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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Spain?

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We asked retirees what they find the most challenging about retiring in Spain. They wrote...

"Not speaking the language. Also adjusting to the meal hours and realizing that most stores are closed between 1:00 to 4:30. You may have trouble buying clothes if you are tall or overweight; the Spaniards tend to be smaller and thinner than many Americans," remarked another expat who made the move to Salamanca, Spain.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Spain is obtaining residency. Many countries require paperwork from employers verifying your residence and work history as well as proof that you have sufficient funds to live in Spain. Additionally, navigating Spain's healthcare system can be difficult to adjust to, as it is a different system than many foreigners are accustomed to. Language can also be a barrier, as many people in Spain are not fluent in English. Additionally, if you are considering working in Spain after retirement, Spain's labor regulations can also be confusing for newcomers. Finally, transitioning to a foreign culture can also be challenging, as Spain has a different culture and way of life from many other countries," explained one expat living in Spain.

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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Other Questions:

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Spain?

If you live in Spain, newcomers to Spain would love to hear your answer to this question.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in Spain, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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Traveling Mailbox

Traveling Mailbox lets you view your postal mail online anywhere and it's is affordable, simple, and flexible.
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Traveling MailboxTraveling Mailbox

Traveling Mailbox lets you view your postal mail online anywhere and it's is affordable, simple, and flexible.
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