Learn Spanish or Other Languages Spoken In Spain

Spaniards, particularly millennials, speak a second language, and around 27% of the Spanish population speaks English. However, if you’re Belgian and speak Dutch, French, or German fluently, blending in may be tacky as such languages aren’t widely spoken in Spain.

Before you move from Belgium, you can acquire Spanish and learn the languages of the Spanish region where you intend to reside. Such regional languages include Basque, Galician, and Catalan. There are effective language learning apps you can start with, such as Memrise or Duolingo. 

You can find them on the Google Play Store or Apple Store. However, it’s perfect if you’d instead purchase an online beginner course on the Spanish language or hire a Spanish language teacher. 

Learning languages spoken in Spain will open up more job opportunities and make it easier for you to integrate into the country’s social system. 

Visa Requirements 

Visa requirements are a crucial factor to consider when moving from Belgium to Spain. Of course, Belgium and Spain are both members of the European Union (EU). Thus, as a European or Belgian citizen, you have the right to freedom of movement within EU member countries. 

Thus, you don’t need a visa as a Belgian or European. However, there are some conditions you must meet as an EU citizen when moving from Belgium to Spain, and they include: 

Registering With The Authorities

European citizens must register with the local authorities within three months of arriving in Spain to obtain a residence certificate. 

Applying For a Residence Card

European citizens can apply for a residence card after staying for five years in Spain. The card confirms their right to live in Spain permanently. 

Work permits

Generally, an EU citizen moving from Belgium to Spain doesn’t need a work visa, but some professions may require a work permit. You can check with the authorities at the Spanish embassy in Belgium to confirm if your profession requires a work permit. 

Self-employment Situations 

When moving internationally from Belgium to Spain as an EU citizen and intending to start a business or work as a self-employed individual, you’ll need to obtain a business license by registering with the Spanish Social Security system. 

However, if you’re moving from Belgium to Spain as a non-European citizen, you'll usually need to apply for a visa. 

You'll need a study visa if you’re relocating because of schooling. If it’s for work, you’ll need a work visa. If you’re retiring, you’ll need a retiree visa. Choosing the proper visa that suits your relocation condition is crucial. 

The Spanish Job Market

Spain has a competitive job market. Thus, before you move from Belgium to Spain, you should understand basic Spanish. If you’re looking for greener pastures on Spanish soil, you’ll be better positioned for better job opportunities if you speak Spanish or other regional languages spoken in Spain.

Social Integration

Integrating into Spanish society may take time, especially if you don’t speak the language. To ease things up, you could join local groups, clubs, and expat communities to network with people, make new friends, and blend in. Try to attend cultural events to learn Spanish local customs and be as social as possible.

Here’s a breakdown of the difference in cost of living between Belgium and Spain. 

Generally, Spain is cheaper to live in than Belgium. However, living expenses vary from place to place in both countries. Thus, research the Spanish region or city you intend to reside in. 

You can bring your pet along when moving from Belgium to Spain. However, you must obtain an EU pet passport and ensure your pet is vaccinated and microchipped. 

You can hire professional international movers to transport your things to your Spanish residence or rent a van and transport yourself to Spain. However, choosing the latter will be pretty stressful for you. 

Of course, you can. But after a specific time, you may need to replace it with a Spanish license. 

Sure you can. Many Belgian degrees are recognized in Spain. However, you may need to get them certified by the Spanish authorities. 

Are you planning international, intrastate, or interstate moves? Moovick is here to make your relocation smooth. We have professional international movers who can transport your belongings to your destination. 

We also offer expertise in handyman service and various service providers, such as floor installers, gardeners, and cleaners, to simplify your relocation. Contact us today to book your moment for a smooth transition.