Moving to Spain
Everything You Need to Know
Spain has been one of the most popular destinations for Dutch people emigrating for years. The climate, lower cost of living and relaxed lifestyle attract thousands of families and retirees every year. But an international move requires proper preparation.
What Does Moving to Spain Cost?
Costs depend on volume, distance and the chosen transport method:
| Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Small move (10-15 m3) | €2,000 - €3,500 |
| Average move (20-30 m3) | €3,500 - €5,500 |
| Large move (40-60 m3) | €5,500 - €9,000 |
| Part load (shared) | €1,500 - €3,000 |
| Individual items (car, motorbike) | €800 - €1,500 |
Prices are indicative and depend on the exact delivery address in Spain. Moving to the Canary Islands is more expensive due to sea freight.
Transport Options
There are several ways to transport your belongings to Spain:
Road transport (truck)
The most popular option. Your belongings go by truck via France to Spain. Delivery time: 3-5 working days. Ideal for complete moves.
Advantages
- Fast delivery
- Door-to-door service
- Suitable for large volumes
Disadvantages
- -More expensive for small loads
- -Dependent on traffic conditions
Part load (groupage)
Your items share a truck with other moves to the same region. Cheaper, but you need to be flexible with the delivery date.
Advantages
- More affordable
- Suitable for smaller volumes
- More environmentally friendly
Disadvantages
- -Longer delivery time (1-3 weeks)
- -Less flexible on dates
Sea container
For large volumes or moves to the islands (Balearic Islands, Canary Islands). The container goes by ship to a Spanish port.
Advantages
- Suitable for large volumes
- Necessary for islands
- Everything at once
Disadvantages
- -Longer delivery time (2-4 weeks)
- -Collection from port needed
Customs and Paperwork
Good news: moving to Spain as an EU citizen is relatively straightforward. But there are things to arrange:
No import duties
Within the EU, you pay no import duties on personal belongings. You don't need to pay customs clearance fees.
Apply for NIE number
The NIE (Numero de Identidad de Extranjero) is your Spanish identification number. You need this for almost everything: opening a bank account, buying property, registering a car.
Empadronamiento
After arrival, you register at the town hall (ayuntamiento) of your new city. This is called empadronamiento and is mandatory.
Register at the consulate
Register with the Dutch consulate in your region. This is useful for passport renewal and emergencies.
Arrange health insurance
If you work in Spain, you fall under the Spanish health system. As a retiree, you can use the S1 form to access Spanish healthcare.
Prepare an inventory list
Make a detailed list of all items you're taking. This may be requested during checks and helps with your insurance.
Popular Regions for Dutch Expats
Where in Spain is the best place to live? The most popular regions among Dutch residents:
Costa del Sol (Malaga)
The favourite of many Dutch people. More than 300 days of sunshine per year, good flight connections with the Netherlands and a large Dutch community. Popular places: Marbella, Fuengirola, Mijas.
Costa Blanca (Alicante)
Affordable, sunny and popular with retirees. The area around Alicante and Torrevieja has many Dutch and Belgian residents. Lower property prices than the Costa del Sol.
Barcelona and surroundings
For those who love city life. Barcelona combines culture, beach and vibrant nightlife. More expensive than the coastal regions. Popular with young professionals and entrepreneurs.
Valencia
A middle ground between Barcelona and the Costa Blanca. Cheaper than Barcelona, but with the same combination of city and beach. Increasingly popular with digital nomads.
How NOBL relo. Helps You
We have been handling international moves to Spain for years. Here's what you can expect from us:
- Free inventory assessment and tailored quote
- Professional packing service (optional)
- Road transport or part load, to any region
- Door-to-door service, including unloading and placement
- Insured per our terms and conditions
- Help preparing an inventory list
- Experience with all Spanish regions and islands
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a move to Spain take?
For road transport, expect 3-5 working days. Part loads take 1-3 weeks, depending on the route and availability. Sea containers take 2-4 weeks.
Do I need to pay import duties when moving to Spain?
No, as an EU citizen you pay no import duties on personal belongings. Your moving goods are exempt. An inventory list is recommended though.
Can I take my car to Spain?
Yes, you can have your car transported. After arrival, you have 6 months to register the car with Spanish plates. We can arrange the transport of your car.
Do you also move to the Canary Islands?
Yes, to all Spanish islands. The Canary Islands require sea freight, which takes longer and costs more. We discuss the options during the survey.
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Moving to Spain? We'll Handle It
From packing in the Netherlands to unloading in Spain. Experienced movers, door-to-door service and insured per our terms and conditions.
- Door-to-door to all of Spain
- Experienced international movers
- Insured per our terms
- Help with paperwork