Apply For A Visa
It is necessary for you to check with the Spanish embassy in your home country to see which visa you require or do not require when entering Spain. Terms and conditions vary per country so make sure you are informed. If you are a passport holder from the EAA or the EU (including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein but not including Croatia until 2020) then with reference to the Under the Freedom of Movement Act(1992) it is possible for you to study, work and live in Spain without the need for a visa or permit. Below are more details on which nationals are not required to get vias.
Citizens with passports from the European Union, Norway, Switzerland and Iceland do not require a visa to visit or reside in Spain. The citizens from the following countries should read section two on Ministry of Current Affairs and Cooperation website to see the countries whose nationals do not need visas to visit Spain unless they stay in Spain for more than 90 days within a 6 month period. If an individual from one of these countries does not have a biometric passport then a short stay Schengen visa is required. If an individual is from the merchant navy, a member of airline crew or has travel documents listed under the Geneva Convention of July 1951 then they do not require a visa. The spouse or child of a Spanish national and owner of a UK Residence Card which states this relationship does not require a visa. Individuals from countries who would usually need a visa to enter Spain may be able to travel there as part of a school visiting group with confirmation from their countries education authority.
EU/EEA/Swiss students don’t need a visa to live or study in Spain, but will have to register with the local authorities and get a residence certificate. Border control may wish to see return flights (within 90 days) or proof of accommodation. All who travel to Spain need their passport to be valid for at least 6 months.
Visas for non EU/EAA/Swiss nationals (or otherwise listed)
Citizens from the following countries from section 6 of the Ministry of Current Affairs and Cooperation website require a visa to enter Spain. Children require a visa, whatever the age or nationality.
Student visa
If you are a national from a country other than EU/EEA countries or Switzerland and want to carry out an internship, training, research, study or a student exchange for 3 months or more require a student visa. Students must be accepted on a course with an officially recognised institution and once they have the letter of acceptance or certificate they can apply for the visa from the consulate or Spanish embassy in your country of residence. You must apply from your home country as it is not possible to apply once in Spain.
Non Swiss/EU/EAA Students studying in Spain up to 3 months/90 days
Providing the student fulfils the legal requisites listed in the European Directive and is permitted to apply for a visa to study in Spain for up to 3 months then the student must apply for a visa from the Spanish embassy/consulate in their home country. U.S students do not need a visa for this time period.
Non Swiss/EU/EAA Students studying in Spain up to 6 months/180 days (Visado D Estudios hasta 180 días)
If the student is intending on studying in Spain for up to 6 months then a type D student visa is necessary. A Residence Card cannot be gained with this visa. If the student needs an extension on their visa they can file a Form 02 from the Spanish government.
Non Swiss/EU/EAA Students studying in Spain in excess of 6 months/180 days (Visado D Estudios, Investigación)
If the student is intending on studying in Spain in excess of 6 months/180 days then students must get a type D visa which allows for validity for 3 months after entering the Schengen area. Once the student enters spain they need to apply for a student residence permit/card within a 30 day maximum. Once they have this they can remain in Spain after the visa expires.
Airport Transit visas (visado de transito aeroportuario)
This visa must be applied for to transit through a Spanish airport and into the international transit zone. This visa is necessary for nationals who are not from Canada, Switzerland, Andorra, the EU, Japan, USA, Monaco and San Marino. Additionally, Holders of Diplomatic and Service passports do not require this visa.
Short Stay Visa (Schengen Visa (visado de corta duracion)
Tourist Visa
Visa for up to 90 days which does not permit the individual to work and must be applied for from an embassy of the Schengen Territory or if only traveling to one country, to that countrys embassy only. Applied for at the most 21 days before you travel.
Business visa
Short stay visa for up to 90 days for individuals who which to stay in Spain for reasons of business. The individual travels in person to the embassy of Spain and applies in person with an application advised 21 days before travel.
Entry Visa for Family Members of Citizens of the EU
Applies to members of family to an EU national who are entering Spain. For the application the EU national/EU family member must also attend and register via the Spanish Civil Registry office. It includes registered partners and spouses, direct descendants of the individual under 21 and the parents of the direct descendant under 21.
Work Visas with Exception Work Permit
Visa for artists and performing artists who can travel to Spain for up to 90 days with this visa. Performances undertaken cannot be more than 5 successive days within 6 months or twenty days of appearances in 6 months. Visas should be applied for 21 days before travel commences.
Visa for Lost or Stolen Spanish Resident Card
It is worth noting that legal residents in Spain who have lost their Resident Permit Identification or have been robbed of it need to travel to the consulate with fingerprints and a photo and be issued a visa to get back into Spain.
Work visa
Visa exempt from requesting a work permit
This visa is for foreigners who undertake scientific, religious or cultural activities, teach,or perform as artists in Spain.
Work employment visa
With the permission granted from the government of their country nationals may work and live in Spain with this visa.
Visa for temporary residence and research in Spain
Those who have research projects vetoed by the institution of research are able to use this visa to stay in Spain and carry out such projects.
Self employment work visa
A self employed professional may work and live in Spain to carry out their business with this visa.
Entrepreneurial Support Act for Entrepreneurs and its Internationalization
A range of visas for foreigners who make clear and significant investments in the country of Spain regarding the terms and conditions. Holders of this visa may live in spain too.
Residence visas
Temporary residency and work within the framework of a transnational provision of services
An individual who will live and work in Spain in a work centre requires this visa. It may be that the foreigner works with the same company in the EU may work in that company in Spain or it is required for a skilled worker to travel to Spain to monitor construction.
Residence Visa (Non-Lucrative)
This visa is for individuals who will remain in Spain in excess of 90 days and will not work in Spain or undertake any professional activity. After one month the individual will get a foreign national identity card. The visa holder can travel through the Schengen region for 3 months but not in excess of this within a 6 month timescale.
Retirement visa
For those nationals who wish to retire in Spain must have a visado de residencia from their local Spanish embassy in their country. There will be checks on your pension, that you have sufficient funds and other terms and conditions to be aware of.
Find A Job
Since the 2008 Spanish Economic Crisis it has been an uphill battle for the country to beat the large figures of unemployment that have tarnished the job market for nearly a decade. Spain relies on the construction and tourism industries to provide jobs with workers often having temporary contracts. A turning point has come however in April 2016 as it has been recorded by the Labour Ministry Data that the creation of jobs by contributors has finally outnumbered figures of the registered unemployed. The year has seen more and more jobs added by almost all job sectors notably manufacturing and hospitality. The employment rate as of June 2016 is at the lowest in the past 7 years, falling to 18.9% causing an upturn in market predictions.
