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197 Article results found for 'spanish pensions'
Updated: Fri 12th Aug 2016
Just how bad does the wiring have to be before a Spanish property needs rewiring ? ... more
Updated: Mon 6th Apr 2015
Cancelling any contract in Spain can be a difficult and time-consuming process - even for those who speak the language to an advanced level. There always seems to a complicated system to adhere to, or that one essential ... more
Updated: Mon 16th Feb 2015
Those living in Spain will be all-too familiar with the process of resetting a tripped switch in their electricity supply fuse box for a variety of reasons, however, with the increase in the installation of Smart meters, ... more
Updated: Sun 26th Oct 2014
Poor customer service is inexcusable in any culture or language.
Just like many of the locals, Expats apprecia ... more
Updated: Thu 20th Feb 2014
According to Spanish consumer association FACUA, the 2 most common causes for consumer complaints by the general public in Spain are those to Electricity providers and Telecoms operators ... more
Updated: Thu 6th Feb 2014
It is often taken for granted that all members of the legal community act professionally, ethically and with integrity at all times. Expats who are newly arrived in Spain often find themselves without the ability to ask for ... more
Updated: Fri 31st Jan 2014
Along with complaints about Banks and other financial institutions; and complaints about local Town Halls, complaints about the Police rank highly amongst Non-Spaniards living in Spain and who may have fallen foul of certain ... more
Updated: Tue 28th Jan 2014
Often confusing and sometimes amusing, Spain's law concerning crash helmets for Motorcycles, Quad Bikes and Mopeds can often leave many foreigners in the dark ... more
Updated: Sat 16th Nov 2013
Anybody who has ever purchased a property in in Spain will at some time have heard of "the Boletin" with regards to obtaining a supply of electricity, But what does this document entail ? : ... more
Updated: Sun 3rd Nov 2013
Much has been written on the subject of Spanish Community of Residents (Comunidad de Propietarios), specifically what they entail and their responsibilities ... more
Updated: Sun 6th Oct 2013
The majority of would-be buyers of Spanish property are aware of both the many services offered by a Surveyor, and of the importance of having a survey undertaken on any potential purchase ... more
Updated: Sat 28th Sep 2013
The Spanish climate, way of life and fantastic scenery in many parts of the country makes owning both a motorcycle / quad bike - or even renting one whilst on holiday - an attractive consideration. Add in the cost of ... more
Updated: Tue 23rd Jul 2013
As of November 2012 the EU introduced a new system of tyre demarcation in order to provide information concerning the environmental and safety aspects of each tyre as it rolls of the production line.
With echoes of Spain’s ... more
Updated: Fri 21st Jun 2013
With this in mind Tumbit asked Building Surveyor Mark Paddon BSc Hons MCIOB. FAS. CAAT, why taking a moment to consider the bigger picture is a good idea.
”Whilst property buyers in Spain ... more
Updated: Mon 27th May 2013
Of all the types of property available in Spain, it is perhaps the Cave House that causes the would-be buyer the most cause for concern. Undoubtedly, this is because of the fact that it is so unfamiliar to those who have not ... more
Updated: Sun 5th May 2013
After having bought a property in need of a little care and attention, many new owners find that the electricity supply is not suitable for their requirements. The modern-day preference for electrical appliances and ... more
Updated: Tue 23rd Apr 2013
In these times of austerity – and escalating energy prices – it stands to reason that the prudent owner of property in Spain is interested in seeking ways to reduce their Electricity Bills ... more
Updated: Sun 21st Apr 2013
Unless you are a trained professional, it is not easy to see any potential defects that may be lurking beneath the surface of a property ... more
Updated: Tue 9th Apr 2013
"Do I actually need a Survey when purchasing a property, or is this just another needless expense ?" is just one question many would-be buyers of Spanish Property ask themselves ... more
Updated: Sun 31st Mar 2013
The various expat forums have recently been awash with confusion surrounding the introduction of a new law to take effect from the 1st of June 2013, whereby property owners must legally obtain a “Certificado de Eficiencia ... more
Updated: Thu 21st Mar 2013
Alongside complaints about Banks in Spain, complaints about Ayuntamiento and Town Hall administration are perhaps the most common quibbles by all non-Spanish residents ... more
Updated: Sun 17th Mar 2013
Moving abroad to a new country, whether for work or retirement, and being away from friends and family in your home country can often understandably cause many expats to have the “What if...” conversation with themselves ... more
Updated: Mon 25th Feb 2013
It can sometimes come as a surprise to the newly-arrived expat to find that Spain experiences the 4 seasons, and that the sun isn’t always shinning. ... more
Updated: Sat 2th Feb 2013
Benjamin Disraeli famously commented “Lies, damned lies and statistics” when an opponent tried to baffle him with meaningless figures. The use of statistics to make an argument or disprove a theory is as old as time itself, ... more
Updated: Sun 13th Jan 2013
If there is one question that is asked more than any other on the various expat property forums, it is by potential expats asking whereabouts in Spain they should chose to relocate to ... more
Updated: Thu 6th Dec 2012
As more and more expats move to Spain and integrate into the wider Spanish community, it is a sad but inevitable truth that more and more of us will have cause to attend a Spanish funeral ... more
Updated: Tue 4th Dec 2012
Weddings in Spain – just as they are in most other countries – can be deeply personal events, and as such it would be difficult to give a cast-iron Guide as to the etiquette to be followed for each and every wedding day. As ... more
Updated: Tue 27th Nov 2012
Few people can lay claim to looking forward to visiting their Dentist, and after relocating Spain registering with a reliable and professionally qualified Dentist is often way down the list of priorities. Tumbit asked Alex ... more
Updated: Thu 22th Nov 2012
Over the course of the last decade tends of thousands of British Citizens have made the decision to start a new life in Spain ... more
Updated: Fri 19th Oct 2012
Unless you are a professionally qualified tradesman - or at the very least an experienced DIY-er - you would be well advised to leave any issue concerning Spanish electrics to the experts.
