We aim to provide you with clear and helpful information. If you have further questions, please feel free to reach out to us!

1. 1. Immigration and Visas

   • Q: What types of visas are available for relocating to Spain? A: Spain offers several visa options for non-EU citizens, including:

     • Golden Visa (for property investors)

     • Non-lucrative Visa (for retirees or those with sufficient passive income)

     • Work Visa

     • Student Visa

     • Family Reunification Visa

   • Q: How long does the visa application process take? A: The processing time can vary depending on the type of visa and your country of origin. Generally, it takes 2-3 months from application to approval. We recommend starting the process at least 6 months before your planned move to allow for any unforeseen delays.

   2. Real Estate and Property

   • Q: Can non-residents buy property in Spain? A: Yes, non-residents can purchase property in Spain. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership. However, you'll need to obtain a foreign identification number (NIE) to complete the transaction.

   • Q: What are the additional costs associated with buying property in Spain? A: In addition to the property price, you should budget for:

     • Property Transfer Tax (6-10% depending on the region)

     • Notary fees (0.5-1% of the purchase price)

     • Land Registry fees (0.4-0.5% of the purchase price)

     • Legal fees (1-2% of the purchase price) Our team can provide a detailed breakdown of costs for your specific situation.

   3. Financial Planning and Taxes

   • Q: How are foreign residents taxed in Spain? A: If you reside in Spain for more than 183 days per year, you're considered a tax resident. Tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income. Spain has a progressive tax system, with rates ranging from 19% to 47% depending on your income level. We recommend consulting with our financial experts for personalized advice.

   • Q: Can I transfer my pension to Spain? A: Yes, it's possible to transfer your pension to Spain. However, the process and tax implications can be complex and vary depending on your home country and the type of pension. Our financial planning experts can help you navigate this process and optimize your pension strategy for your new life in Spain.

   4. Education and Healthcare

   • Q: What are the schooling options for expat children in Spain? A: Spain offers several options for expat children:

     • Public schools (free, instruction in Spanish)

     • Private schools (fee-paying, often bilingual)

     • International schools (fee-paying, instruction often in English or other languages) We can help you explore the best options in your chosen area based on your children's needs and your preferences.

   • Q: How does the healthcare system work for expats in Spain? A: Spain has a high-quality public healthcare system. EU citizens can access public healthcare using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU residents will need private health insurance as part of their visa requirements. Once you become a legal resident, you may be eligible to join the public healthcare system. We can assist you in understanding your healthcare options and finding suitable insurance if needed.

   5. Living in Spain

   • Q: What's the cost of living like in Spain compared to the US? A: Generally, the cost of living in Spain is lower than in many parts of the US, especially in terms of housing, food, and healthcare. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the specific location and lifestyle. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona tend to be more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas. We can provide more detailed cost comparisons based on your current location and intended destination in Spain.

   • Q: How can I integrate into the local community? A: Integration is key to a successful relocation. Some tips include:

     • Learning Spanish (or the local language like Catalan or Valencian)

     • Joining local clubs or associations

     • Participating in community events

     • Exploring local markets and restaurants Happy Homes offers post-relocation support, including introductions to expat communities and local social events to help you settle in.

   6. Happy Homes Services

   • Q: What services does Happy Homes offer? A: Happy Homes provides comprehensive relocation services, including:

     • Initial consultation and needs assessment

     • Legal advice on visas and immigration

     • Property search and acquisition assistance

     • Financial planning and tax optimization

     • Personal guidance

   • Q: How much do Happy Homes services cost? A: Our initial consultation and property finding services are offered at no cost to you. Legal and financial services cost may vary depending on the circunstances and service required, we may will discuss any potential fees upfront during our initial consultation.