Unemployment rates per region differ by more than 10%. Almost all of the north of the country (including Madrid) sees unemployment rates of between 15%-21% whilst the regions which contain the biggest part of the countrys industrial work such as the Basque Country, La Rioja and Navarre has rates of 15%. In the south, Andalucia, Castilla La Mancha, Extremadura and the Canary Islands have rates of over 25% whilst the rest of the south and the Balearic Islands are seeing figures of just over 21%. On the East coast Valencia and Murcia see 21%-25% unemployment and the south has been frequently experiencing the worst unemployment with Andalusia, Castile La Mancha and Extremadura of more than 25%.
When searching for a job in Spain people often check the online job sites with regional listings as the first port of call. Jobs range from unpaid internships to highly skilled professional roles and are are recruited for on a range of network of sites some of which are listed below. Additionally, word of mouth is always a useful and reliable way to find out about job opportunities so networking in local expat community meets, having a look at online forums and turning up to socialise at arranged events could help you make friends and perhaps discover job opportunities too. If you speak Spanish or have a friend who does, have a scan over the newspapers for job advertisements. Go in person to register with employment agencies which usually offer temporary or contract roles. Unsolicited job applications are worth trying as it hasn’t been unheard of for people to get jobs by sending over their CV and a cover letter (either electronically or by post) to a company and getting an interview as a result. Follow through with a phone call to check up on the status of your application.
There are many multinationals who might employ English speaking expats such as AXA, Yellow Pages, Michelin, Macro, KPMG and SIEMENS to name a few. When it comes to shortage occupations these vary from highly qualified roles such as teaching in a university, medical practitioners, experts in business and computing, engineers and medium skilled roles in tourism and real estate. 2015 saw a growth in the job sectors of engineering, IT, marketing, agribusiness, renewable energy and the creative sector. For types of employment other than working in tourism, teaching English, real estate and working in multinational companies generally you need to be able to speak Spanish. That means by not speaking the local language you are somewhat limiting your employment chances if the job you want is outside of the usual sectors expats find work.
Job search websites
https://www.iagora.com/
Multi Use website where job seekers can apply for jobs, advertise their cv to recruiters and search for language schools.
http://www.thinkspain.com
Site for English speakers to find jobs in Spain plus information on working there, tax and residency.
https://ec.europa.eu/
Website for individuals from the EU seeking jobs in the European Economic Area. Job seekers can apply to jobs online and/or list their CV for headhunting.
https://www.empleate.gob.es/
Website of the Public State Employment Service where jobs per region are listed.
https://www.primerempleo.com/
Website where the job seeker can place their CV on display and be headhunted by companies and also search for jobs with the job search engine tool. From first job to specialists.
www.infojobs.net
Online job portal with job vacancies listed per company. Range of multinational job listings.
Recruitment consultancies
Antal International
Employment agency with offices, consultants and online job search plus tool for recruiters to find workers.
Email: LHerran@antal.com
Tel: 34 913 106015
Website: http://www.antal.com/
Hays Specialist Recruitment
International recruitment consultancy with offices all over the world plus 5 branches in Spain.
Contact: Page on website
Website: http://www.hays.es/
Howard Bond Recruitment
Recruitment consultancy based on Western Europe offering in house training for businesses too.
Email: info@howardbondrecruitment.com
Tel: 34 951 120 598
Website: http://www.howardbondrecruitment.com/
Approach People Recruitment
European recruitment consultancy with multilingual job vacancies amongst other roles.
Madrid branch
Email: vanessa@approachpeople.com
Tel: 34 917 693 440
Website: http://www.approachpeople.com/
The Public State Employment Service (SEPE) is an employment service where job vacancies are advertised, training courses are available and advice on job hunting is given. There is also a government run site run through the Ministry of Employment and Social Security where job seekers can search and apply for roles.
Like working illegally within any country in the EU, it may be that if you are caught you will be deported. Penalties and fines can be in place if migrant workers are discovered to be working without a visa or documentation and this applies to both the worker and employer. If you are asked to leave but don’t, you may be banned from traveling again to the EU.
Useful networking groups
Local and regional Spanish Chamber of Commerce meeting groups are found on the organisations website.
http://www.camara.es/
Club for Spanish exporters, businesses and investors whose work involves international trade. (Spanish speaking)
http://clubexportadores.org/
Madrid based networking club where members meet to discuss issues, problems and raise the profile of their businesses (Spanish speaking) http://negociosynetworking.net/
Networking site for the Professional Women’s Network in Spain which arranges networking events for women from all industries. http://pwnglobal.net/
Expat (guiri meaning foreigner in Spanish) business network with job search tool on the website and social and business networking events.
http://guiribusiness.com/
Rent Property
Expats who relocate to Spain to work and live often rent first to familiarise themselves with the way of life and then move on to buy if they become residents. Locals generally own their own houses leaving only 17% in rental properties. A high percentage of foreigners who come to Spain to live also buy houses rather than rent. This information however isn’t to say that the rental market is weak, it is very much strong with new developments and a plentiful supply of rental properties on the market. Finding a property is usually done through online property portals, adverts in newspapers and word of mouth. Real estate websites from Germany or the UK are also options and going into an estate agent (inmobiliarias) in person is another route to try.
The average price of renting a one bedroom apartment located in a city centre in Spain is €538.31 pcm. For a 3 bed apartment in the city centre it rises to €875.93 pcm. Outside of the centre you would be looking at €402.61 pcm for a 1 bedroom apartment and €636.88 pcm for a 3 bed apartment. In Barcelona on average for a 900 Sqft furnished apartment the rent would be €875 pcm in an everyday area and in Madrid a 900 Sqft furnished apartment in an average area would cost around €853 pcm. In Ibiza in the Balearic Islands the cost of renting a one bed apartment in the city centre is €833.33 pcm and outside of the centre costs €666.67 pcm. Bilbao sees a one bed apartment in the city centre cost €740.91 and outside the centre is €590.00. Seville sees a one bed apartment rent for €513.64 in the city centre and € 366.67 outside.
There is an excellent site listed here which breaks down the cost of living in a city of your choice with the option to compare several cities against each other.
