Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance
Relocation Services
Welcome to our Moving to Barcelona FAQs page, where you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about relocating to this vibrant city. Whether you’re curious about housing, visas, schools, or healthcare, this guide is designed to help you settle in smoothly and confidently.
Depending on the visa (such as the Non‑Lucrative Visa), the process can take 2–4 months, including gathering documents, obtaining appointments, and waiting for official decisions.
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is a unique identification number required for almost any official transaction in Spain, from opening a bank account to signing a lease. Click here for more information
The “empadronamiento” is a registration with the local town hall that proves your residence in a specific area of Barcelona. It is required for many administrative processes, including obtaining a public healthcare card and registering children in school. Click here for more information.
If you’re applying for certain visas (such as the Non‑Lucrative Visa), you must have private health insurance. EU citizens with a registered residence can also access public healthcare.
No. The Non‑Lucrative Visa is designed for residency only, and it doesn’t permit working in Spain. However, you can apply for a work or self‑employment permit later. Click here for more information.
If you have a work or self‑employment permit, you can register as an “autónomo” (self‑employed) by obtaining a Social Security number and submitting the required documents to the tax office (Hacienda).
EU citizens with a registered residence can access the public healthcare system. Non‑EU expats must have private health insurance until they qualify for public healthcare.
Typically, you’ll need an NIE, empadronamiento certificate, and Social Security number (if applicable).
Private healthcare provides quick access to specialists and medical services. Expats can sign up for a range of private insurance plans tailored to their needs. Click here for more information.
Costs vary based on coverage and age, starting from approximately €50–€100 per month for basic policies.
Yes. Most private hospitals and many doctors in Barcelona have English‑speaking staff.
Call 112 for emergencies. This number operates throughout Spain and provides help in multiple languages.
Yes. Barcelona has a growing number of English‑speaking therapists, counselors, and support groups for expats.
Yes. Public healthcare can be a valuable backup and is required for certain legal residency statuses.
L’Eixample, Les Corts, Sarrià, and Sant Gervasi are ideal for families. Young professionals and digital nomads often favor El Born, El Raval, and Gràcia. Click here for more information.
Gavà and Castelldefels are great for beach lovers, while Sant Cugat and Esplugues are ideal for families seeking quieter environments and proximity to international schools.
Yes. Suburbs like Sant Just Desvern, Sant Cugat, and Esplugues offer a balance between access to Barcelona and a quieter lifestyle
Horta‑Guinardó, Sants‑Montjuïc, and Sant Andreu often have more affordable rents compared to central areas.
Sarrià‑Sant Gervasi, Esplugues, and Sant Just Desvern are known for their access to top international schools.
While Barcelona is generally safe, areas with higher tourist traffic (such as El Raval and parts of Las Ramblas) may have higher pickpocket activity.
Yes. Areas like Barceloneta and Poblenou are popular for expats seeking proximity to the sea.
Options include public, concertada (semi‑private), private, and international schools, offering a range of curriculums. Click here for more information.
Public schools are state‑funded, concertada are semi‑private and partially state‑funded, and private/international schools are fully private institutions.
Public and concertada schools are ideal for integrating into the local language and culture.
Yes, many international schools teach exclusively in English or offer bilingual programs.
Costs vary. Public schools are free, concertada range from €100–€500 per month, and international schools range from €600–€1,500 per month.
Yes. Admission to public and concertada schools often depends on your residence area.
Most applications are made in spring, but it’s best to research options and plan at least a year in advance.
Yes, although availability may be limited. Private and international schools can often accommodate mid‑year enrolments.
Options include the International Baccalaureate (IB), American, British, and other national curricula.
Sarrià‑Sant Gervasi, Esplugues, and Sant Just Desvern have the highest concentration of international schools.
Most public schools teach primarily in Catalan, with Spanish taught as a subject.
Yes. We can help families find the best fit, understand application timelines, and navigate the admission process.
Yes. Barcelona is generally safe, with standard precautions applicable to any major tourist city.
Les Corts, Sarrià‑Sant Gervasi, and L’Eixample are considered safe and family‑friendly areas.
Petty crime (pickpocketing) is common in tourist areas, but serious crimes are rare.
Be vigilant in tourist hotspots, especially on public transport and crowded streets. Use a money belt or anti‑theft backpack.
Call 112. Services are available in multiple languages.
Yes. The metro, buses, and trams are safe, well‑monitored, and highly used.
Exercise caution in tourist-heavy areas like El Raval and certain spots near Las Ramblas.
Yes. Licensed taxis are safe and regulated.
Typically, one or two months’ rent. This is returned upon departure, pending inspection.
Rent typically covers the property itself. Utilities and community charges may be separate.
For long‑term leases, annual increases must be tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
For long‑term leases (over one year), new legislation means the landlord must cover the agency fee.
If you have questions that aren’t covered here—or you’re looking for personalized help with your move to Barcelona—Contact us. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Spanish Ministry of Interior – Residency Permits
Official info on visas, residency permits, and immigration procedures.
Visit website
Barcelona Town Hall
Local government info and administrative services.
Visit website
Public Healthcare in Catalonia
Details about accessing the public health system.
Visit website