Planning a big move to Spain? It’s an exciting adventure, but timing is key to ensuring a smooth transition. Whether you’re moving with family, taking a sabbatical, or embracing a new lifestyle, knowing when to take each step will help you avoid unnecessary stress.
To guide you through the process, here are the key deadlines and important steps to keep in mind when preparing for your move.
Two Major Deadlines to Consider
When planning your move, two important deadlines will shape your timeline:
1. School Applications
If you have children who will attend school in Spain, keep in mind that in Andalusia and most of Spain, school applications are due in March for the academic year starting in September. Since placement is often based on where you live, securing a rental early can help ensure your child is placed in a convenient and suitable school.
2. Visa Applications
Your visa application timeline depends on your intended arrival date. To determine when to apply:
- Work backward 120 days from your planned arrival.
- If you’re arriving in August, aim to apply in late April or early May.
- Visa approvals can take up to three months, and once granted, you must enter Spain within 90 days.
Starting early allows time for any unexpected delays. Some consulates process visas faster, but others take the full three months, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible within your eligibility window.
When to Start Gathering Visa Documents
Certain key documents—such as a criminal background check, birth and marriage certificates, and a health clearance—must be dated within 90 days of your application submission. That means:
- If you plan to submit your visa application in late April, you should start gathering these documents by February.
- Background checks from some countries take longer to process, so check your country’s requirements early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Some documents may need apostilles or official translations, which can add extra time.
Should You Secure Housing Before Applying for Your Visa?
This depends on your situation and your consulate’s requirements. There are two common approaches:
Option 1: Apply for Your Visa First, Then Find Housing
- This is the most flexible approach, allowing you to explore housing options after arrival.
- If your consulate does not require proof of accommodation, you can arrive first, explore different areas, and then choose a rental.
Option 2: Secure Housing First, Then Apply for Your Visa
- Some Spanish consulates require proof of accommodation for at least three months as part of the visa application.
- If this applies to you, you’ll need to secure a rental contract before submitting your visa application.
Before deciding, check with your specific consulate to confirm their exact requirements.
Finding Housing in Time for School Applications
If your children will be attending school, choosing a home first will help you narrow down school options. Ideally, you should:
- Start researching rental properties by early February.
- Aim to sign a lease before the school application deadline at the end of March.
- If school enrollment isn’t a concern, aim to secure a rental at least 6 to 8 weeks before submitting your visa application.
Some consulates require:
✔️ A signed rental contract
✔️ A nota simple (an official document proving property ownership)
Since landlords may need time to obtain a recent nota simple (which must be dated within 90 days of your application), factor that into your planning.
Challenges in Finding a Rental in Advance
Finding a rental months in advance can be tricky in Spain. Many landlords:
- Prefer to rent immediately rather than waiting months for a new tenant.
- List available properties on platforms like Idealista and Fotocasa, but these mostly show homes ready for immediate move-in.
- Are more responsive to phone calls than emails, which can be a challenge for those contacting agents from abroad.
This is why Your Year in Spain is here to help!
How We Can Help
Navigating the Spanish rental market and visa process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Your Year in Spain provides:
✅ Assistance in finding a long-term rental
✅ Guidance on visa requirements
✅ Support in meeting school and visa deadlines
✅ Help in making your move as stress-free as possible