The typical lease term in Spain can be 11 months with an inbuilt clause wherein the tenant may renew if they wish. Many landlords offer 12 month contracts too. As of 2013 the minimum rental contract length is now 6 months and after this it is a rolling 1 month contract. When signing a tenancy contract (contrato de arrendamiento) which should be in Spanish it can be useful to bring a translator, an abogado (lawyer), gestor (notary) or Spanish speaking friend who can read the agreement through with you. Contracts may be verbal or written, but it’s best to get one in writing. Another alternative is to use an English rental company but this can come with high agency fees. Bare in mind that when registering for the Electoral Roll (Empadronamiento) a Residential card (Residencia) or opening a bank account you will need your contract to be in Spanish. When signing the lease make sure that the rent price includes all the taxes the tenant is responsible for paying. Be aware that the lease agreement should have the itinerary either included or in a separate document which you are able to assess. Check with the landlord that they are responsible for maintenance but and smaller maintenance costs (under €75) will most likely met by the tenant. Bring along pay slips and tax declarations as back up. If you’re hoping to be able to leave the rental period before the contract runs out, ask for an escape clause in the contract which allows for you to break the contract (check the contract it may already be in there). Ask to see previous utility bills to estimate costs as these costs are not included within the rental cost or in the lease agreement.
A tenant with a long-term contract of more than a year may renew annually for three years unless the landlord states they want to reside in the property instead. The landlord must state this after a year and give 2 months notice. The shortest period of rental is 3 months or less which are categorised as holiday lets/rentals (viviendas de uso turístico). Here the properties are fully furnished and are almost always leased via a holiday company on behalf of a business or sole owner. The property may be leased for summer lettings, winter lettings or short holidays and the lessor must have a holiday rental licence.Short term rentals usually amount to the same as holiday lets, up to 3 months. Sometimes they may include bills and would generally be furnished.
Long term rentals can be furnished or unfurnished. They range from 3 month rental contracts to 12 and after 12 they can be renewable as the tenants are given more rights.The owner/landlord must have a energy efficiency certificate to declare how expensive a property is to heat. A short term tenancy actually means that the tenant or tenants shouldn’t technically be living in the property as their first residence and therefore their notice period will be shorter. It may be built into the tenancy agreement so do check such terms and conditions. Long term rentals particularly after one year have strong rights to remain in the property and notice periods to leave given by the lesser are at least 2 months. For all types of rental lengths the lessor must declare their rental income to local tax authorities annually.
The deposit most landlords ask for 1 months rent (which is the legal minimum), but they may also ask for 2 months. One months rent is usually paid for an unfurnished apartment and 2 is paid for a furnished apartment. Payments are usually made electronically at the beginning of the month but if you pay in cash, keep a receipt/ evidence of the transaction and are held by a third party. The deposit should be held by a third party as arranged by the rental company.
Unfurnished can mean a number of things. The rental property may come with no white goods which means you will need to buy them. If there are white goods already present be very careful to check with the landlord who is responsible for them. Ideally, get the details it in writing within the contract. Furnished rentals in Spain means having furniture such as tables, bookshelves, beds, chairs, cookware, utensils and basic decorative items. As the prices go up the furnishings also increase in quality with a nicer finish and more detail.
Buy Property
As of 2016 there has been a 7.05% rise in house prices in Spain (inflation added) as announced by the Bank of Spain. The market has gradually been strengthening year upon year and both Spaniards and foreigners are purchasing houses in a stronger and stronger market. There has been a sharp increase in foreign buyers over the last four years who now make up over three quarters of all sales.
Generally, estate agents (agencias inmobiliarias) should be a member of the GIPE or API professional associations. Spain lacks regulations over estate agents in the rental market so imitation is rife. The buyer can ask what the estate agents registration number is and if they are a member of the European Federation of Estate Agents. On top of these approaches, find out recommendations through word of mouth from trusted sources which is a reliable way of filtering out the rogue traders. Check out the local papers and magazines for reputed agencies and view estate agents websites for their full range of properties.
Agents fees should never be paid before the completion date or before the buyer signs the title deeds. Fees are usually between 5-10% of the sale price but fees can be as low as 3% which is the Spanish Association of Estate Agents suggested rate. This fee is included within the sale price so the total is one lump sum paid by the buyer. Commission can vary per estate agent so do check out different agents and make sure to find out whether this commision includes all possible extras such as taxes. For cheaper properties there may be a fixed rate agents fee of €6,000 instead of a percentage paid.
Using a Buyer’s Agent in Spain particularly one which speaks English is common practice in Spain. The agent works only for the buyer and usually costs between 1.5%-2.5% of the transaction price. It is useful for buyers who do choose a Buyer’s Agent because the agent is able to advise on negotiations, speak the local language and work with all the agents and vendors in the local area to ease the stress of the buyer managing this themselves. The agents must also have the same qualification as estate agents, and be affiliated to the same associations to be certified.
The following list are sites which offer advice and information on the rights of buyers when it comes to properties, loans and mortgages.
First in the process of buying a house, the buyer needs to settle on a mortgage. The buyer ideally should have settled on a lender/mortgage broker and have arranged the conditions of the mortgage before they have found the property they wish to purchase. Once the buyer has a property they wish to buy and an estate agent they want to work with the buyer needs to source a trusted, experienced and reputable Spanish lawyer (abogado) to assist with the process. During this time your lawyer gets to work checking the legal status of the property, ensuring that the bills and utilities have been paid, that it is free of charges, loans and debts and that the property has a license for improvements and planning permission. The lawyer will retrieve the A Nota Simple (legal report of the property) from the Property Registry (this can also be done in person by the buyer) to find out such information on the property.
One the property is fully available and cleared for purchase, then is the signing of the preliminary private sale contract (Contrato privado de compraventa) a contract which isn’t official in terms of registry but is legally binding between buyer and seller. A deposit is paid which is usually 5%-15% of the price of the property and is held via the estate agent in a bonded client account. Neither party can break the contract.
Now it is time to get NIE(Número de Identificación de Extranjeros) if you haven’t already. This is an identification and tax number which declares that you are registered with the Spanish Tax Authorities. New legislation as of 2016 means NIE numbers are indefinite despite previously only being valid for 3 months. You may however find that notaries will still refuse NICs more than 3 months old. Be savvy with timings. If you’ve been living in Spain more than 3 months, are a member of the EU and have had your NIE for the same amount of time, register with the government and get a certificate to show your number.
