Planning your future life in Spain is both exciting and nerve-racking. Why can’t we ask them to give us the visa (we’ll be good citizens, promise) and escape all the bureaucracy because we deserve a peaceful life? It’d be a dream, but currently, all expats have to deal with the challenges that relocation to Spain brings. In this guide, we’ll cover some tips for moving to Spain. Let’s dive right into it.
Visas
Overall, there are three main visa types for a long-term stay in the country. Depending on your situation, look for these visas to Spain from Kenya.
Student visa
You can get a student visa to Spain from Kenya if:
- You’re enrolled in a full-time university program in Spain.
- You’re participating in an exchange program.
- You’re having research activities.
Tips for moving to Spain: Search for scholarships. They’re easier to get than most people think, and obtaining governmental support makes relocation to Spain much easier. You may get a full reimbursement of your expenses for studying, visa, and sometimes even rent. As you can see, it saves a lot of money for the Kenyan students abroad.
Another way to cut expenses while living in Spain as an expat is to send money back home with fast and beneficial Profee transfers. No hidden fees and unmatched rates, the best combo ever.
Work visa
If you’ve had enough university studies, consider getting a job in Spain. To move to Spain as a worker, you have to find a job before applying for a visa. It may take months, so don’t expect to secure a job quickly.
Tips for moving to Spain: Use your network. Finding a job may be quicker if you already know someone in Spain — ask them for assistance and build a strong network. If you have no such acquaintances, search for the Kenyan community chats and talk to people there.
For example, read about the required documents for a Schengen visa for Kenyas in our article.
EU Blue Card
For the top workers with relevant experience and achievements who want to move to Spain or another European country. Europe values professional workers and issues a set number of Blue Cards yearly. Apply only if you’re sure of your professional expertise.
Tips for moving to Spain: Gain as much experience as possible before moving to Spain. Make the perfect CV, be proactive, and participate in your field’s conferences and events. A better portfolio equals higher salaries.
Accommodation
You may need to think about a place to stay even before getting a visa, as it’s sometimes included in the required documents. Where to find your next home for a happy life in Spain? Try searching there:
- Facebook: Don’t underestimate the power of social media platforms when it comes to finding an apartment to rent. You can find cheap options here and make a deal to share a flat with someone. But be aware of scams!
- Websites: For example, ThinkSPAIN or Flat.io. There are thousands of flats available.
- Community: Check local Kenyan community chats to share a flat with someone or ask for contacts of reliable accommodation owners. By the end of the day, living in Spain as an expat is about supporting other expats and overcoming all the challenges together.
Flight
It’s good to romanticize the flights from Kenya to Spain and prepare a runaway airport look, but let’s be real: moving all your belongings to another continent is tough. How to move to Spain and survive crossing the borders?
First, search for flights from Kenya to Spain and evaluate the options. If you have to transit, 4-5 hours is ideal to register and pass the security check on time without rushing.
Then, check the maximum amount of luggage you can take. To save space and energy, we recommend bringing only the essentials. Later, you can buy everything you need in Spain.
If you need more belongings, consider using shipping services. It costs a lot, but the comfort is worth it.
Banks
After landing in Spain, one of the first things to do is to open a local bank account. It’s essential for receiving your salary or scholarship and for a peaceful life in Spain. Try one of these banks:
- BBVA Bank Spain
- Banco Santander
- Caixabank
After opening a local bank account, you can send money back to Kenya to support your family. For smooth and secure transfers, use Profee, as we offer:
- No hidden fees;
- Unmatched exchange rates;
- Security under strict PCI DSS regulations;
- Simplicity to make sure that your family members get the funds without any worries.
What else to consider
Now that you know more about how to move to Spain, what else should you keep in mind?
- Health check-ups;
- Getting a local mobile number;
- Saving money for emergencies;
- Getting an insurance;
- Getting your tax identification number;
Follow our tips for moving to Spain and starting a new chapter of your life with Profee.