... more
Updated: Sat 13th Oct 2012
The financial crisis seen in Spain over recent years has brought with it an increasing number of married and co-habiting expat couples who have taken the decision to go their separate ways. In some cases an agreement can be ... more
Updated: Thu 12th Jul 2012
There has understandably been much confusion and many questions arising from the recent changes made by the Central Government to the Prescription charges which apply in Spain. The simple truth is that this has not been ... more
Updated: Mon 25th Jun 2012
The issue of where to make a will, and the implications which it may have on inheritance tax liabilities is one that is often overlooked by many non-resident owners of property in Spain ... more
Updated: Mon 25th Jun 2012
The idea of making your tax return as a Spanish resident worries a number of people. In fact, it is almost always a painless process which can even be completed online - It also enables you to prove that you are a fiscal ... more
Updated: Thu 21st Jun 2012
Recent announcements about Spanish SIP cards and contributions towards prescriptions have left residents in Spain confused. Ábaco is receiving an increasing number of enquiries about who will be affected and how much people ... more
Updated: Tue 12th Jun 2012
Finding that dream Spanish property, in your chosen location and at the right price can often seem such an uphill struggle that once you have actually found a property to buy, many people will enter into a purchase agreement ... more
Updated: Sun 20th May 2012
For a long term cost saving plan consider owning your electric meter, rather than renting it. That is the advice given by Tony Poole from Sparks In Spain, our Guru on all things electrical ... more
Updated: Wed 18th Apr 2012
Non-Resident owners of Spanish property
are reminded that they are legally obliged to submit an Income Tax declaration - and now, after being reintroduced- a Property Wealth Tax declaration ... more
Updated: Tue 10th Apr 2012
Anyone who either owns or is planning to buy property in Spain needs to know about the Catastral value of the property ... more
Updated: Sun 8th Apr 2012
The EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), commonly known as a European Medical Card, can be used to cover any medical treatment provided by the state that you may require due to accident or illness during your time in Spain ... more
Updated: Fri 6th Apr 2012
When you buy a resale property in Spain you must pay transfer tax (ITP). This is currently at 7% of the purchase price. If, at a later date, the Tax Authority consider that the declared purchase price is not a correct ... more
Updated: Mon 19th Mar 2012
The Nota Simple is an official extract report that contains a full property description and can be obtained from the local property title registry office or, by subscribers, over the Internet. This is a very important ... more
Updated: Sat 10th Mar 2012
When it comes to choosing a house for purchase, or carrying out works to an existing property, materials, design and build methods can make the difference between an easy life with low maintenance requirements, or a future ... more
Updated: Fri 9th Mar 2012
In times of difficult economic conditions it is only to be expected that many families are looking at ways in which they can reduce their monthly outgoings. One such means of budgeting may be to consider ‘parking up’ a ... more
Updated: Thu 8th Mar 2012
It is far from being a Spanish state secret, but many Expat Pensioners living here in Spain are often unaware of the fact that they are entitled to a yearly holiday, subsidised by the Spanish Government ... more
Updated: Sun 4th Mar 2012
The railways in Spain are a public body responsible to the Ministry of Development, and officially titled 'Red Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Espanoles' - RENFE. The network currently covers some 15’000km and takes in 2’500 ... more
Updated: Sun 26th Feb 2012
In these times of falling property prices and increasing rates of unemployment, a common question being asked on many expat forum is the subject of handing the keys back to the bank and walking away from a property that you ... more
Updated: Mon 13th Feb 2012
A common mistake made by foreign buyers of Spanish property is that of assuming that any purchasing procedures and legal formalities associated with any such sale are the same as in their own country ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Feb 2012
With estimates of as many as 800’000 unsold Spanish homes on the property market, it doesn’t take a genius to appreciate that the advantage is currently with the buyer when it comes to negotiating the sale of a property.