If you need to be represented so that the NIE can be retrieved in Spain you can arrange for a Power of Attorney (Poder Notarial) to get the NIE for you. A trustworthy person can represent you in the house buying process even without you being there, but the signing over must be in presence of a notary (notario). Next is the signing of the title deeds (Escritura de compraventa) by the buyer and seller which is done in the notarys office in front of the Notary Public Once this is signed you receive a copy (Copia Simple) which is also kept by the bank which keeps hold of it until the the clearing of the mortgage loan and the tax office gets a copy too.
After the deed has been signed then the property is registered with the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad). The utility companies will receive the information that the names have changed for the bills for the property. It’s now time to pay all of the bills, notary fees (complete with original invoices) Land Registry charges and settle it all with your lawyer. Taxes also need to be paid and whether you live in Spain as a resident or not. Non residents will pay both IBI council tax and imputed income tax whilst residents only play IBI council tax. The process is now complete.
The best way to find a reputable lawyer is through reliable recommendations via word of mouth. Try not to go with those recommended by the estate agent you are working with if possible. Contact the consulate of your country and ask them to give you a list of English speaking lawyers. Make sure the lawyer you go with is a lawyer of Spanish property law(derecho inmobiliario) and are listed in the books of the Spanish Law Society (colegio de abogados) or Local Law Society (local Colegio). You can visit your local local law office (colegio) and finding their registration number.
Generally, the costs of buying a house in Spain are as follows. 10%-12% of the price paid for the purchase will cover fees and taxes which include:notary fees which can cost from €400-€900, your lawyers fees from €1,000-€2,000 or a fixed fee of €2500 and commission may be on top totaling 1%-5% of the sale price. stamp duty of 1.5% of the mortgage deeds, valuation fees of about €350, Land Registry fees will cost around €200-450, if the buyer is purchasing the house with a mortgage the most is 1% of capital loans. If the property is a resale, ITP transfer tax will cost 8%-10%.If it’s a new build then the buyer doesn’t pay ITP but pays 10% VAT and 1.5% for stamp duty.
Unfortunately sometimes buyers are ripped off by unlicensed lawyers who add on charges and increase the sale price of the property and pocket the difference. Buyers should be extremely aware of such agents. On some occasions, buyers are pressurised into signing contracts without legal representation and without truly understanding the small print. Consequently, what they have signed may mean large expenses further down the line. Make sure you take independent legal advice from experienced and reputable professionals who represent you as the buyer not the seller too.
Register For Healthcare
The number to call throughout Spain for emergency assistance in the form of ambulance, police or fire brigade is 112. The services also have individual numbers which you can call for specific assistance such as the fire brigade (bomberos) on 080, ambulance (ambulancia) on 061 and national police (policía nacional) on 091. Make sure you state if you wish to be taken to a private or public hospital if you are taken in an ambulance. If you need to ask for A&E the Spanish word is urgencias. For information on the weather, traffic congestion and road accidents the number is 001. Furthermore, to call the local police (policía municipal) it’s 092 and if you need help with regards to a robbery, accident or assault then use 902 102 112. Sea rescue (salvamento y seguridad marítima) can be found at 900 202 202 and if you need the civil guard (guardia civil) it is 062.
The Spanish enjoy long lives with the average life expectancies for men totalling 80.1 years and 85.1 years for women Spain in the top 5 countries for the longest life expectancies in the world. Spains top causes of death are coronary heart disease, stroke, lung cancers and dementia/Alzheimers. The World Health Organisation states that nearly 1 in 4 people are obese (23.7%). This may seem surprising given the Spanish eat more fruit and vegetables and less bad fat than other countries in Europe and yet appear to be more affected by heart disease.
If you have a pre existing condition and need to take your own medication to Spain you should bring a letter from your GP with you confirming your need for medication and how much must be taken. For any further information about traveling with a known illness or requiring treatment when in Spain visit read the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality link here.
Foreigners can be treated in hospitals but costs may be high as they have not been paying social security contributions (seguridad social) which allows for access to the state run health system. EU and Swiss nationals can use the EHIC listed below in some circumstances for discounted medical rates and non EU nationals will always need medical insurance cover (until they have residence status) which will also be shown as evidence during the visa application process. Doctors issue patients with a booklet known as the Charter of Rights and Obligations (Carta de Derechos y Deberes) during treatments in hospitals so reading this before setting off can help clear up where costs may incur.
Originally, the healthcare system in Spain was managed by a centrally controlled government but nowadays the government decides the budget only and each of the 17 different autonomous communities takes responsibility for their own health care. The Spanish National Health System has a large range of well resourced health care centres and hospitals all over the country. Hospitals can comes in the form of private or public with some hospitals containing both facilities. Locals who pay social security contributions are entitled to free and discounted treatment at public hospitals. 18% of the Spanish population choose private health care and others who are registered attend state healthcare centres and hospitals. The General Health Law of 1986 (Ley 14/1986 General de Sanidad) states a right for foreigners and locals to access to healthcare services if they live in Spain so there are a number of options for those that will visit or live in Spain. Below is a breakdown of types of healthcare available and the eligibility of foreigners.
The examples below are entitled to free public healthcare:
• A person under 26 and studying in Spain
• A child who is a resident in Spain
• A woman who is with child in Spain
• A resident in Spain who is self employed or employed in the country and pays social security contributions
• Staying in Spain temporarily and with an EHIC
• A state pensioner
• A recently separated or divorced person from a partner who is registered with social security
• A resident in Spain who has been receiving specific state benefits
Those who can use the public healthcare system
EHIC (temporary)
Having an electronic or card version of the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) will aid a European foreigner access the state funded healthcare system which will allow for discounted or free costs for medical treatment in a public hospital. Only those in Europe are eligible for this card. If you can, make it clear whether you need a public or private hospital. The EHIC only covers services you receive from public hospitals and for visitors who are visiting Spain temporarily. If you are going to Spain specifically for medical treatment or to give birth, the EHIC doesn’t cover you. For more information check here.
Bi-lateral emergency treatment agreement for certain countries (temporary)
Non EU members from Peru, Chile, Brazil, Ecuador and Andorra (plus Tunisians and Moroccans working in Spain) who go to Spain for short visits can receive free emergency medical treatment in a preformed bi-lateral agreement.
