Preparing To Work In Spain
For years now Spain has been one of the UK’s favourite destinations if you want to live and work abroad. It is only beaten by Australia.
The temptation of Spain is its climate especially in the south of the country and also its close proximity to the UK and families back home. It’s tempted about 800,000 ex-pats already. As Spain is part of the EU it is easy to move there with no restrictions but if you are intending to stay and work there are a few things you should do.
Learn the language
High on your ‘move to Spain’ agenda should be to learn the language. This is particularly true if you want to work in Spain. Even though you might find jobs in the ex-pat or tourist communities where you can get away with little Spanish, it will be needed in most occupations.
Being able to speak Spanish will also help you to integrate with the Spanish life and culture and not remain an ‘outsider’ mixing only with other ex-Brits.
Spanish has in roots in Latin too, just like English so once the different pronunciations are mastered, it is one of the easier languages to learn.
Look for employment
If possible secure your employment in Spain before you move over. There are plenty of online recruitment agencies to help you find something suitable.
If you arrive with no work then you should register with the Spanish National Employment Office (Instituto Nacional de Empelo – INEM). This will give you 90 days to find employment otherwise you have to leave and re-enter.
How long can you stay in Spain?
If you want to stay longer than three months you need to apply for a Certificate of Residence. You can do this in person at the Oficina de Extranjeros in the province you choose. The certificate will have your details on it along with your nationality and a Foreign Identity Number or NIE and the date you registered. You don’t need to do anything else until the certificate expires.
You will also be asked to produce evidence of financial support for yourself and your family if they are with you. You may also be asked for proof of healthcare provision.
Apply for a Form S1 which you present to your Spanish doctor’s surgery or hospital. Under the EU agreements, you should then be entitled to healthcare as you are in the UK.
Taxation
If you spend six month in total in Spain in any one year you will be liable for tax. If you have applied for a Certificate of Residence, that immediately makes you liable. Remember that the Spanish tax year runs from 1st January to 31st December.
You will be taxed on your worldwide income if you are a Spanish resident. Unless you have some income from the UK this won’t matter. If you do, you can deduct the tax you pay in the UK from your overall income on your tax form.
Take professional advice
To make your move as smooth as possible, seek advice from professionals or the company who will employ you when you go to work in Spain to be sure all things official are covered off.
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Bill Turner is an entrepreneur and technology guru. He enjoys contributing to the latest web technologies and writing techy articles.
