Moving to Spain from Canada
- 🔥 How to move to Spain from Canada?
- 👍 First steps before moving to Spain from Canada.
- ❤️ Visa options when immigrating to Spain from Canada
- 🔍 Steps After Moving to Spain as A Canadian
- ☎️ Can Canadians move to Spain?
- 🔍 Is it better to live in Spain or Canada?
- ☝️ How long can I live in Spain as a Canadian?
- 💻 Living in Spain vs Canada
- 🔍 How much money do I need to immigrate to Spain from Canada?
- ❤️ Do you want to move to Spain From another countries?
- ✅ How long can a Canadian stay in Spain?
- ☎️ Can Canadians live in Spain?
How to move to Spain from Canada?
Are you a Canadian dreaming of a new life in Spain? Moving to Spain from Canada can be an exciting adventure, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle. However, navigating the relocation process can seem daunting. At My Spain Visa, our team of expert immigration lawyers can help make your move to Spain from Canada a seamless and enjoyable experience. With our in-depth knowledge of visa requirements and extensive experience in assisting individuals with their relocation, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s embark on this journey together and discover how you can turn your dreams of living in Spain into a reality. Move to Spain from Canada with confidence, knowing that you have the support of our dedicated team of immigration experts. Contact us!
In today’s society, success is increasingly defined not by how much money one has in the bank or how many flashy possessions one has. By one’s access to the means to live a healthy and comfortable life, with time to pursue one’s passions, relax, and spend quality time with one’s loved ones. People are willing to give up some of their possessions for peace and the chance to slow down from the hectic pace of modern life.
In search of a more pleasant way of life, more and more individuals are moving to Barcelona from Canada. The primary routes to move to Spain from Canada are outlined with the benefits of living in Spain and comparing the two countries. To ensure that you move to Spain from Canada or move to Canada from Spain, you need to obtain a visa. In case you are considering moving from Canada to Spain, we’ve compiled some information you’ll find helpful.
Special mention should be made of the many young people who are moving from Canada to Spain because of the high housing prices and decide to study in Spain, Spanish or any other course in order to start a new life in Spain.
First steps before moving to Spain from Canada.
The first steps before coming to Spain as a Canadian is to consider what visa you need to obtain to be legally living in Spain, here you can see several visas that are the most used by Canadians, if you have any doubts you can contact us and we will explain the whole process to make your move to Spain a success.
Visa options when immigrating to Spain from Canada
Canadians interested in relocating to Spain have several possibilities for establishing temporary residency there. You need to obtain a visa when moving from Canada. The 4 most popular Spanish Visas are:
If you wish to move to Spain from Canada and not work, you’ll need to show proof of substantial financial resources.
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Individuals with a minimum of one million euros to deposit in a Spanish bank or can afford a home purchase of over half a million euros.
Those hoping to establish themselves professionally in Spain can apply for an Entrepreneur Visa.
This visa is intended for non-working retirees who wish to take advantage of Spain’s pleasant environment.
In Spain it is available to Canadians who have been temporary residents for 5 continuous years. After receiving permanent residency, a person can stay in the country indefinitely without worrying about running out of time.
If you have questions about the requirements for continuous stays in Spain, such as the types of absences that do not count as interruptions (such as for holidays or other valid reasons), please get in touch with one of our immigration lawyers now. If you’re a Canadian citizen looking to emigrate to Spain from Canada, we can help you with that process, too.
First Steps Upon Arrival in Spain
Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE/NIE)
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You are required to apply for a foreigner’s Identity Card or number within 30 days upon arrival in Spain at the local foreigners’ office or police stations. You’ll need this number to do administratively, like open an account, get paid, file taxes, buy a house, or acquire a driver’s license.
How to Apply for a Spanish Driver’s License
You, as a Canadian, need to get a Spanish driver’s license no later than six months after establishing residency in the country. You can use your Canadian license for up to six months before expiration. Six months later, you’ll have to enroll in driver’s ed and take the written and behind-the-wheel exams. After the initial 10-year period, license renewals are only required every 5 years.
Spanish Bank Account Opening
It is more convenient to open a resident bank account as a Canadian living continuously in Spain. You’ll need your passport, Foreigner’s ID, evidence of domicile, proof of employment, and verification of your social security number to create a bank account. Bankia, BBVA, La Caixa, and Santander are Spain’s Big Four banks.
Spanish medical care
Health care in Spain is among the best in Europe, and it’s free of charge. Nonetheless, visits to the dentist, rides in an ambulance or prescription drugs are not covered.
Several standards must be met for a Canadian living in Spain to be eligible for free healthcare.
- Anyone who contributes to the Social Security system, whether they are employed or self-employed
- A Spanish resident who receives government assistance
- A student under the age of 26 who is currently enrolled in a Spanish university
- Have an EHIC card and are visiting Spain
Steps After Moving to Spain as A Canadian
Canadians are welcome to visit Spain once they have applied for and received their visa. They must apply for a foreign ID and social security registration upon arrival. All foreign nationals visiting Spain for whatever reason, be it business, work, or pleasure, are required to obtain a foreigner identity number.