Tarjeta sanitaria The tarjeta sanitaria is a medical card which allows EU members to access the same medical treatment as a Spanish local. It is dependant on the applicant on having a social security number (Documento de Afiliación a la Seguridad Social). You should go to your local social security office (Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social) to register to check your eligibility. Also needed is a Certificado de Empadronamiento, otherwise known as Padrón, a form indicating local registration to say you are officially residing in a location/neighbourhood. This is not an option for non EU members who have never contributed to social security tax to an EU country but those that have done so are be eligible.
Convenio Especial
For those who are not entitled to healthcare from the UK or Spain the Convenio Especial may work for you. The pay in type Spanish government run healthcare scheme requires those applying to have resided in Spain for at least one year, to have their Certificado de Empadronamiento which has been applied for and granted from the town hall and to not receive healthcare from the UK. Over 65s pay a monthly payment of monthly payment of €157 and those under 65 pay €60.
Non EU nationals
Non EU nationals once they are a resident of Spain are able to access the public healthcare system too and should have sufficient medical insurance/coverage until that date.
Private healthcare
Private health Insurance/plan
Private medical insurance is highly recommended for non EU members and anyone who doesn’t have a EHIC or qualifies for other medical discounts. This is also recommended for anyone visiting Spain for a short period of time. This health insurance will also cover you before you get your Tarjeta sanitaria. Private hospitals do not accept EHICs.
Healthcare services
The standard of healthcare in Spain is excellent offering a top quality and widely available public hospital system and private hospitals too. Equipment is state of the art and professionals who work there are skilled, knowledgeable and may speak a good level of English depending on where you go. The following is information on types of healthcare services.
Dentists
Unlike the UK for example, you will not find publically or privately run dentists or surgeries. All dentists charge fixed fees for patients. Generally, it is not expensive to go to the dentist and is cheaper than much of Europe. A standard check up with clean and x ray is €60. Payments are upfront and although teeth examinations, an initial consultation or check ups do not cost anything, you’ll need to pay for other services as standard. For emergencies it is common for A&E departments to have a dental ward where you can go. A useful phrase is ‘“necesito un dentista” (I need a dentist). EHIC will not cover dental emergencies.
Health centres (centros de salud)
Health centres are the most commonly found medical practices in Spain. They are the most commonly used by locals too. They are always local to a village or town and many are located in cities. In more rural areas and lesser populated regions local surgeries open their doors on specific days which see visits from staff who are on rotation to visit healthcare centres in the region. If needed, patients can receive a home visit too. This is where locals and foreigners can go to get referrals to hospital, to see specialists and register with a doctor.
Hospitals
Hospitals come in the form of private hospitals (privado) and public hospitals (asistencia sanitaria pública). If traveling to a hospital, try to bring a Spanish speaker/friend with you to help you. Some of the larger hospitals will have an A&E ward (urgencias) and this is where you will be taken in a medical emergency. Standards in private and state hospitals are comparably similar. Paying for private medical care like 18% of the Spanish population will get you quick referrals, vastly reduced waiting times and direct contact with medical specialists if required. The Public hospitals offer the same standards of care but longer waits for appointments, referrals and visits to specialists. It should be noted that different areas of Spain provide different treatments so traveling for treatment is something which can occur.
For full care for patients, the emphasis is on family to help out with the upkeep of the patients needs. Family come in with meals, clean bedding and clothes and look after the patients basic needs. Usually medical assistance is carried out by nurses and doctors and family and friends help with much of the rest. Visiting hours are casual and those who know the patient can spend many hours with them watching tv or talking.
Tips for visiting the hospital
During every visit to public and private Spanish hospitals, you are required to bring your government issued health card (Sistema de Información Poblacional or SIP) or proof of private insurance and another form of ID to claim free or subsidised healthcare services. It is only in an emergency that you are admitted to hospital, all over instances would require a referral from a doctor. To get a designated doctor you must have your health care in place then choose your doctor (médico de cabecera) to be the provider of your primary care. They advise and refer you to the hospital or to see a specialist if necessary. Hospital doctors don’t give out prescriptions so if you leave the hospital and still require medication it is important that you retrieve the hospital medical report to take to a pharmacy so that they can get you the prescriptions you need.
Counseling services available in English
Costa Blanca Samaritans
Confidential helpline with English speaking staff based on Costa Blanca. Monday to Friday, 19:00-22:00.
Tel: 902 88 35 35
Suicide, crisis and support line (El Teléfono de la Esperanza)
Helpline for Spanish and foreign citizens.
902 500 002
Depression Alliance
UK charity offering help to those with depression in Spain with a helpline for contact.
0044 845 123 2320
Red Cross
Charity which helps immigrants, the elderly, minors, those with drug addiction and those with HIV. The helpline offers its services to family and friends of those concerned too.
Tel: 915 336 665 or 915 334 120
Tourist helpline and emergency number:
Helpline for foreigners who need assistance during their travel. English speaking staff.
Tel: 902 102 112
Open A Bank Account
Everyday banking for the average person in Spain is broken down into two types of institutions: bancos and cajas. Bancos are public limited companies or privately owned and are usually found in the form of national chains, widely found. Cajas have the local touch with an emphasis on ethics, trust and a more sociable approach to their customers. They are owned by the state with some cajas consisting of many branches over a region and others only a sparse amount. Both bancos and cajas are easy to find locally with over 170 financial institutions located over the country. ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are also frequent throughout Spain and with 24 hour accessibility. To withdraw euros for your travels they take Cirrus, Citibank, American Express and VISA cards. The main local banks in Spain are Banco Popular, BBVA, La Caixa, Banco de Sabadell, ING Direct and Santander.
The following are four frequently used banks by expats which offer free current accounts with debit cards.
Banco Mediolanum
Store locator
Website (In English)
Email: Info@mediolanum.es
Phone: (+34) 932 535 400
This bank is online only though it has 600 consultants or ‘Family Bankers’ who are assigned to each client as their manager and point of contact. There are also offices clients can visit. Ensure you have a banker which speaks English and they can help you with any queries. Expats often choose the Cuenta Unica current account with the necessity that the client pays two bills from that account or sets it up as direct deposit. In the first 6 months of having the account the interest rate is 1.8%. Your Residency card is necessary to open this account. Internet banking is not yet in English, but online translation tools can help.
