A retiree in Spain

Over the last two decades, more and more retirees have left behind the dull and drizzly shores of the UK for a sunnier, more laid back lifestyle in Spain.

Cheap charter flights have helped to ease the cost of travelling to and fro, and mass tourism has made Spain a top holiday destination among British people. These days, the average pensioner is just as likely to move to one of the Spanish Costas as they are to buy a cottage in the English countryside.

After years of hard work and stress in an increasingly depressing climate, it?s no wonder today?s pensioners are making the move to Spain in their thousands. Year round golf, a mild climate, good healthcare and beautiful natural surroundings are enough for anyone to want to escape the UK, but once in Spain, how easy is it to settle into Spanish life?? ?

Well, it?s not always a bed of roses. For many, homesickness and the language barrier tend to be the main reasons why some retired couples fail to adapt to their new way of life. However, with airlines currently offering such low flight fares, it?s possible to make short visits back home every now and again, for a quick fix of British life! Often though, savings don?t quite cover the costs, particularly if you?re making regular trips, therefore, it?s advisable to get your pension sent directly to your home in Spain.

Obtaining residency and NIE

Thankfully, the days of getting up at 6:30am and queuing for hours to be registered as a resident are over. Nowadays, one simple call to your local police station to book an appointment is all it takes to obtain residency on the spot. If you?re planning on becoming a long term resident in Spain, it?s a good idea to apply for your NIE (the Spanish equivalent of the National Insurance Number) as well as your Residency Certificate (residencia). It?s important to obtain your NIE number as most Spanish banks won?t allow foreigners to open accounts without these details, nor will you be able to legally purchase property in Spain. The residencia certificate is valid for five years and after this, you will need to renew it.

To apply for a residencia, you must visit your nearest local police station? and fill out the relevant forms. You?ll also need:

• Your current passport and a photocopy
• Your Empadronamiento (or Padron) certificate (available from your local Town Hall on production of your current sale or rental contract)

Once you?ve submitted the relevant documents, you?ll be given a pay slip to take to the bank in order to pay the fee of ?10. You must then take the pay slip back to the Police Station to be issued with your certificate of residency (Certificado de Registro) and entered into the official registry.

To apply for an NIE certificate, you?ll need:

• Your passport and a photocopy
• Two passport sized photos with your name clearly written on the back of both.

Renewing your residencia in Spain

Unfortunately, you won?t be reminded when your five year certificate has expired, therefore, it?s important that you keep a record of the date you received your certificate. However, it?s no longer possible to renew your existing certificate and therefore, you must repeat the process as above.

?