... more
Updated: Mon 6th Feb 2012
One down side of a warm climate is the increase in insects. Even treated areas of timberwork e.g. windows and doors, may still show signs of attack. Some beetles and termites are so ferocious that they may make headway into ... more
Updated: Wed 1st Feb 2012
Sometimes the easiest way to explain the exact function of a Chartered Surveyor is to describe the variety of surveys on which their expertise is considered vital. As you will be able to see, their knowledge can be requested ... more
Updated: Mon 30th Jan 2012
The number of 'bargain', or distressed properties on the market at the moment can cause many an eager buyer to commit themselves to a purchase without any prior thought to the costs involved in owning such a property ... more
Updated: Wed 25th Jan 2012
We all have an opinion about the value of a property, especially when it’s ours, and that’s the problem! It’s the value that a prudent, knowledgeable buyer will put on it that’s important ... more
Updated: Mon 23rd Jan 2012
Flat roofs are common in Spain and often form useful terraces above the living space. In higher density developments nearly all homes come with at least a proportion of flat roof ‘solarium’. There are various types of build ... more
Updated: Tue 10th Jan 2012
The Inspección Técnica de Edificios (ITE) comes into force in 2012, but what is it for, and which properties does it apply to ? ... more
Updated: Sat 7th Jan 2012
A Widow or Widowers benefit is available from the Spanish State to the surviving partner of conventional or common-law marriage, when the deceased and surviving partner meet the requirements for eligibility ... more
Updated: Wed 30th Nov 2011
Anyone who has lived in Spain for more than a year will doubtlessly be aware of the fact that it does actually rain here.
A lot.
We asked Surveyor, Mark Paddon, the effect that huge amounts of rain can have on Spanish ... more
Updated: Mon 14th Nov 2011
When it comes to choosing a house for purchase, or carrying out works to an existing property, materials, design and build methods can make the difference between an easy life with low maintenance requirements, or a future ... more
Updated: Tue 4th Oct 2011
The convenience of living in the Pueblo, combined with the charm and relative good value of an older property, can often mean that buying and restoring a Spanish Townhouse are attractive to foreign buyers. Quiet often this ... more
Updated: Wed 28th Sep 2011
All Non-resident owners of Spanish properties are liable for paying Spanish income taxes - regardless of whether they actually have any earnings in Spain, or let their property out for a small income.
... more
Updated: Mon 26th Sep 2011
The Socialist PSOE Government abolished wealth tax (impuesto extraordinario sobre el patrimonio) - often referred to as simply 'el Patrimonio' in Spanish - on the 1st of January 2008 in a bid to stimulate the country's ... more
Updated: Fri 9th Sep 2011
So what do you need to know about towing a trailer in Spain and the law ? ... more
Updated: Sat 20th Aug 2011
Don’t leave it to chance : It’s common sense - think about what attracts/attracted you to a particular property that you want/wanted to buy ... more
Updated: Thu 11th Aug 2011
IBI (Impuesto sobre bienes inmuebles urbana / rustica) is a tax that is payable by the owners of all Spanish properties - regardless of their residential status.
The request for payment u ... more
Updated: Tue 9th Aug 2011
The concept of a 'Common Law' marriage, or relationship is still relatively recent by Spanish standards ... more
Updated: Fri 29th Jul 2011
Naturally, and for obvious reasons, this guide only applies to the owners of used (IE: previously registered) Spanish vehicles ... more
Updated: Sat 23rd Jul 2011
The question of whether or not buyers need a survey can actually be answered by a significant proportion of new build owners, most having experienced various problems with their new properties, ranging from what are almost ... more
Updated: Thu 14th Jul 2011
With the summer season in full swing, the Agencia Tributaria (Spain's tax authority) is launching a campaign to cut down on illegal property rentals. We asked Raquel Perez from
Perez Legal Group
to tell us more.... ... more
Updated: Wed 13th Jul 2011
If you are a dog owner considering bringing your pet into Spain, or even if you live in Spain already but are thinking of buying or adopting a larger dog, there are a number of considerations that you need to bear in mind ... more
Updated: Fri 1st Jul 2011
Buying a property in Spain can often come with the requirement to make certain reformations or repairs - especially if you are buying a property that has not been maintained or modernised in quite some time. Owners that move ... more
Updated: Tue 21st Jun 2011
From time to time problems can and do occur in Spanish Banks, just as they do in other countries. Quite often any grievance can be sorted out at a branch level simply by speaking with the manager and putting your case ... more
Updated: Mon 20th Jun 2011
It’s a common question asked by most purchasers and existing owners when taking out insurance cover on their home. As most insurers benefit from the higher premiums associated with over valuation, they are less likely to ... more
Updated: Sat 18th Jun 2011
It is obligatory in Spain for a new build property to have ‘Seguro Decenal’ which is insurance on the building for 10 years. This article by Building Surveyor Mark Paddon explains what the implications are when buying a new ... more
Updated: Mon 16th May 2011
Global recession has hit small businesses hard, closing stores and causing job layoffs along with lots of restructuring. In one sense, this is good; companies are streamlining, and the recession is forcing businesses to take ... more
Updated: Mon 16th May 2011
If you have a UK photo card driving licence dating from 1997 or after (or full UK licence dating from 1990) it will be sufficient to allow you to drive legally in Spain. However, when it expires (or if it gets lost or ... more
Updated: Fri 13th May 2011
Your move to Spain is complete and you’ve settled in to your new house, work and lifestyle. But what about your future here?
