Administrative procedures in Barcelona for French families
Moving to Barcelona from France is an exciting experience, especially for families looking for a new life in a city full of culture, quality of life, and opportunities. But, as with any change of country, it’s essential to properly manage the administrative procedures in Barcelona to avoid setbacks and ensure a smooth adaptation.
Below, we present a clear and practical guide to the most important procedures French families must complete when settling in the Catalan capital.
1. Obtaining the NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)
The NIE is essential for any foreign citizen who wants to live, work, study, or complete legal procedures in Spain. It’s the first thing you’ll need to open a bank account, sign a rental agreement, or register for public services.
At Leave and Live, we help you manage your NIE application through appointment scheduling, document collection, and support throughout the process.
2. Register at Barcelona City Hall
Registration certifies your residency in Barcelona and is mandatory for accessing services such as public healthcare, your children’s schooling, and municipal aid.
For families, it’s important to register all household members, including children. If you’re renting, you’ll need the lease and ID for all family members.
3. Registration in the health system (CatSalut)
Once registered, French families can enroll in the Catalan health system, CatSalut, which provides access to public healthcare. To do so, you’ll need your NIE (National Identity Number), your registration certificate, and, in some cases, a Spanish Social Security number.
At Leave and Live, we guide you step by step so you can access quality medical care without complications.
4. Schooling of children
Barcelona has a wide range of public, state-subsidized, private, and international schools. To enroll, you must complete your registration and present documentation such as a passport, NIE (National Educational Institution), and school certificates from your country of origin.
We help you choose the most suitable school based on the language, pedagogical approach, and location of your new home.
5. Hiring private insurance
Although you can access the public healthcare system, many French families choose to purchase private health insurance to supplement the services. It’s also advisable to have home, car, and liability insurance.
We help you compare policies and insurers to find the best coverage at the best price.
6. Approval of the French driving license
If you’re coming by car from France or planning to drive in Spain, it’s essential to validate your driver’s license. As an EU country, you can drive with your French license for a limited time, but it’s recommended to officially register it or exchange it for a Spanish one.
We handle the entire process with the DGT to save you waits and administrative errors.
7. Opening a bank account
A bank account in Spain is key to managing your daily life: from direct debit payments to receiving your salary. Some banks offer special conditions for foreigners and fee-free accounts.
At Leave and Live, we’ll help you choose the best option for your needs.
Conclusion: Simplify your arrival with Leave and Live
Correctly completing all the administrative procedures in Barcelona is essential for your French family’s rapid and stress-free integration. At Leave and Live, we offer a personalized service that includes advice, support, and direct management of all these procedures.
👉 If you’re in the process of relocating to Barcelona, we invite you to explore our administrative services for expats in Barcelona, where you’ll find comprehensive assistance from day one. You can also find out about maintaining your home in Barcelona if you spend time away or are looking for ongoing support.