Spain is undoubtedly the most favourable place for retirees because of the affordable housing, calming weather, and closely-knit communities. These reasons are enough for retirees to get the Spanish retirement visa as soon as possible and spend their days strolling on the sun-soaked beaches.
Wondering how to move to Spain from Australia? We will dive into that as well. Keep reading!
Why Spain? Top Reasons Australians Are Moving
Here are some of the reasons workers are leaving Australia for Spain and building their lives.
1. Affordable Cost of Living
Rent and property prices are generally lower in Spain, especially if you don’t live in a bustling metropolitan city. There are diverse local produce and affordable dining options that lower the cost of living further.
2. Relaxed Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance
Spain has both fast-paced urban cities and laid-back coastal towns. It offers retirees and remote workers the perfect balance of both worlds. Plus, Spain’s culture prioritizes leisure, family, and socializing, so you can work without getting burnt out.
3. World’s Best Healthcare System
Spain’s healthcare system ranks as one of the best in the world. They offer free or low-cost access for all legal residents, including expats as well. The medications are subsidized, which lowers the expenses for retirees.
Best Spanish Visa Options for Retirees: Non-Lucrative Visa
If you are seeking residence in Spain after retirement, the non-lucrative visa is the most suitable one for you.
Just complete the following Spain non-lucrative visa income requirements in 2025, and you will be eligible to get the visa.
- Your income should be €2,400 per month or €28,800 per year, and you should have verified documents for it.
- Criminal background check from home country.
- Valid health insurance
- Bank statements, pension statements, and rental agreements (if applicable).
Why Retire in Spain? Perks and Benefits
Spain is the haven for expats due to several reasons, including,
- Festivals like La Tomatina, tapas culture, and siestas promote a relaxed pace.
- Beaches, hiking (Camino de Santiago), golf, and skiing in the Sierra Nevada attract adventurous souls from all around the world.
- Extensive high-speed rails, buses, and metros make transportation easy and quick.
- Low crime rates and a stable political environment enhance peace of mind for families.
- Friendly locals, expat clubs, and cultural integration opportunities reduce isolation for retirees.
Key Mistakes to Avoid When Relocating to Spain
Relocating from Australia to Spain can be overwhelming, and it causes people to make some errors in documentation and travel processes. Here are some of the biggest mistakes when moving to Spain and how to avoid them.
1/ Making assumptions about the visa requirements and rules.
Solution: Research visa options early and consult immigration experts.
2/ Not estimating the expenses correctly.
Solution: Understand the regional cost differences before making any decision about renting a house.
3/ Not learning Spanish and solely relying on English.
Solution: Take classes pre-move or use apps to develop Spanish-speaking skills.
4/ Mishandling taxes and having confusion in understanding the process.
Solution: Consult a tax advisor to optimize obligations.
5/ Overlooking summer heatwaves or winter chills in inland areas.
Solution: Prioritize homes with AC/heating and research microclimates before moving to Spain.