ING Direct
Store locator
Website (Requires English translation tool)
Phone: (+34) 901 020 901 or 91 206 66 55
Available accounts are Cuenta Sin Nomina whereby the individual pays a €600 deposit with the same amount being paid in monthly plus a minimum balance of €2000. Alternatively, the Cuenta Nomina account can be opened with no minimum balance but a direct deposit is in place. The accounts don’t have interest rates on them, but there is a Cuenta Naranja savings account which does. The accounts are a great idea for expats who are residing in Spain already and have their residency card as this is required to open an account. Online banking is not in English but ATMs are widely available.
Evo Banco
Store locator
Website (English translation required)
Phone: (+34) 910 900 900
Offers Cuenta joven for individuals aged from 18-28 years of age where the individual can open this current account with no annual fees. Offers Cuenta Intelligente account for individuals over 28 years of age if 5 bills are paid via this account through immediate payment or direct debit. If the accounts hold more than €3000 then a 1.5% interest is applied and 0.5%. Expats can go into the branch to set either account up with just a passport. The accounts are a great idea for expats who are residing in Spain and have their residency card as this is required to open an account. Online banking is in English.
When it comes to UK and US banks in Spain although they share the same bank name you will find they operate almost entirely differently to your home bank so don’t go in expecting the same service.
UK and US banks operating in Spain are as follows.
Barclays Bank plc (corporate and investment)
Store locator
Website
Email: spain.corporate@barclays.com
Phone: (+34) 91 336 07 79
Range of corporate advisory services, banking and investment accounts for corporate, government and institutional clients
CitiBank España
Store locator
Website
Phone: (+34) 91 538 41 00
48 branches throughout Spain. The bank offers free international money transfers from a Citibank account to another in any of 26 countries. English online banking. Citibank offers both savings and current accounts used by expats.
HSBC (specialising in corporate customers)
Store locator
Website
Phone: (+34) 91 4566 100
Specialising in corporate banking for enterprises and institutional investors
Generally, banks are open from 8.30am- 1.30pm/2pm from Monday to Friday depending on each branch of bank and the location. City and town located banks may have longer opening hours whilst more remote banks may not open in the afternoon.
The accounts offered in banks vary due to your status so you will either be applying for an account as a resident or non resident. When opening a bank account the individual will need to go to the bank and conduct the procedure in person. If you aren’t confident in your Spanish skills and if the members of staff don’t have an English speaker on site, book an appointment with a consultant who speaks English. Once you are face to face with a consultant you can show your paperwork for your resident or non resident status as found below.
Resident Account (Cuenta para Residentes)
Resident Accounts for those who have a DNI number or NIE see lower fees charges on their account and consequently the client is able to open their account in a foreign currency or in euros. Photo identification will be needed to show upon opening an account (Passport) and bring along documents such as an Empadronamiento, proof of address, your NIE and evidence of employment status.
Non Resident Account
Fees for opening and maintaining a Non Resident Account are higher than a Resident Account and every 2 years the bank will run a check to see if you are still a non resident. Those applying for this account need to visit the local police office with their passport to hand and make an application for a certificate of non residency (Certificados de No Residencia). Once it has been completed in around 10 days time, the individual returns to the station to collect it. It is then presented to the bank. It should be a fast and easy process just be aware that you understand the terms and conditions of the account you are opening ie. the bank charges, fees or deposits necessary. Cheque Books are not issued automatically so if you do wish for one, request it. Almost all banks charge a fee each year which covers administration costs for current accounts. It usually amounts to €15–30.
Generally, personal banking accounts come in the following types.
Savings Account (Cuenta de Ahorro) is an account with limited access to your money but higher interest rates than other types of accounts. There may be more charges for additional account holder. Comes with cheques/cheque books.
Deposit Account (Cuenta de Depósito) is a useful types of savings accounts which are similar to ISAs whereby the customer doesn’t use the account like a normal savings account but has a sum of money in there earning high interest. They cannot easily access or withdraw the funds with immediate effect.
Current/checking account (cuenta corriente) is the most common account for everyday use. Current accounts don’t have a great deal of interest, if any at all.
Credit cards and debit cards can be used in ATM machines and for transactions in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Credit cards are being accepted and used more and more in retail shops too. Cheques are generally not accepted tender. When carrying out any transaction such as at an ATM or shop make sure any charge is in euros and not in your home currency as this can cost more. The phrase Quiero pagar en euros, por favor (I want to pay in euros please) can help. Contactless is an up and coming payment system with Spain in the top 3 countries in Europe to use this method. Android Pay and Apple Pay are rare. Be realistic, cities will have far more developed payment methods and acceptance than tiny villages. Cash is often commonly used by tourists and locals particularly in rural areas.
Banking in Spain is generally considered to be efficient and accessible in day to day exchanges. ATMs have received some negative press for making money by offering to charge the user in their home currency (for example GBP) meaning the fees will be higher and reliant on the ATMs own currency conversation.This is known as Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). It is advised to always select euros whilst in Spain.In recent years the preferentes scandal saw Banco Popular stand accused of lending customers money and then using these funds to buy shares for the bank; the bank which has amounted a large amount of debt itself.
Expats applying for an overdraft or loan need to be a resident of Spain with their resident card, bank statements, employment status, residency status and potentially their NIE to hand. Banks also look at your credit rating so do bring along evidence from your home country and if this isn’t accepted you’ll need to do a Spanish credit check instead. With loans, a guarantor is almost always required and the bank manager will require a business plan when the customer requests a commercial loan. The bank will also require examples which show that the business which the customer is requesting a loan for has already been making some money, which understandably isn’t always possible. Usually as non residents do not have evidence of income they will not be considered for applying for an overdraft or loan.
It is possible for both non residents and residents to request a Spanish mortgage.
Learn The Language
The Spanish language derives from the Ibero-Romance group of languages with Latin as the core language and Spanish deriving from it as far back as the 5th century. The official language of Spain is Spanish (known as Castilian) but there are also other co-official languages with official status. Spanish Sign Language is an officially recognised language and others are found in autonomous communities such as Galician spoken in Galicia (origins from Portuguese), Basque spoken in the Basque country and the Balearic Islands and Catalan spoken in Catalonia. Further regional dialects are Occitan (lenga dòc), Aranese and Valencian found in Catalonia. Additionally there is a variation of Catalan known as Mallorquín and a dialect known as Leonese spoken in León. There are many other small minorities of languages spoken including Judeo-Spanish and Extremaduran which are still spoken in pockets of communities today.
