Spain

For many years, Spain has remained one of the most popular European countries for relocation, whether for living by the sea or for long-term settlement. Its mild climate, well-developed infrastructure, and relatively affordable cost of living attract thousands of foreigners, including Ukrainians.

However, behind this attractive picture lie real challenges: a complex legalization process, high unemployment, and slow administrative procedures. That is why, before moving, it is important not only to weigh the pros but also to understand all the nuances of life in the country.

Pros and Cons of Living in Spain

Spain attracts people with its mild climate, relaxed pace of life, and access to the sea, but moving here has its own unique challenges that are often underestimated. Before relocating, it is important to realistically assess both the advantages and the difficulties of life in the country.

Advantages of living in Spain

• A warm climate and plenty of sunny days throughout the year
• Well-developed infrastructure and high-quality healthcare
• Relatively affordable living costs compared to other Western European countries
• The opportunity to live by the sea even without a high income (in small towns)
• Diverse regions: from major cities to quiet coastal towns
• High-quality food and Mediterranean cuisine

Disadvantages of living in Spain

• High unemployment rate, especially among foreigners
• Complex and lengthy bureaucracy during the legalization process
• Low wages compared to Northern European countries
• Difficulty finding a job without knowledge of the Spanish language
• Seasonal nature of work in many regions
• Slow pace of life and administrative processes (siesta, lines, delays)

What differences should you consider before moving to Spain

Moving to Spain is significantly different from moving to other EU countries, and many nuances only become apparent after arrival. To avoid disappointment, it is important to understand the specifics of local life and the system in advance.

Spain moves at a slower pace than countries in Central or Northern Europe. Many government and even private institutions operate on a reduced schedule, and in some regions, the siesta tradition still persists. This means that resolving any administrative issues may take longer than expected.

Another important feature is the complex legalization system. Even if you have grounds for residency, the paperwork process can drag on for months. It is often necessary to make an appointment with the authorities in advance, and available dates may only be available in a few weeks or even months.

The labor market in Spain also has its own specific characteristics. The unemployment rate here is higher than in most EU countries, and many jobs are seasonal, especially in tourism and the service sector. Without knowledge of Spanish, job options are significantly limited.

At the same time, the region matters greatly. Madrid and Barcelona offer more career opportunities, but living costs are significantly higher.

It is cheaper to live in smaller cities and on the coast, but there are fewer job opportunities.

How to Move to Spain: Ways to Legalize Your Status

To live in Spain legally, you must obtain the appropriate residency status. The choice of option depends on the purpose of your move—work, study, or long-term residence without employment.

Main ways to legalize your status:

1. Temporary protection – available to Ukrainians, grants the right to reside and work

2. Work visa – processed through an employer, but harder to obtain due to competition

3. Student visa – allows you to reside in the country and work part-time

4. Non-lucrative residence permit – for those with sufficient income who do not plan to work in Spain

5. Arraigo (social or labor) – a way to legalize status after a certain period of residence in the country

6. Family reunification – for those whose close relatives already have legal status

In most cases, the legalization process in Spain can take several months, and an appointment to submit documents often needs to be booked in advance.

Documents for moving to Spain

The set of documents depends on the chosen method of legalization, but the basic list remains similar for most cases.

Main documents:

• Passport
• Proof of residence
• Health insurance
• Proof of financial means
• Application form and registration documents
• Photos in the required format
• Certificate of no criminal record

Most documents must be translated into Spanish, officially certified, and apostilled.

Cost of living in Spain in 2026

The cost of living in Spain varies significantly by region: expenses are much higher in Madrid and Barcelona, while in smaller cities and in the south of the country, living costs are considerably lower. The largest portion of the budget is rent, which can account for more than half of all expenses.

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the center of major cities in 2026 typically ranges from 1,200 to 1,700 euros per month, and in certain neighborhoods, it can exceed these figures. On average across the country, prices are lower—approximately 600–1,050 euros depending on location. In mid-sized cities such as Valencia or Seville, housing costs around 500–800 euros, and in smaller cities, 350–600 euros.

Utilities typically amount to about €100–150 per month for a standard apartment. Food expenses average around €300–400 per person, and a household’s total grocery budget can exceed €4,000 per year.

Transportation and mobile communication remain relatively affordable: a single ride on public transportation costs from €1.50, and monthly expenses for communication and internet typically do not exceed €50–100.

As a result, basic expenses for one person amount to approximately 1,200–1,800 euros per month, while a comfortable standard of living ranges from 1,500–2,000 euros depending on the city and lifestyle.

Salaries and the Labor Market in Spain in 2026

The labor market in Spain differs significantly from that of Central European countries. Despite the high standard of living, the country has one of the highest unemployment rates in the EU—around 11–12%, and this figure is even higher among young people. This means that competition for jobs is quite fierce, especially for foreigners.