Will you be here at retirement age, and will you be eligible for a Spanish or a UK pension? You ... more
Updated: Thu 12th May 2011
If you are arrested in Spain or fall victim of any crime you will be concerned to receive good legal advice and assistance. Your first point of contact should be the nearest British Consulate, and they will in any case be ... more
Updated: Thu 12th May 2011
Homeschooling is all the rage in the United States, but it is on the decline in Europe, and now Germany has effectively outlawed the process, delivering fines and even jail sentences to home-schoolers. In Sweden, many ... more
Updated: Wed 11th May 2011
In 2010, 73 women died at the hands of their partners in Spain, and this shocking statistic has given rise to the declaration that domestic violence in Spain is ‘the biggest cancer of Spanish society’. Certainly Zapatero’s ... more
Updated: Tue 10th May 2011
Unlike the UK where child benefit has been available since the 1940’s, Spain has not offered a government backed incentive for children and families until the introduction of the Baby Bonus scheme in July 2007. However, ... more
Updated: Thu 14th Apr 2011
... And What to do if the developer has not complied with the contract... ... more
Updated: Sat 9th Apr 2011
I am unavoidably absent on Voting Day so I will have to be a postal voter. What do I do?
... more
Updated: Fri 8th Apr 2011
With the "economic crisis" constantly featured in the media, many of us are thinking more about whether we are receiving all the help available to us. You may be aware that Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Attendance ... more
Updated: Tue 29th Mar 2011
It doesn't need to be said that is no shortage of information out there concerning QROPS - Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes - and much of the advice given is very good. The problem is that unless you have an ... more
Updated: Tue 22th Mar 2011
Chances are that if you have been seriously looking at buying a property in Spain for any period of time, that you already know who the AIPP are, or at the very least have seen their logo attached to various member websites ... more
Updated: Thu 17th Mar 2011
Have you ever searched through Estate Agent websites when looking at property in Spain and wondered exactly what the badges and logo's located at the foot of the page represent ? ... more
Updated: Tue 1st Feb 2011
Much has already been written about the importance of fitting the correct car safety seat for babies and children. This guide will assume that nobody needs to be convinced of that fact, but will instead look at the ... more
Updated: Fri 28th Jan 2011
It is by no means unusual for people to move house every once in a while, and while the process is widely acknowledged to be one of the most stressful things to happen in life, it is easy to see how that can escalate when a ... more
Updated: Thu 20th Jan 2011
For many generations smoking in Spain has formed part of Spanish culture and it has been accepted as the norm for teenagers through to grandparents across the country to be able to smoke openly and without prejudice or fear ... more
Updated: Wed 29th Dec 2010
If you are the owner of a spanish registered road vehicle, you may already know from personal experiences just how erratic the system of being awarded, and receiving fines for motoring offences can be here in Spain ... more
Updated: Thu 28th Oct 2010
Before entering this particular minefield you need to confirm whether you have ever paid any contributions in the UK. If you have, it means you may have a vested interest in continuing with the UK system, but you need to ... more
Updated: Thu 28th Oct 2010
If you already live, work or study in Spain it is likely that you will have come across the Spanish healthcare system in some form or another. Hospitals and clinics here are comparable to the best that the uk has to offer, ... more
Updated: Thu 28th Oct 2010
Spanish Capital Gains Tax or Impuesto sobre Incremento de Patrimonio de la Venta de un Bien Inmeuble is complicated, but in simple terms, it is a tax charged on capital gains, i.e. the profit made on the sale of an asset ... more
Updated: Sun 18th Jul 2010
As in many other countries, it is possible to get certain utility bills or facturas online. Unfortunately, most of the major providers are very efficient in taking their direct debits, but when it comes to ensuring that your ... more
Updated: Sun 11th Jul 2010
Assuming that you are a citizen from another eu country, then you are legally entitled to work in spain without a work permit. It is recommended that you first visit spain and spend some time to see if you are suited to the ... more
Updated: Mon 21st Jun 2010
Unless you are a citizen of the USA, Australia or New Zealand then you are required to hold a Visado de Residencia (Residence visa) to be allowed to enter Spain, however if you wish to stay for longer than 90 days then you ... more
Updated: Tue 15th Jun 2010
For some people living in Spain, finances can be tight and the long cold Spanish winter can prove to be finacially draining, however you might be able to claim the UK Winter Fuel Allowance even though you live in Spain ... more
Updated: Thu 10th Jun 2010
The EHIC system has received much bad press of late, largely due to some changes in certain EU regulations which has effected the application and issue process – mainly effecting UK pensioners, or those who have taken early ... more
Updated: Sun 9th May 2010
When moving to Spain a lot of people quite naturally weigh up the pros and cons of bringing the car that they had in the UK over with them. Sometimes the obvious thing to do is to stay away from the additional expense of ... more