Spanish is the most commonly spoken language by the local population (99%) with the autonomous communities speaking their regions dialect of Galician, Basque and Catalan too. The most commonly found foreign languages are English, French and German with the other main immigrant languages being Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Arabic, Ukrainian, Romanian and Latin American Spanish.
English can be found fairly easily particularly in popular foreign communities and areas where tourists holiday such as Benidorm, Malaga and the Costa Del Sol. Likewise, in cosmopolitan cities of Madrid, Barcelona for example plus popular holiday destinations of the Balearic Islands English can be commonly found. Within the English speakers will be the steady immigrant population from eastern europe and beyond. The hospitality and tourism industries will always have English speakers widely available from fluent tour guides and to just a few essential words by local waiters or taxi drivers. Head into the countryside and more rural locations and smaller towns you will barely find any English spoken at all. It has been recorded that 65% of the Spanish population do not Speak English. English is commonly spoken amongst the younger generation and younger adults but chances are those of middle age and above will known little.
When it comes to business meetings and conversations, international business will likely be conducted in English and local business will be conducted in Spanish. It would be expected that Spanish professionals have a grasp of English if they work alongside other international businesses as this can be a bridging language. Locally, conversations would be conducted in Spanish so an expat wanting to to gain trust and good relations should be able to carry out meetings in the native language.
English speakers can survive in Spain without learning the local language if they were to live in cities or resorts where tourists often visit or foreigners reside in. A basic to competent level of Spanish would aid your integration into the local culture and help you understand local nuances and the culture to a better degree. All television and film is dubbed in Spanish, signs are in Spanish and aside from resort or tourist heavy areas, restaurant menus are often all in Spanish so learning even the basics is essential for day to day living. Expats who live in Spain vary with their dedication to learning the language but even those who live in foreign dominated areas may learn the very basics in order to go shopping or order food and drinks.
The younger generation of children and young adults will be able to speak English to varying levels but middle aged and above unless working in English speaking industries or in cities are far less likely to understand or speak English.
There are a large amount of workers in Spain whose first language is English. These jobs employ teachers in language schools, colleges, Universities, in primary schools and secondary schools plus language schools. Spain is always recruiting English teachers and there is a steady flow of job opportunities all year round. Translation and interpreting jobs are usually done by native Spanish speakers.
There are plenty of tutors, language schools and online resources to help you ease into learning Spanish before you go there, and whilst there.
Language schools:
Eurolingua
Choice of online lessons, Eurolingua Language Homestay Immersion Programs with stay with local family and choice of tuition hours, and officially recognised qualifications such as DELE (Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language) Go to school Spanish classroom lessons and a whole range of other options.
Email: Choose particular language school and contact via ‘Request more information’ or contact or follow the student submissions link to an online form.
Website: http://www.eurolingua.com/
Lingua schools
City located block of 7 Spanish language schools which allow for group classroom learning in a friendly informal setting. Range of courses from beginners to DELE.
Tel:+35 93 1761 536
Email: info@linguaschools.com
Website: http://www.linguaschools.com/
Diverbo Pueblo Español
Language school specialising in Intensive 8 day immersion course for low intermediate level speakers. Other courses available too.
Tel:+34 913 913 400
Email: learnspanish@diverbo.com
Website: http://puebloespanol.com/
Enforex
Spanish language schools which offer intensive courses, courses aimed at business language and professionals, one to one classes, DELE and the option to learn Spanish alongside activities like Flamenco and Mediterranean cooking.
Tel:+34 915 943 776
Email: Via contact form on website
Website: http://www.enforex.com/
Private Tutors
Find My Favourite Teacher
Website with search engine for finding private tutors per region to meet for 1 to 1 lessons or online lessons.
Website: http://www.findmyfavouriteteacher.com
1H Language School
The school offers 1-2-1 lessons with an assigned Spanish tutor found in major cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Cadiz, Valencia etc.
Contact details: Contact form on website, listing each language school by location.
Website: http://www.ihspain.com/
Alhambra Instituto Internacional
Offers private Spanish lessons for one or two students. Hours can be chosen with at least one lesson a week usually 55mins long.
Email:alhambra@alhambra-instituto.org
Tel: +34 952 204 877
Website: http://alhambra-instituto.org/
Useful language websites
Website with information on grammar, slang terms plus dictionary and translation tool.
http://www.spanishdict.com/
Useful online translation tool:
https://www.babelfish.com/
Extensive site for learning Spanish grammar with exercises and notes
https://121spanish.com/
Choose A School
Education is Spain is very much of paramount importance to the country. It is proud to claim excellent literacy rates of 98.7% for males and 97.5% for females and a very high enrolment ratio of children in accredited courses at 94%. Compulsory education in Spain begins aged 6 the start of primary school and ends aged 16 at the end of secondary school. Homework is a hot topic for debate at currently with research from a PISA study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development stating that Spanish children have 6.5 hours of homework a week which is considerably more than almost all European countries. In 2016 parents of such children and some teachers staged a homework strike whereby homework was ignored for a month.
The academic year begins midway through September and finishes midway through June. There are 3 terms divided into 11 week blocks. The first term starts in September and breaks for two weeks for the Christmas holidays in December. The next term starts shortly after the festival of Epiphany on the 6th of January breaking for two weeks in March or April for the Easter holidays and the final term finishes midway through june for the long summer holidays which span 10-11 weeks. On public holidays and religious days schools will close if these dates coincide with term time. As dependant on the comunidad autonoma fiestas may result in school closures.
Nursery school (guarderias) 0-2 years
Working parents often use nurseries for low cost day care when they go to work. There are state run local nurseries and English speaking nurseries some of which are private. Spanish nurseries can help expat children get a head start with learning the language. Hours are fairly flexible, AM, PM sessions are common a few or all weekdays are possible. Private schools may have nurseries next to primary schools so the child will progress to the new school stage easily. These nurseries look after children from 2-6 years.
Pre School/ Kindergarten (escuela infantil) 3-5 years
Kindergarten offers a more structured routine with an emphasis on basic learning with some lessons in art, music and individual and teamwork. Teachings centre on understanding road safety and other life subjects. Self esteem and relationships with other children are taught. Whilst kindergarten is voluntary, many parents still enroll their children during these formative years. Hours vary per pre school.
