff that comes later such as actual moving, how much of our "stuff" to take with, should I get a car, etc. Don't want to waste too much time on that until we decide for sure that we want to make the move.
Thanks in advance!
So far we understand that having a bank account is critical. Any recommendations regarding expectations of Spanish banks and what type of accounts to setup are appreciated. We also appreciate any comments about other similar steps that we should accomplish while there that may aid in our move later in 2024/2025.
One other question is regarding health insurance. We have health insurance that is good anywhere in the world. For example we currently live close to Canada, so when we travel to Canada we don't have to worry about buying Canadian health insurance. We use our own, and have done so successfully when we needed to see a doctor in Calgary. I have read that Spain requires residents (non-citizens) to buy Spanish health insurance. Would this be true in my case?
Rent vs. Buy recommendations will also be helpful, including what to look out for. We understand some apartments are not well insulated and can have uncomfortable temp swings during the year. At this point we are not too concerned (yet) regarding a lot of the other stuff that comes later such as actual moving, how much of our "stuff" to take with, should I get a car, etc. Don't want to waste too much time on that until we decide for sure that we want to make the move.
Thanks in advance!
