7 shocking facts about moving to Alicante: what is hidden from expans
Why is Alikante is not just a resort, but an ideal place for life
According to the latest data, in Spain it is already living 5.6 million expansand their number is growing. But not everyone knows that Alicante — This is not only the sun, beaches and sangria. This is a city with a unique combination of European comfort and the Mediterranean lifestyle.
If you are seriously considering moving, that’s what you need to know to Buying a ticket. And yes, these are not just tips — it is Survival in the Spanish bureaucracy.
1. Nie: Your pass to Spanish life
Without this number, you are nobody. Nie (núMero de Identificación de Extranjero) — This is your Spanish «passport» for:
- Banking bank discoveries
- Real estate purchases
- Registration of insurance
- Obtaining a driver’s license
Council from local: Make it straightaway After arrival. Without it, even renting an apartment will be difficult.
Where to get in Alicante:
- OFICINA de Extranjeros: C. de la Ebanistería, 4
- OFICINA de Extranjeros: C. Campo de Mirra, 6
Online application: icp.administraacionelectronica.gob.es
2. Banks: how not to lose money on commissions
Your card will be from the house steal You have money. Each cash withdrawal is 3-5% of the commission. Solution?
Open the account in the Spanish bank. Here are the best options:
- N26 — Free account, IBAN, Bizum (local payments system)
- Wise — For international translations
- Santander — If you need a physical office
Important: Some banks require NIE and the registration address (Empadronamiento).
3. Medicine: State vs. Private
The state system is free, but:
- Verse for reception — up to 3 months
- The choice of a doctor is limited
Private insurance costs 50-70 €/month and gives:
- Reception on the day of circulation
- The choice of specialists
- Urgent operations without queue
Popular insurers: Axa, Mapfre, Adeslas.
4. Sim card: How not to pay for roaming
Your mobile tariff from home is robbery. Spanish operators offer:
- Unlimited Internet — from 10 €/month
- International calls — from 5 €/month
Where to buy:
- Movistar, Orange, Vodafone — in stores
- Symio, Lebara — online
Advice: For registration you need a passport or NIE.
5. Language: How not to remain «dumb» in Spain
Yes, there are a lot of English -speaking in alikant, but:
- Work without Spanish — only in IT
- Bureaucracy — only in Spanish
The best schools in Alikant:
- Proyecto Español — Intensive courses
- Viva la Lengua — For beginners
6. Work: where to look and how to get a job
If you are from the EU, you are lucky. If not, you need a work visa.
Where to look for a job:
Important: In IT and tourism, they often do not require Spanish.
7. Rent: How not to fall into a trap
Expatites tips:
- Pay 3-4 months in advance (deposit + commissions)
- Check neighbors and district (some streets — «zone of silence»)
- Look for Idealista And Enalqualer
Final advice: do not believe the «perfect» photo
Many apartments rent on the one hand where there is light. And on the other, darkness and noise. Come personally Before signing the contract.
“I rented an apartment from the photo — it turned out that the windows are going to the construction site. Now I pay a fine for terminating the contract, ”says an expat from Alikant.
FAQ: answers to the hottest questions
1. How much does life cost in Alikant?
The average budget per person: 1,200-1 800 €/month (without rent).
2. Do I need to know Spanish for moving?
For life — no, for work — depends on the sphere.
3. How to get nie without a visa?
Come to Spain on a tourist visa and apply within 90 days.
4. What documents are needed for rent?
Passport, NIE, income certificate, sometimes a guarantor.
5. Is it possible to work remotely from Spain?
Yes, but you need to issue a tax residence.
6. How to open a business in Alicante?
You need to register with Mercantil and get NIE.
7. What taxes pay expans?
Personal income tax-19-47%, VAT-21%, real estate tax-0.4-1.1%.
8. Where is it better to live: in the center or on the outskirts?
The center is expensive and noisy, the outskirts are cheaper and calmer.
9. How to get Spanish citizenship?
After 10 years of residence or marriage with a citizen of Spain.
10. What are the best beaches in Alicante?
Playa Del Postiguet (center), Playa de San Juan (Long), Playa de la almadraba (solitude).
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