Updated: Fri 9th Apr 2010
If you were Non-Spanish resident who sold a property in Spain between January 1997 and December 2006, chances are that you paid 35% Capital Gains Tax ... more
Updated: Wed 24th Mar 2010
When the death of a loved one happens in a foreign country there can be a multitude of procedures to carry out and people to notify that you have never had to think about. It is an unfortunate subject to have to write about, ... more
Updated: Tue 16th Mar 2010
Driving on Spanish motorways can be surprisingly straightforward – they are nowhere near as congested as their counterparts in the UK, and this alone can often take the sting out of having to pay for the privilege of using ... more
Updated: Sat 6th Mar 2010
It is natural for people who own an investment property to want to rent it out, as the income derived can help to pay off the mortgage, add to your monthly income or provide a nest egg for the future. Too often, though, ... more
Updated: Sat 13th Feb 2010
Any parent will tell you that having a baby and raising a child can be an expensive process, regardless of the country that you may choose to make your home. However, when you are far away from your friends, family, support ... more
Updated: Wed 13th Jan 2010
All applications for your professional qualification to be officially recognised in Spain must be sent to the appropriate competent authority for the regulated profession that you wish to practice here. In many cases you ... more
Updated: Mon 4th Jan 2010
Whether you are a family searching for an Au pair, or maybe an Au pair looking for a family to live and work with in Spain, there are a number of considerations that you need to be aware of. These points should be taken ... more
Updated: Mon 21st Dec 2009
Although the overall principal of successfully applying for a mortgage is the same in Spain as it is in the UK, there are a few differences between the 2 products that it pays to be aware of. Any mortgage that will be ... more
Updated: Sat 19th Dec 2009
Despite the climate, larger motorcycles are few and far between on Spanish roads, but mopeds and scooters are very popular. Indeed they can even be problematic in some Towns and Cities with their incessant noise and erratic ... more
Updated: Fri 18th Dec 2009
Being eligible for Spanish citizenship depends largely on the nationality of your parents, your current nationality and the length of time that you have being living in Spain. If one of your parents is Spanish, you were born ... more
Updated: Thu 17th Dec 2009
Depending upon the type and situation of your chosen property, it can often mean that you are required to become part of an officially recognised Community of Owners (Comunidad de Propietarios). You should find this out from ... more
Updated: Thu 17th Dec 2009
The process of buying a property from an estate agent needs very little in the way of an introduction. Providing that you can find a reputable and experienced agent covering your chosen location and that you are satisfied ... more
Updated: Thu 17th Dec 2009
The truth is that bad news, horror stories and sensationalism holds more Interest with the general public, than stories of good news do.Despite what Sir Trevor McDonald and Television programmes in the UK, such as Panorama, ... more
Updated: Tue 15th Dec 2009
Whilst writing a Professional CV is very similar in both English and Spanish, with just a few subtle differences - it is those subtle differences that may be the deciding factor between your application being succesful or ... more
Updated: Mon 14th Dec 2009
With building restrictions in Spain at their most restrictive than ever before, especially for anyone living in the countryside looking to build an extension, you maybe considering to build or transform your underbuild ... more
Updated: Wed 9th Dec 2009
... Or, in most cases - "Do I really need a Life Insurance Policy on top of all my other outgoings ?" ... Everybody has an opinon on the debate about Life Insurance - and the much asked question from the younger generations ... more
Updated: Wed 2th Dec 2009
The property boom in Spain a few years back brought with it an explosion of new Estate Agents looking to exploit the interest in new developments and property resales alike. Since the decline of the property industry many of ... more
Updated: Mon 30th Nov 2009
Euribor is an abbreviation for Euro Interbank Offered Rate. These rates are based on the interest rates at which panels of 57 European banks borrow between themselves at. During this process, the quotes that fall in the ... more
Updated: Mon 30th Nov 2009
As in most Countries, learning to drive in Spain can be an expensive thing to do, with the average price for a session being around 25€ an hour - additionally you will require further classes to learn the theory, and these ... more
Updated: Sat 28th Nov 2009
Driving whilst under the effects of alcohol is something that is taken very seriously in Spain and is similar to other Countries of the EU, where the limit over which driving is an offence or the length of suspension and ... more
Updated: Wed 25th Nov 2009
Generally, Car Hire companies in Spain require the driver to be at least 22 years of age– rising to 25 years for certain models of Car – and almost all companies also have an upper age limit of 65 years. All drivers are ... more
Updated: Tue 24th Nov 2009
As soon as you have decided upon the type of enterprise that you wish to run and have thoroughly researched a suitable area, you will need to begin looking for the right business premises, or locales. ... more
Updated: Thu 12th Nov 2009