An N.I.E. application needs to be submitted to the Consular Post serving the applicant’s area of residence. Information on the international applicant and relevant background information will be included in the application.
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When Canadians move to Spain and stay for ten years, they are eligible to petition for citizenship. The waiting time for an application is shortened to one year when a Canadian citizen has married a Spanish national for at least a year.
Can Canadians move to Spain?
Canadians can move to Spain from Canada without a visa if they will be in Spain for less than 90 days. However, they do have to apply for a residence permit to live in Spain for more than 90 days. The procedure is fairly straightforward, and the application can be made by mail or online through the Spanish consulate website. Approval of your application takes about four months; however, it can take up to six months.
The cost of applying for a residence permit varies depending on whether you choose an online process or one that requires sending your documents by post.
Is it better to live in Spain or Canada?
Canada and Spain share several commonalities, like stunning landscapes, warm and welcoming people, and high-quality medical treatment. However, the lower cost in Spain, the availability of healthier food, and the warmer environment may appeal to Canadians eager to escape the cold.
In Spain , The average cost of living is 59% lower than in Canada. The most significant price discrepancies are for housing, food, alcohol, and child care, with gym memberships and electricity bills being quite similar.
How long can I live in Spain as a Canadian?
Visa requirements and duration of stay limits vary. A Canadian visitor to Spain can only stay for a maximum of 90 days without a visa. This period will extend to ninety days before they can return. You’ll need a special long-stay Visa if your visit lasts more than ninety days.
A foreign identity card and social security registration will be compulsory for all new arrivals to Spain. Please visit your nearest Consular Post to apply for your N.I.E. number (foreigner’s identification number). The 10-year residency requirement for applying for Spanish citizenship is reduced to 1-year if you are married to a Spanish native for at least that long.
Quality of Life in Spain
Aside from its rich history and culture, Spain’s most significant draw is its fantastic weather and stunning coastline. Of course, the Mediterranean coast isn’t the only place in Spain where summer never ends, but people who come here just for the weather know where to settle.
A bright climate of 320 days a year, combined with easy access to the sea and beautiful beaches, makes the Spanish coast a paradise for residents. This is why Costa Blanca, which boasts Spain’s most significant climate, is popular with newcomers. It’s no surprise that Alicante has consistently been Spain’s top province regarding the number of properties sold to foreign buyers.
It’s also worth noting that Valencia and Alicante were among the top places to live as an expat, and Spain was ranked as one of the top three nations to immigrate to. Also, Valencia topped the list of top cities for people who wish to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Barcelona made it into the world’s top ten most incredible places to live and create a business.
Living in Spain vs Canada
Embracing the Spanish Charms: Living in Spain
Spain, with its irresistible blend of sunny beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, stands out as an ideal destination for those seeking a truly immersive and enchanting lifestyle. The Mediterranean climate offers a year-round invitation to enjoy the outdoors, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse oneself in the local festivities. The Spanish people’s warmth and passion create an atmosphere that fosters deep connections and a sense of belonging. Spain’s affordability, especially in certain regions, allows for a comfortable existence without breaking the bank. The country’s central European location further opens doors to exploration and travel across neighboring countries. Choosing Spain means embracing a life that values relaxation, human connections, and embracing the present moment.
Spain’s Allure vs Canadian Challenges
In contrast, considering Canada as a potential home comes with a set of unique challenges. The diverse landscapes, from the majestic Rockies to the serene lakes, offer undeniable natural beauty. However, adapting to the fluctuating weather patterns across different regions can be a real adjustment. While Canada’s multicultural ethos is celebrated, integrating into this mosaic might require more effort due to the vastness of the country. The higher cost of living in major urban centers, coupled with potential healthcare wait times, can pose financial and logistical challenges. Moreover, the long and cold winters can test one’s tolerance for extreme weather conditions. While Canada’s stable economy and opportunities are undeniable, prospective residents need to weigh these benefits against the potential hurdles.
A Spanish Tale of Life Well Lived
In the grand narrative of life choices, Spain paints a vibrant canvas of experiences and connections. Its culture, weather, and embrace of leisure foster a sense of belonging and joy. Whether sipping sangria by the beach or participating in lively street festivals, Spain’s allure is hard to resist. If an adventure of passion, community, and immersive living speaks to you, then Spain beckons with open arms.
Ultimately, the decision between living in Spain or Canada will depend on your personal preferences, priorities, and individual circumstances. Our team of lawyers will help you through the whole process of moving to Spain without any problems.
How much money do I need to immigrate to Spain from Canada?
Read more on the minimum income required for residency in Spain in 2022. Below are the minimum income requirements for applying for a tourist or business visa to Spain. For example, the Golden/Investor visa can let you settle in Spain. Still, it requires you to put a significant amount of money into the country’s economy through property purchases or other investments.
The purchase of a house in Spain costing more than €500,000 has reportedly become a popular option for wealthy Canadian citizens to obtain Spanish citizenship.
