HOW TO SPAIN
Notes on Spain for residents, new arrivals and visitors
Your complete guide to living in Spain
Spain runs on paperwork in a set order. You register your address on the padron for free, non-EU residents book fingerprints for a TIE card (EUR 16.08) within one month, and visa means tests use IPREM, EUR 600 a month in 2026. There is no blocked account to buy.
Start with who you are
Three readers, three routes
New arrivals
You have landed, or you are about to. Proof of funds, the padron, your NIE and TIE, and a first bank account, in the order Spain asks for them.
- Proof of funds
- Padron
- NIE and TIE
- Bank account
Residents
You are past the paperwork. Switching energy and mobile providers, credit cards for residents, and the insurance worth reviewing each year.
- Energy switching
- Credit cards
- Health insurance
- Home internet
Visitors
A short stay with no Spanish address. Getting online on day one and the travel cover worth having.
- Travel eSIM
- Travel insurance
- eSIM finder
The desks
8 sections
Visa & Proof of Funds
Visa routes, the 2026 IPREM and SMI amounts each one needs, and why Spain has no blocked account.
Desk 02Arrival Admin & Renting
Padron, NIE and TIE, the social security number, regional health cards, and the 2026 rental rules.
Desk 03Finance
Opening a bank account, getting your NIE or NIF tax number, credit cards, and mortgages for residents and newcomers.
Desk 04Insurance
Health insurance, car insurance, and life and home coverage, including how private insurance fits alongside Spain's public healthcare system.
Desk 05Telecom
Mobile plans, SIM and eSIM options, and home internet providers, plus how to compare coverage across Spain's major networks.
Desk 06Energy
Setting up electricity and gas, comparing providers, and understanding Spanish energy bills and tariffs.
Desk 07Jobs
The 2026 minimum wage, offered salaries, Spanish CV rules, and job platforms compared.
Desk 08Universities
All 99 registered universities, tuition per ECTS credit by region, and scholarship status.