So, you're planning on moving to the Costa Blanca. You've been dreaming of the sun-drenched lifestyle, from the vibrant city of Alicante to the beautiful coastal towns of Jávea, Altea, Dénia, and Torrevieja. The Costa Blanca is one of the best places to live in Spain, and you're ready to make it your home.

Welcome! It’s a life-changing decision. But between the dream of Mediterranean living and the reality lies a bit of paperwork. Spanish bureaucracy can seem complex, but it's entirely manageable with a solid plan.

This actionable guide is your complete pre-move checklist for Spain in 2025. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from how to get an NIE number and securing your visa to finding a reliable gestor to make the process smooth.

Phase 1: Your 6-12 Month Plan for Moving to the Costa Blanca

This initial phase is about strategic planning. Getting these major requirements sorted early is crucial for a stress-free move to Spain.

1. Research Your Spanish Visa & Residency Path (For Non-EU Citizens)

For any non-EU citizen, including those from the UK or US, your visa is the first and most important step.

• Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): The most popular route for those who can financially support themselves without working in Spain (e.g., retirees, individuals with passive income). You must prove sufficient funds.
• Golden Visa: An option if you plan a significant investment, such as buying property worth over €500,000.
• Work Visa: If you have a job offer from a Spanish company.

Action: Visit the official Spanish Consulate website for your country to find the most current financial requirements and document lists for 2025. Start gathering proof of funds and other necessary paperwork immediately.

2. Gather Core Documents (with Apostille & Translation)

You will need several official documents. The process of legalizing them takes time.

• Key Documents: Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, and a police background check (e.g., ACRO for UK citizens, FBI for US).
• Crucial Legalisation: These documents must be legalized with an Apostille of The Hague. Afterwards, they must be translated into Spanish by an officially certified traductor jurado. Do not use a standard translation service.

Phase 2: The Nitty-Gritty (3-6 Months Before You Move)

Now you’ll start tackling the key administrative tasks that form the foundation of your new life in Spain.

3. How to Get Your Spanish NIE Number (Before You Move)

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your Spanish foreigner identification number. You need an NIE for everything: opening a bank account, buying property, getting internet, and registering for taxes.

• Actionable Pro-Tip: The easiest way to get an NIE before moving to Spain is by applying at your local Spanish Consulate. This allows you to hit the ground running when you arrive. You will need to book an appointment and submit the EX-15 application form along with the Modelo 790 Código 012 fee payment form.

4. Why You Need a Gestor in Spain (And How to Find One)

A gestor (or gestoría) is a professional administrative consultant who is an expert at navigating Spanish bureaucracy. Hiring one can be the best investment you make in your move. They can handle residency applications, tax registrations, and more, saving you time and preventing costly mistakes.

• Action: Search online for "gestoría for expats in Alicante" or your target area. Check reviews and ask for recommendations in Costa Blanca expat forums on Facebook.

Phase 3: The Final Stretch (1-3 Months Out)

The move is now just around the corner! It's time to put the practical pieces in place.

5. Opening a Spanish Bank Account for Expats

A Spanish bank account is essential for paying your rent and utility bills. While it can be tricky from abroad, it's possible.

• Action: Contact major banks like Sabadell, CaixaBank, and BBVA, which often have dedicated services for expats and non-resident accounts. To open one, you will typically need your passport and your new NIE number. Your gestor can often provide assistance here.

6. Finding a Home on the Costa Blanca

Whether you're renting or buying, now is the time to search.

• Action: Use top Spanish property portals like Idealista, Fotocasa, and Kyero. If you're planning to rent, we strongly advise a viewing trip. Never send a deposit for a long-term rental without seeing it or having a trusted representative view it for you.
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First Steps After Arriving in Spain

Congratulations, you've moved to the Costa Blanca! Here are the first two things you must do.

• Get Your Empadronamiento: You must register your address at your local town hall (Ayuntamiento). This certificate, the padrón, is essential for accessing local services, registering for healthcare, and completing your residency.
• Apply for Your TIE Card: The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is your physical biometric residency card. Once you arrive on your visa, you must attend an appointment with the national police to have your fingerprints taken and apply for this card.

FAQ: Moving to the Costa Blanca

Q: Can I move to the Costa Blanca from the UK after Brexit?

A: Yes! UK citizens can move to the Costa Blanca but are now subject to the same immigration rules as other non-EU citizens. The Non-Lucrative Visa is the most common path for retirees.

Q: How much money do I need for the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain for 2025?

A: You must prove you have passive income or savings equivalent to at least 400% of Spain's IPREM index annually for the main applicant, plus 100% for each additional family member. This figure changes yearly, so check the official consulate website for the exact 2025 amount.

Q: What is the difference between Costa Blanca North and Costa Blanca South?

A: Generally, the Costa Blanca North (e.g., Jávea, Dénia, Altea) is known for being greener, more rugged, and traditionally more expensive. The Costa Blanca South (e.g., Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa) is flatter, more arid, and offers a wider range of property prices, popular with many expat communities.

By following this checklist, your move to the sunny Costa Blanca will be as smooth and stress-free as possible. ¡Bienvenidos a España!