Considering a University exchange program in Spain has become a popular choice with students the world over as there is a wide range of both Spanish State and private international schools that can be chosen from. Simply ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Nov 2009
In order to come to Spain as a student, all non-EU Citizens are required to apply for a student visa. The type that you should apply for depends on how long your study program lasts for. This will also entitle you to apply ... more
Updated: Mon 9th Nov 2009
Same-sex marriages were made legal in Spain in June of 2005, whereby all civil marriage in Spain now allow homosexual couples the same legal, adoption and inheritance rights as heterosexual couples. ... more
Updated: Mon 9th Nov 2009
The Spanish Banking system has become much more receptive to awarding Business start up loans over the last few years, and whilst it’s fair to say that the process has become much easier, don’t expect a loan to be as easy to ... more
Updated: Mon 9th Nov 2009
The Spanish baccalaureate (also known as the "bachillerato") programme consists of two years’ voluntary study after the age of 16, which prepares pupils for higher education or high-grade vocational training or to start a ... more
Updated: Mon 9th Nov 2009
If you’re searching for that special holiday home in Spain, you may want to consider thinking about various schemes that provides sole occupancy of a property for a number of weeks each year as opposed to buying the property ... more
Updated: Mon 9th Nov 2009
If you have been lucky enough to find employment working for a UK registered company in Spain – or even if your current employer is relocating you from the UK to Spain, you need to be aware of the implications ... more
Updated: Sat 7th Nov 2009
What is IVA in Spain? IVA or Impuestos sobre el Valor Añadido, put simply, is the UK equivalent of VAT and is applied to pretty much everything you buy ... more
Updated: Sat 7th Nov 2009
Confusing even at the best of times, a country's legal and judical system can seem a complicated web made up of many different entities with separate ( and often seemingly conflicting ) areas of responsibility – we will do ... more
Updated: Mon 28th Sep 2009
A Cédula de Habitabilidad (Spanish term for a Certificate of Occupancy) is a certificate required by Spanish law in order to try and regulate conditions relating to Health and safety in any building to be used for housing ... more
Updated: Tue 22th Sep 2009
Spain has two completely different Government Agencies that are responsible for the registration of your property: The Cadastre and The Registro de la Propiedad. As such you, or your Lawyer needs to ensure that your Property ... more
Updated: Tue 22th Sep 2009
Recently the Spanish Coastal Protection Law has stirred again, which raises a question mark over the whole issue of the legality (and sense) in buying a coastal property in Spain. The recent changes made apply to the ... more
Updated: Thu 10th Sep 2009
Moving abroad can be a mammoth task, and the success is in the planning. You might want to print off and keep this page to ensure that you have considered every aspect of your moving and your new live abroad ... more
Updated: Wed 9th Sep 2009
It is always useful to be familiar with various words and phrases that can occur wherever and whenever you are faced with any kind of bureaucracy in Spain. You might want to print our this page and keep it with your legal ... more
Updated: Thu 3rd Sep 2009
If you are planning a move to Spain you can not take for granted that it will be easy to find work – it won’t ! - But you can be prepared ... more
Updated: Thu 3rd Sep 2009
The proceedure of selling your car in Spain is not as simple as you might think - find out how to avoid the pitfalls ... more
Updated: Wed 2th Sep 2009
Find out if you have any entitlement to claim for a disablity allowance to help you make a new life for yourself in Spain ... more
Updated: Tue 1st Sep 2009
Spain is a fantastic place to study, and hosts numerous noted Universities - learn how to apply to study abroad as an undergraduate ... more
Updated: Sat 29th Aug 2009
Any new buyer of a second hand Spanish vehicle in Spain is automatically liable for the outstanding debt attached to vehicle. This could be unpaid road tax from previous years, traffic or parking fines and even outstanding ... more
Updated: Fri 28th Aug 2009
Any new business in Spain would be wise to take advantage of all grants and incentives that they qualify for and are available to them. In theory at least – there is a reasonable amount of financial assistance available ... more
Updated: Fri 28th Aug 2009
Caravaning is very British hobby, and one that is particuarly suited to the Spanish climate, however, after being here for 6 months you will need to think about legally registering your caravan in Spain ... more
Updated: Sun 23rd Aug 2009
Bringing a cheap run-around over from the UK is the easy bit - but what happens when the car reaches the end of it's useful life ? ... more
Updated: Sat 22th Aug 2009
Anybody that has spent time driving on Spanish roads will know of the Micro-Car, and curse them - especially when stuck behind one whilst driving on a narrow road when your'e in a rush ... more
Updated: Tue 18th Aug 2009
Whatever your reasons for wanting to rent out your property in Spain, you need to be aware of the correct process and procedures to protect yourself from 'questionable' Agents and Tenants alike.. ... more
Updated: Mon 17th Aug 2009
It's time to take responsibility and realise that the only person who can learn a language for you is yourself ! ... more
Updated: Sun 16th Aug 2009