Primary school (educación or escuela primaria) 6-12 years
Primary education is compulsory. The average primary school day begins at 9am with a structured table of learning until 12pm then a 2.5-3 hour break for lunch, a siesta then starting up again at 3pm-5pm. Extra curricular activities take up the afternoon. Children are often given a snack at 5pm. The primary school system is structured in blocks of 2 years each where they have one class teacher for 2 years. Children study a second language, science, maths, general knowledge, geography and other subjects for a rounded knowledge of life and academia. The teaching focuses on the needs and abilities of each child and lessons are therefore structured around this.
Secondary school (Educación Secundaria Obligatoria or ESO) 12-16 years
After finishing primary school students move onto secondary school. School days start at 8.30/9am and finish at 3pm but this ranges per region. Lessons consist of wide selection of subjects with both core subjects and the studying of visual arts, technology, music and natural and social sciences. Also included is the language of the autonomous community the school is in, if available. Those that achieve the academic standards to pass secondary school after 4 years get a graduado en educación secundaria certificate and are able to go to upper secondary education and those that do not are given a (certificado de escolaridad) so that if they choose to they can attend vocational school (formación professional) to specialise in a career. Students can also enter work at this age as compulsory education finishes.
Vocational school (formación profesional) 16-19 years
State funded schools for 16-18 year olds. The schooling runs in two streams, the first is called grado medio is available to students who received their graduado en educación secundaria certificate and are choosing to undertake vocational training.The second is known as grado superior and is specific to students who passed the baccalaureate. There is an emphasis on studying languages, IT and telecommunication where three quarters of the students time is spent studying their topic and the rest of the time is hands on training in the industry. Also common are hairdressing, electrician and plumbing courses.
Upper secondary school (Bachillerato/ Ciclos Formativos de Grado Medio) 16-18 years
After secondary school students can carry on with their education for 2 more years for the Bachillerato certificate, a necessary certificate to attend University. Students have core subjects and a specialist area. 9 subjects are studied with exams each year culminating in al mark up to 10. Once the Bachillerato is passed, the examination of university can be sat. (Selectivo). The student over the process of 3 days undertakes 7-8 exams and will again be graded up to 10. Both scores combined will decide what they can study for degree level.
Bachelors degrees (Carrera (Diplomatura 3 years Ciclos Formativos de Grado Superior) ) 3-4 years
Bachelors degrees come in many fields including engineering, sciences, arts and humanities and law. Students can live in campus or stay in other accommodation. Universities can issue non official degrees or degrees. They are valid for inside the EHEA. Students undertake exams throughout their study.
Masters degrees (Posgrado) 1-2 years
Students who undertake a postgraduate study must have a bachelors degree for example in archeology or journalism must create a thesis and defend it in their final year of study.
Doctoral degree or PhD (Doctorado) 3-4 years
After the student has achieved a masters degree they may undertake a doctoral degree. Divided into two parts, one which involves research and the other which requires 60 credits the student defends their doctoral thesis in the final stages of study.
State schools (colegios públicos)
State funded schools with sometimes large classes often 30. Limited extracurricular activities which are paid for as are books for study. Spanish is the main language of teaching (depending on autonomous region) whilst some in areas with a high population of foreigners may be bilingual.
Privately run schools funded by the State (colegios concertados)
If one quarter of students are Spanish then these private schools receive subsidised rates and fees from the state. They are otherwise mostly fee paying schools. Such schools can be bilingual, co-educational or Catholic (which received funding from the church). These schools generally have school uniforms, smaller classes and a good reputation in academic results.
International schools (colegios internationales)
International schools are fee paying schools which offer multi language teaching, internationally recognised homework, various curriculums a grading system based on North American or British standards. A popular choice for expats, international schools can meet the needs of non native students with a high standard of education and easier integration as they continue their studies without the disruption of a new curriculum.
When it comes to grading systems for primary and secondary schools, Spain uses a 10 point scale with certificates for top grades. The US system sees a letter grading system from F-A and UK schools using various combinations of letters and number grading. UK students always wear uniforms. It would only be in state sixth form colleges where their own clothes could be worn. In Spain most children do not wear uniforms though in international and private schools they would. In America it would only be private institutions where uniforms are worn. The educational system in Spain is based on the Fundamental Law of Education (Ley Orgánica de Educación) which sees compulsory education from 6 years to 16 years. Comparatively in the England compulsory schooling starts at 4-5 years (depending on birthday) to 16 years with the student needing to be either in vocational training, volunteering and education or working an apprenticeship until they are 18. In the US compulsory education it depends on which state the student lives in. It can range from 5-8 years and end from 16-18 years.
State schools have a set quota for students so places are awarded depending on those who apply first. For some state schools in populated areas it can mean competition as there is a problem of overcrowding and large class sizes in places such as Costa Del Sol which can be problematic. Competition also lies mostly in international schools where academic excellence is strived for as the student enters a world famous institute. Many international schools have a waiting list so apply early.
For state school applications the period begins from May until September where parents can register at the school directly, or sometimes town hall( empadronamiento). Each region has different requirements so do check and you’ll need to call the school you want to enrol in advance to ensure you can gather all the information required. The school can inform you if you need to get any documents translated. Make sure you have to hand originals of the childs birth certificate, immunisation records, proof of address, rental contract/deed and your passport. Next comes an interview from the school where you’ll hand over a copy of your childs academic transcript. It may be that the child needs to take a Spanish proficiency exam at the school too.
Applying to international schools sees you contact them directly and to continue with the application process which may mean forms sent you in person to be filled out or an online application form. School reports, exam results and other necessary documents will be requested and the school will contact you for an interview.
After school clubs and extracurricular activities vary according to the location of the school and whether it is a state run, private or international institution. If it is a state school in a town then after school clubs or activities wouldn’t generally occur, sports and other activities would be undertaken outside of the school in the many indoor or outdoor sports clubs and organisation which run throughout Spain. Popular sports played are volleyball, football, tennis and table tennis. If the state school is in a city like Barcelona or Madrid then there are a higher range of activities with a variety of sports plus ajedrez (chess) canto (singing) danza (ballet) and I.T. Private and international schools also offer extra curricular activities of this nature as well as music, drama and more specialist activities. Children are often active outside of school be it joining social clubs or sports clubs and as a result after school activities and extracurricular activities aren’t so common as in the rest of Europe.
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