Take a look at the income requirements for Spanish citizenship below. Non-Profit Visa Income Requirement for Citizenship in 2022 It’s vital to define “non-lucrative visa” and “its target audience” before discussing the income requirements for such a visa.
To extend their stay in Spain and the rest of the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, non-EU citizens need to obtain a non-lucrative visa.
It’s not possible to work in Spain on a non-profit visa initially, but you can do so for persons and companies outside the country. Visas can be renewed for up to five years total, with extensions of two years available after the first year. Once you’ve lived in Spain for five years, you’ll be eligible to apply for permanent residency, allowing you to work and market your business in the country legally.
The non-lucrative visa is frequently called a retirement visa; however, it is more beneficial for foreign nationals who can show they have sufficient resources to support themselves while living in Spain.
Due to the UK’s new status as a third nation, citizens who demonstrate they have sufficient money can often get Spanish resident status more quickly and easily through this route than any other.
You’ll need to produce authentic paperwork such as bank statements, business account statements, pension account statements, or other asset and investment documentation to prove that you can pay for college on your own.
For the non-profit visa in Spain in 2022, the minimal annual income is as follows.
Main Applicant
In 2022, the required income for the primary visa applicant is €600, which is 400% of the Spanish IPREM (Indicador Pblico de Renta de Efectos Mltiples). To meet this requirement, you must earn $2,316.08 per month in Euros or the foreign currency equivalent determined by law.
Family Members
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Additional monthly income equal to 100% of the IPREM, or €600, is required for each dependent child. Each responsible family member is entitled to receive the full IPREM benefit each month, which in 2022 amounts to €600 (or the legal equivalent in foreign currency).
Can I move to Spain with no job? work in spain as a canadian?
There is no requirement for having a job before relocating to Spain. That much is certain. However, you will still need to apply for any residency programme that does not specifically require it.
Relocating to Spain without a job offer can be a major hassle if you intend to find gainful employment in the nation. As we said before, one possible route to permanent residency is to obtain a Spanish work permit (for which you require a job offer).
However, there are other options for immigration, and employment isn’t always necessary. For instance, you can get a permit without finding work if you apply for a student visa, a non-lucrative Visa, or a golden visa.
The same holds if you marry a European Union citizen or reunite with family members who are already residents. Of course, if you want to work for a company in the country, you’ll need to get employment there first (as that is where the process starts).
Do you want to move to Spain From another countries?
Here are other guides similar to the Canadian guide for citizens of other countries:
How long can a Canadian stay in Spain?
If you go to Spain without any of the above mentioned visas as a Canadian you can only stay 90 days within each 180 days in the Schengen zone, where Spain is included.
Can Canadians live in Spain?
Yes, a Canadian can live in Spain without problems but he/she needs to obtain a Spanish visa. More and more Canadian retirees are retiring in Spain.
Do you want to live in Spain?
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Hi
I did send an email to the consulate of Spain in Toronto regarding moving to Spain but till now I haven’t received any answer
The consulate usually takes a long time to reply, if you need help with the process we will be happy to help you. You can contact us using the contact form.
We are a family of four my wife still in the work force myself I retired this year and two children 9 and 12
We are all Canadians and we would like to move to live in Spain
We are thinking of buying a farmhouse near a village or town so my wife can go to work as a hairstylist while my sons go to school and I like to work in the farm
We do have 200000 euros saving for the move and the house plus my retirement
Please advise of the best way to apply for visa
We can help you through the whole process, but we will need to know what visa you need to live in Spain. If you want you can send us an email and one of our lawyers will contact you.
Hello my name is Marko Rosic I’m interested to move to Spain Madrid live in Toronto Canada . Just need to know some information how it works or how to apply for residency
One of our lawyers has contacted you to explain the process of obtaining residency from Canada.
On the NLV, is the required passive income monthly income or must you have a certain amount sitting in a bank account permantly esp when you renew your residency?
You can see all the information and requirements for the non-lucrative visa in Spain, but if you want to move from Canada to Spain, you need to credit the minimum monthly amount mentioned or have savings in a bank account for the whole year.
Hi, my name is John from Canada,Ontario.I have been to Andalucia in 2019. I am thinking to move to Costa del Sol .What do I need in order to live in Andalucia ?
To live in Spain as a Canadian citizen, you need a Spanish visa. There are several visa options for Canadians but the most popular are:
Non lucrative visa, people who want to live in Spain but not work (retirees or people with passive income).
Golden visas, people who want to invest in Spain.
Digital nomad visa, people who want to work remotely for a company outside Spain.
Is the non lucrative visa different for Canadians than for latinoamericans?
Can I work after 1 year of having the non lucrative visa?
If after living in Spain for one year with the non-lucrative visa you can change to another type of visa… although we always recommend to renew the non-lucrative visa to have a margin of two years to apply for the new visa.
We are a retired couple from toronto, we want to sell our house and retire in malaga, can you help us with the visa? Since my wife and I are lost with the non-lucrative visa spain…. can you contact me, I want to move already from canada to spain! The prices in Canada are very expensive.