If you are living here legally it is your right as a European citizen to vote in Spanish Elections ... more
Updated: Sat 15th Aug 2009
Buying Off-Plan deffinately has many advantages - however,to succesfully buy a dream property you need to research and plan the entire proceedure .. ... more
Updated: Fri 14th Aug 2009
As of July 1st 2009 new legistlation opens up the market with regards to the supply of electricity and enabling consumers to change electricity suppliers.. ... more
Updated: Thu 13th Aug 2009
What is a Denuncia, when would I make one and how would I do this ? ... ... more
Updated: Wed 12th Aug 2009
To an outsider the traditions and procedures surrounding the various Spanish lotteries may seem complex and confusing. It doesn't have to be that way ! ... more
Updated: Sun 9th Aug 2009
You would be surprised how many people this issue relates to. Although there is no requirement for anybody to make a Spanish Will, by having one you will ensure a cost effective means of simplifying the handling of your ... more
Updated: Wed 15th Jul 2009
For many of us, the dream of living in Spain will mean the open Countryside - Far from the Madding Crowd : Peace and Tranquility over Neighbours and Mains services. However, the practicalities of getting your project off the ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Jul 2009
Your checklist when moving to Spain! Print a copy out and keep it to hand.. ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Jul 2009
A frequent question asked by motorists of a foreign nationality in Spain is reagrds to the ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos), or the roadworthiness test of a motor vehicle in Spain, which is the equivalent of an MOT in ... more
Updated: Fri 17th Apr 2009
There are currently a variety of different types of company classifcations in Spain and you need to give some thought to which will suit you best for Tax purposes, aswell as for other legal and financial reasons. You should ... more
Updated: Fri 17th Apr 2009
Whether you are Buying a property, setting up a Business here or just looking to get the best possible advise on how to conduct matters in Spain, it is always important to know who and where to turn for the best possible ... more
Updated: Fri 17th Apr 2009
Despite what the scaremonger would have you believe , not everybody who may struggle from time to time to meet their mortgage repayments will fall victim to having their property repossessed - especially if your property is ... more
Updated: Thu 16th Apr 2009
Sooner or later it will happen to most of us – whether you live here in Spain on a permenant basis, visiting relatives, or just here on Holiday ... more
Updated: Thu 16th Apr 2009
If it is not possible for you to wait to make an appointment your registered GP, there are other ways to seek treatment for your condition ... more
Updated: Thu 16th Apr 2009
If you own property in Spain ( or have assets in Spain ) and are a resident here it is advisable to have a Spanish will (testamento) made. This will avoid any complications in having a will from another country recognised ... more
Updated: Thu 16th Apr 2009
The Communidad Valencia Regional Government passed a law to speed urban development in 1994. Whilst the law was largely well intentioned it has become controversial for it's abuses by various Ayuntamientos and Developers ... more
Updated: Thu 16th Apr 2009
As soon as you decide to start the buying process in Spain it is always recommended that a Spanish speaking Lawyer acts on your behalf. Regardless of the cost it can often be the case that they will save you a lot of money ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
It can be a little confusing to most newcomers to Spain, that there are three separate Police Forces that operate, with varying responsibilities ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
Although the Taxes in Spain are comparatively lower than in the UK , they can often be much more complex and need to be be understood if you are to remain on the right side of the law ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
When buying a house in spain it is important to give some thought to the taxes you will have to pay. Of course, as in the uk, there are also on-going costs and taxes to consider and these will largely depend upon the overall ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
If you are living in spain and wish to start your own business here, you need to register as self employed (autonomo) for income tax and social security reasons. many small businesses also prefer that their staff are ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
It is a rarely spoken truth that a high number of those moving overseas to start a new life, will move back to the UK due to Legal, Financial or Personal reasons after a given period of time. Not everybody is suited to the ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
Births must be registered within eight days at the local civil registry office (Registro Civil). It is the parents' responsibility to ensure this is done and it must be carried out in person ( As opposed to On-line or By ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
If you have relocated to Spain and have a baby it is compulsory for you to register the birth with the Spanish authorities. This can be done at the Civil Register Office nearest to the place of birth of the child by one of ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
When relocating to Spain with children, one of the difficult decisions that you have to make concerns their schooling. Any choices that you make will impact on your child's future and may determine a very different outcome ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
