Reside abroad
Procedures and Documentation
Moving abroad requires careful preparation and compliance with various procedures and documents. This section provides a detailed guide on the necessary documentation for residing in different countries, from visas and residence permits to consular registration and other important formalities.
Registration in the Consular Enrollment Registry
Registering at your country’s consulate or embassy facilitates access to consular services and allows participation in elections.
Passport Renewal
You can renew your passport at the embassy or consulate of your jurisdiction before it expires.
Obtaining or Renewing the DNI
Issuance or renewal of the DNI (National Identity Document) can only be done in Spain. Residents abroad should plan a visit for this procedure.
Certificate of Life and Marital Status
This document certifies that you are alive and specifies your marital status. It is useful for procedures such as receiving pensions.
Legalization of Documents
Legalization certifies the authenticity of public documents for use in another country, done via the Hague Apostille or diplomatic legalization, depending on the countries involved.
Participation in Electoral Processes
Spaniards living abroad can vote in general, regional, and European Parliament elections by registering in the Electoral Census of Absent Residents (CERA).
Certificate of Tax Residence
This certificate is required to avoid double taxation and must be requested in the country of residence.
Tax Identification Number (NIF) for Non-Residents
Required if you carry out economic activities in Spain. You can request it at the Spanish Tax Agency.
Healthcare
Health is a priority when moving abroad. Here you will find information on accessing healthcare services in different countries, necessary medical insurance, and how to register with the local health system. Resources and organizations for emergency medical assistance are also included.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
This card facilitates temporary healthcare access in the European Economic Area and Switzerland.
Healthcare for Spaniards Abroad
Coverage depends on agreements between Spain and your country of residence. Consider private health insurance if necessary.
Social Security
Understanding your social security rights and obligations is essential when living abroad. This section provides information on how social security works in different countries, transferring benefits, and ensuring coverage for illness, accidents, or retirement.
Special Agreement for Workers Displaced Abroad
This agreement allows workers moving abroad to maintain contributions to the Spanish Social Security system, securing coverage for certain benefits such as retirement, permanent disability, and death/survivorship.
Application for Displacement Certificate (Form A1)
This certificate proves that the displaced worker remains subject to Spanish Social Security legislation, avoiding double contributions in another EU, EEA, or Swiss country.
Exporting Unemployment Benefits
Allows Spanish unemployment benefit recipients to move to another EEA or Swiss country while continuing to receive benefits for a set period (up to 3 months, extendable to 6 months).
Applying for a Retirement Pension from Abroad
Spaniards residing abroad who have contributed in Spain can apply for retirement pensions from their country of residence.
Special Agreement for Employees of International Organizations
Allows Spaniards working for international intergovernmental organizations abroad to maintain their contributions to the Spanish Social Security system, securing access to certain benefits.
Education and Training
If moving with your family, it’s important to understand educational options in your new country. This section provides information on educational systems abroad, from early childhood to universities and vocational training, as well as resources for adapting your education and recognizing your foreign qualifications.
Recognition and Validation of Studies
Recognition allows studies completed abroad to be valid in Spain.
Educational Programs for Spaniards Abroad
The Ministry of Education offers Spanish language and culture programs abroad.
Additional Resources
Beyond information about living abroad, this section includes extra resources such as guides, manuals, and links to organizations and support services to help you navigate life abroad.
Driving License Renewal
You can renew your Spanish driving license at the embassy or consulate if the host country allows its use.
Vehicle Registration Abroad
If you acquire a vehicle abroad, check local requirements for registration.
Country Profiles