Frequently Asked Questions...

WHAT IF I WANT TO LIVE IN SPAIN?
Certainly this might be an excellent decision and surely a healthier one, not only because of the much warmer climate all year round, but also because of the slower pace of life. Life in Spain will be different to the life you might have been used to before, as everything here is regarded from a more tranquil point of view, which makes life healthier due to less stress. Last but not least, the thought of less environmental pollution and better air quality makes it appear a very good idea to come and live over here, not only for people suffering under certain health disorders. So what do you have to do, if you want to live in Spain on a permanent basis? If you intend to spend more than six months physically present in Spain during one calendar year, you will be required to become a Spanish Resident. BUT: If you intend to spend no more than 103 days at one time in Spain, then you are free to do so without formalities! Let us remind you that if your stay will be longer you will need a residence permit that allows you to live full time. In that matter Spain is no exception at all, as even in other European countries "free circulation has not become the norm yet".

HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE RESIDENCE CARD (PERMIT)?
You will need the following: Your passport and one complete photocopy of your passport. Evidence of Medical insurance (please note this for persons of non-retirement age, we will deal with pensioners later ). Proof that you receive a regular income or have investment capital providing a regular income ( this will sometimes need to be translated). If your marital status is married you will be asked to provide an original marriage certificate and one photocopy. You will be asked to pay a small amount, at present 6.00 € ( approx. 4 Pound Sterling ) for your Spanish state paper. Four recent, passport size photos. You make your application at the local police station "Policia Nacional ", at the Foreigners Department: "Departamento para Extranjeros" and all the forms are also available in English. We would strongly suggest that you first spend some time in the place of your choice, as you have got 3 months (103 days) and then go through all the necessary formalities.

WHAT IF I WANT TO WORK IN SPAIN?
There are two types of work permits existing, one for self employed: (AUTONOMO) and one for employees: (CUENTA AJENA). The same applies as in the UK according to the EU regulations of 1st January 1992 that require that all EU citizens looking for work in Spain must be treated equal as Spaniards. What you should do, when you first arrive in Spain is to go to the Local office of the National Employment Institute (INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE EMPLEO). CUENTA AJENA-being employed by another, that is the simple translation (on another persons account ). You will need to bring in your legal work contract (given by your employer) plus a photocopy. You will also need your passport, four extra photographs + photocopy + 6.00€ (approx. 4 Pound Sterling) for your papers. The first work permit will be for 6 month and will be automatically renewed after every five years. (As long as there will be no new changes with the EU regulations)

WHAT IF I WANT TO START A BUSINESS IN SPAIN?
As Spain's tourist industry is still growing there is much to do in it's commercial development and consumer industries. So it can be said that there are good opportunities for setting up or buying a business not only because as Spain being a relatively new member in the EU is still benefiting from the extra cash from Brussels and also from a booming economy. Of course as for the new start of any business you should carefully consider the type of it and set it up in an area in which you already have knowledge and expertise. After the consideration of the market place and the final decision about which market to go for, you should make sure that you have proper financial backing, to avoid any type of unexpected surprises. AUTONOMO- Self employed Depending on what type of business you intend to set up the paperwork's and formalities required, do vary. If it is your wish to set up a professional practice i.e. medicine, dentistry, architecture, etc. The originals of all your titles and degrees should also come from an EU recognised body. Any business no matter if a professional practice or a bar will need a business licence (IMPUESTO DE ACTIVIDADES ECONOMICAS). The registration with the Social Security as self employed person will be needed. The fees of self employed workers are approx. 160.00 € per month (122 Pound Sterling) depending on sex and age. The Social Security entitles you to state medical treatment and a pension after 15 years. As with the above mentioned your passport plus photocopy , four extra photographs and 6.00€, for your state papers will also be required. Your future place of work, office, surgery etc. will need a municipal opening licence (LICENCIA DE APERTURA). In Spain it is usual to provide a so called GESTOR /Tax accountant to carry out all the steps mentioned here. A GESTOR will charge you a small amount monthly but will take all the hassle and inconveniences out of your way and gets all your legal paperwork organized in return.

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