There are two types of rentals in Spain: Short term and long term. Short term rentals are basically Holiday Lets and the contract is headed with the phrase "Por Temporada", which literally means "seasonal". Long term rental ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
Regardless of your nationality, you are required to prove your resident or non-resident status when you wish to open a bank account in Spain ... more
Updated: Sun 12th Apr 2009
What does it do , Why do I need one and How do I Apply for one ? ... more
Updated: Sat 11th Apr 2009
Inheritance Tax in Spain is always in the minds of those who own property and at first glance the law seems very complicated and it's often the case that most people simply stick their heads in the sand, ignore it altogether ... more
Updated: Tue 7th Apr 2009
The law in Spain states that you are required to register your Vehicle with Spanish plates within 6 months of bringing it into the country ... more
Updated: Tue 7th Apr 2009
A maximum of five pets may accompany you on your journey to Spain. All dogs & cats (and even ferrets!) must have a microchip OR registration number tattooed on the inside of their ear before they can enter the country. A ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Whilst it is not strictly necessary to exchange your UK Licence for a Spanish one, you may find it more convenient to do so ... ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
As soon as you apply for your Mortgage in Spain, it is important to have copies of all relevant documents with you. As an employee you need a copy of your passport, the payslips and the bank statements from the last three ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
The National Institute of Social Security (Spanish acronym is INSS) is the body that recognizes the right to Social Security Health Care. They have a network of offices throughout Spain that are denominated CAISS (Centres of ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
There are often two different types of birthing centres in Spain. The first are private hospitals or clinics.
The second are state hospitals, which ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Whilst all EU nationals have the right to find employment in spain without a work permit, finding employment may not prove to be easy if you are outside of the major towns and cities, or away from the tourist hotspots and do ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
It is possible to arrange civil or religious marriages between two foreigners or a foreigner and a Spanish national provided that all of the required Paperwork is taken care of. In addition, the Spanish Government is ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Infuriating to many Spanish and British alike, Spain seems to close down completely for a Fiesta and it is often impossible to get anything done - quite often nobody seems to know exactly when many of the Fiestas are! ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Employment in Spain is regulated strictly - the main purpose being to protect the rights of the Employee. It’s important both as an employer or employee to be aware of the different types of work contracts, holiday ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Assuming you have now either legally imported your UK Car or Purchased a Spanish Car over here, you will need to familiarise your self with the law with regards to driving over here in Spain ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
It is only relatively recently that Divorce has been legal in Spain, and even now it is not an easy path for troubled relationships to persue. In many cases divorce is so expensive and such a legal minefield, that there are ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
A Spanish State pension may be payable to those foreigners who have made more than the minimum social security payments required to qualify. In most cases this is 15 years.
Each EU country adds together the insurance ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
The social security system in spain is similar to the UK. You pay your contributions every month, and that entitles you to a pension, unemployment benefit, sick pay, maternity pay and the right to receive free healthcare ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
You may not be aware, but claiming UK benefits in Spain is a very real possibility for some UK ex-pats in certain circumstances ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Sometimes it is easier just to buy an existing business rather than to go through the whole process of setting a up a Business Yourself from the very begining, and in many cases start to build up a customer base. Depending ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Information on how, as a foreigner in Spain, you can buy a new or used car. Information includes information on what forms to fill out and how to find your local traffic department (Jefatura de Trafico) ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Not a nice subject - but one which will be much less painful if you are at least aware of the procedure in Spain ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
Banks in Spain often provide a more personal and friendly service than those in the UK. Staff changes are not so frequent, they are encouraged to establish a personal relationship with the clients and the manager is often on ... more
Updated: Wed 11th Mar 2009
On 10 July 2012 the Spanish Government introduced details of the new residency requirements for all EU citizens, including British nationals ... more