The minimum wage in 2026 is approximately 1,134 euros per month (14 payments per year), which is equivalent to roughly 1,300–1,400 euros when calculated over 12 months. The average gross salary is around €2,000–2,200, which amounts to approximately €1,500–1,700 “take-home pay” depending on the region and taxes.

In the service sector, tourism, and warehousing, salaries typically range from €1,200 to €1,600. In construction and technical fields, earnings can reach €1,800 to €2,500. In IT, finance, and engineering, salaries are significantly higher and often exceed €3,000.

It is important to note that many jobs in Spain are seasonal, especially in tourist regions. Additionally, without knowledge of Spanish, employment opportunities are significantly limited, and English is often insufficient.

How to find a job in Spain?

Job hunting in Spain often takes longer than in Central European countries, so it’s best to start before moving. Many positions are filled through personal connections or local contacts, so being physically present in the country also significantly increases your chances of finding employment.

The greatest opportunities are concentrated in major cities—Madrid and Barcelona—as well as in tourist regions, where service sector workers are regularly needed. At the same time, it is harder to find work in smaller cities, although competition is lower there.

The hiring process usually involves submitting a resume, an interview, and signing a contract. However, it is important to note that employers in Spain are not always willing to hire foreigners without an existing residence permit, so legalization often becomes a key factor in the job search.

The most popular resources for job searching:

• infojobs.net
• linkedin.com
• indeed.es
• infoempleo.com
• local recruitment agencies

It is important to vet the employer before signing a contract and avoid informal employment, as this can create legalization issues in the future.

The best cities in Spain to live in

Choosing a city in Spain directly impacts costs, employment opportunities, and lifestyle.

Conditions can vary significantly across different regions of the country, so it’s important to consider not only prices but also the job market.

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most popular cities for expats thanks to its combination of the sea, developed infrastructure, and international atmosphere. There are many job openings in tourism, services, and IT, but it also has one of the highest costs of living in the country. Rent often exceeds 1,200–1,500 euros, and competition for jobs is quite high.

Madrid

Madrid is the capital and main economic hub of Spain. It offers the most career opportunities, particularly in finance, business, and international companies. At the same time, the cost of living is also high, although the job market is more stable than in tourist regions. Madrid is ideal for those focused on a long-term career.

Valencia

Valencia is considered one of the best cities for value for money. Rent is lower here (averaging 700–1,000 euros), the climate is pleasant, and competition is less intense than in Barcelona or Madrid. It’s a popular choice among expats who want to live by the sea without breaking the bank.

Alicante

Alicante is a quiet coastal city with more affordable housing and a slower pace of life. It’s suitable for those who work remotely or are looking for a cheaper place to live. At the same time, there are fewer job opportunities here, especially outside the tourist season.

Malaga

Malaga is rapidly developing as a tech and tourism hub. More and more international companies are setting up shop here, and the climate and quality of life attract expats. The cost of living is lower than in Barcelona, but housing prices have been gradually rising in recent years.

Healthcare System and Insurance in Spain

Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in Europe, but access to free healthcare depends on residency status and formal employment.

Public healthcare (Sistema Nacional de Salud) is available to those who are formally employed and pay social security contributions. In this case, most medical services, including doctor’s visits and treatment, are covered by the system.

For foreigners without formal employment or who are in the process of obtaining residency, private health insurance is mandatory. It is also required to obtain certain types of visas, such as the residencia no lucrativa or a student visa.

The cost of private health insurance in Spain is typically around 40–100 euros per month, depending on age, coverage, and the insurance company. Such policies usually cover basic medical services, consultations, and partial treatment.

It is important to note that without insurance, access to medical care may be limited or require payment, and the cost of individual services can be quite high. That is why health insurance is one of the key elements of preparing for your move.

What to Do Immediately After Moving to Spain

Upon arrival in Spain, it is important to complete the basic formalities as soon as possible, as your legal residency, ability to work, and access to services depend on this. Many procedures have strict deadlines, so you shouldn’t delay them.

Key steps after moving:

1. Obtain an NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)

2. Register your residence (empadronamiento)

3. Obtain health insurance or confirm access to the public healthcare system

4. Open a bank account

5. Find a doctor and register with the healthcare system

6. Obtain work documents or confirm your residency status

Moving to Spain in 2026 could be a good decision for those seeking a comfortable climate and a more relaxed lifestyle, but it requires careful preparation. It is important to assess costs, employment opportunities, and legalization options in advance, as these factors determine how comfortable life in the country will be. Spain is not for everyone, but with the right approach and planning, it can become a place for long-term residence.

Visit Ukraine is a reliable information portal that compiles up-to-date information on life, travel, and relocation to Spain. Here you will find all the necessary information: from entry requirements and document processing to costs, employment, and health insurance, regardless of whether you are planning a short trip, a temporary stay, or a full-scale move.