Moving to Barcelona: a practical guide for expatriates
Barcelona, with its unique blend of Mediterranean culture, modern amenities and quality of life, has become a favorite destination for those looking to start a new life abroad. If you are thinking of moving to Barcelona, this guide provides all the practical information you need to plan your move and get off to a good start.
Essential documentation and formalities
Before packing your bags, make sure you have the necessary documents in order. EU citizens have a more streamlined process, but expats from outside the EU should consider the following:
- Appropriate visa (student, work, investor, digital nomad, etc.).
- NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Number): mandatory for any legal or economic procedure in Spain.
- Registration at the City Hall, which certifies your residence in the city.
- Registration with Social Security or CatSalut if you have access to public health care.
💡 Need help with these steps? Check our page of Administrative Procedures for Expatriates in Barcelona.
2. Find housing in Barcelona
Barcelona’s real estate market is dynamic, but competitive. Some key tips:
- Consider neighborhoods such as Gràcia, Eixample, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi or Poblenou, depending on your lifestyle.
- Rent is usually requested with a deposit and additional guarantees.
- You can opt for long term or temporary rentals while you look for something more permanent.
You can also count on personalized housing search services and legal advice for contracts.
🏠 We help you with the Home Search service in Barcelona for Expatriates.
3. Schools and education for your children
Barcelona has an excellent network of international schools. The city is ideal for families because of its educational offerings, safety and healthy lifestyle.
- British, American, French and Swiss schools.
- International Baccalaureate and multilingual systems.
- Quality extracurricular activities.
👩🏫 Discover our guide to International Schools in Barcelona for Expatriates.
4. Services and daily life
To integrate more easily:
- Learn some Catalan and Spanish: many institutions value it.
- Enjoy efficient public transportation and bike sharing.
- Access to public or private health services.
- Explore local leisure: restaurants, beaches, museums and nature just minutes away.
5. Social and cultural integration
Barcelona is an open and multicultural city. Even so, integration is key:
- Join expatriate communities or sports clubs.
- Participate in local activities and traditional festivals.
- Consider joining initiatives such as Voluntariat per la Llengua to improve your language skills and meet people.
Conclusion: Living in Barcelona as an expat
Moving to Barcelona is an exciting project full of possibilities. With proper planning and a little support, adapting to your new home will be a positive and enriching experience. At Leave and Live we will be with you every step of the way: from finding a home to getting your children into school and managing your documents.
📦 Preparing your move? Explore all our Expatriate Services in Barcelona and start your new life with peace of mind.