Dreaming of tapas by the beach, historic cobbled streets, or a quirky and colourful change of scenery in a truly international city? It’s no surprise that so many people are moving to Spain from Australia.
But let’s be honest. An international move is a big job as well as a big adventure. There are visas to obtain, belongings to sort, and shipping logistics to navigate. That’s where KEYS The Moving Solution comes in. We’ve been the trusted international removalist for over 30 years. We know exactly how to take the stress out of your move so you can settle into life under the Spanish sun sooner.
Why Australians Choose Spain
People of all ages move to Spain from Australia for many reasons. The relaxed pace and large expat community appeal to retirees. Younger Australians can access study opportunities or a new digital nomad visa. Families also benefit from Spain’s strong community culture.
Lifestyle And Culture
Meals are social events that bring people together year-round, and a packed calendar of community and religious festivals means there’s always something happening. Add in a vibrant history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned art, and it’s easy to see the appeal.
Climate
Spain’s weather offers mild winters and long Mediterranean summers, meaning you can enjoy outdoor living almost all year round in most areas.
Affordability
While wages in Spain are generally lower than in Australia, the overall cost of living is more manageable. Everything from rent to everyday expenses like groceries and eating out is cheaper in Barcelona and Madrid than in Perth. Housing costs vary by region, but many expats find they can stretch their income further without giving up a comfortable lifestyle.
Diverse and Exciting
Spain has 17 autonomous communities, each with its own character. Madrid buzzes with urban life, Barcelona offers Catalonian culture in a modern metropolis, Andalusia is famous for sunshine and a laid-back lifestyle, and the Canary and Balearic Islands bring island getaways within reach.
How Many Australians Live in Spain?
According to the latest official data, 5,500 Australians were living in Spain in 2022. The country’s foreign-born population has grown almost 20% since then, so the number may now be over 6,000.
Planning Your Move to Spain From Australia
Moving overseas takes time and careful planning. We recommend starting 6 to 12 months ahead to keep everything on track.
Timeline Tips
- 6 months out: Research destinations and visas, book your consultation with KEYS, and start shortlisting what to take.
- 3 months out: Lock in moving dates, finalise what you’re taking and leaving behind, and book personal travel arrangements.
- 1 month out: Confirm shipping details and personal documents, and tie up any loose ends at home.
See our International Moving Guide here for a more detailed breakdown.
Packing and Preparation
Spain’s climate varies widely. Depending on where you settle, you might need winter clothing, wet-weather gear, or breezy summer fabrics.
When it comes to kitting out your home, Spain runs on 230V electricity with different plugs. If you plan to take appliances, you will need transformers and adaptors. It may not be worth shipping common appliances that you can buy in the EU.
Homes can also be smaller, so many families leaving Perth choose to store excess belongings in our secure storage facilities.
Read more: Exploring Storage Solutions for Your International Relocation.
Visas, Customs and Import Rules
Australians moving to Spain need a visa to stay longer than 90 days. Your options include:
- Work visa with a job offer.
- Student visa for study or exchange.
- Digital Nomad visa for remote workers.
- Non-Lucrative visa for those with sufficient funds.
- Golden visa through property or investment.
Once you arrive, apply for your residency card and NIE number (tax ID) within 30 days.
Customs in Spain is strict but straightforward with the right preparation. Household goods used for more than six months can usually be imported duty-free. Items like alcohol, food, plants and certain electronics may be restricted. KEYS’ relocation experts help you prepare the right paperwork and avoid delays at Spanish ports.
Shipping to Spain From Australia: How It Works
We can ship your belongings by sea or air:
- Full container load (FCL) sea freight is the best for whole households.
- Shared container (LCL) sea freight is more cost-effective if you’re moving fewer items.
- Air freight is the fastest but most expensive option, handy for essentials.
Most shipments from Perth to Spain head to Valencia, Barcelona and Bilbao in 8 to 12 weeks. KEYS manages the process from your place in Perth to your new home in Spain, working with trusted local movers so you don’t have to juggle multiple providers or navigate a new language.
Moving on a shoestring? See our Top Tips for Moving Overseas Cheaply.
KEYS’ Additional Services
Relocation is more than boxes and shipping. KEYS also offers:
- Pet relocation: Safe, stress-free journeys for your furry friends.
- Vehicle shipping: Plus help with Spanish registration rules.
- Flexible storage: Short or long-term in secure Perth or Kalgoorlie facilities.
- Business moves: Office relocations, IT equipment, and FF&E projects.
- Transit insurance: Providing peace of mind and financial protection.
We can also arrange unpacking and local storage, and even help you get settled in Spain through our local integration partners.
Why Choose KEYS for Your Move to Spain
Choosing the right international removalist in Perth makes all the difference when embarking on a big move. KEYS The Moving Solution has over 30 years of experience in local, national and international relocations. We’re proudly WA-owned and operated, but our reach is global.
As an internationally accredited mover (AFRA, FIDI, AIMA, AMG and Harmony Relocation Network), we work with 500+ trusted partners across the globe, including Europe and the UK. Together with our owned fleet, extensive experience, and access to hundreds of containers, this enables us to provide end-to-end international moving solutions.
Talk to Our Spain Relocation Experts Today
Moving to Spain from Australia is a big change, but KEYS is here to make it easy. From your initial consultation until you’re settled in Spain, we’re with you every step of the way.
Request a free moving quote to get started.
