5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Move to Spain
- Elizabeth Pinkerton
- Sep 12
- 5 min read
It might seem surprising coming from someone who helps Americans move to Spain, but moving abroad is not right for everyone. Relocating is a big life change, and clarity about your goals, expectations, and personality is essential if you want the move to be successful.
I encourage my clients to think deeply about what they really want, to identify their expectations, and to test their assumptions before booking a one-way ticket. It’s also why I created the Spain Readiness Assessment: to help people get clear on whether a move is a fit for them.
Here are five common reasons why people struggle in their move to Spain.
1. You Don’t Qualify for a Visa
The first hurdle is also the most important: making sure you can legally live in Spain. Spain has several visa options, including work visas, non-lucrative visas, and entrepreneur visas. Each comes with its own requirements, timelines, and costs.
Many Americans overlook or postpone this step until it’s too late. Even if you meet the initial requirements, paperwork errors can delay or block approval. Starting early, double-checking documents, and considering professional guidance can save time, money, and stress.
💡Tip: Start with a visa check before making major plans. Make sure your move is legally feasible from the start. |
👉 You can read more about visa options in my post: How to Get a Spanish Residence Visa: Your 3-Step Guide
2. You’re Unprepared for the Tax Implications
Spain has its own tax system, and as an American, you also have obligations to the IRS. If you’re not prepared, you could face unexpected expenses.
Consider that Spanish taxes differ from U.S. taxes in deadlines, deductions, and reporting requirements. Combined with U.S. obligations, the process can quickly become overwhelming.
I recently saw someone in a Facebook forum who was shocked to learn that Spain would tax his U.S. Social Security benefits. He had already moved, and the news came as an unpleasant — and expensive — surprise.
Without preparation, small mistakes can lead to fines or headaches that derail your plans.
💡Tip: Understand Spanish tax requirements, consider consulting a cross-border accountant, and budget for any additional costs so nothing surprises you. |
3. You Prefer What You're Used To
Life in Spain is great, but it’s not the same as life in the U.S. And this can be too major an adjustment for some.
For example, many shops close for a long break in the middle of the day. Small, family-run stores are the norm instead of big-box convenience. Cars are less necessary in cities like Barcelona, where public transport and walking rule.
Systems and processes for getting stuff done can be different, too. Securing housing, for instance, may involve contracts, deposits, and steps that don’t match what you expect.
This also extends to the food. Last week, I read an American’s review complaining about a traditional dish at a restaurant here in Barcelona and suggesting it be taken off the menu. The restaurant graciously replied that they might remove it from the English-language menu, since only locals seemed to enjoy it. A reminder that what seems weird to one person is utterly delicious to others.
If you prefer things to work exactly as they do back home, these differences can feel frustrating. But if you’re open to new rhythms and new experiences, you will discover an enjoyable new way of life.
💡Tip: Cultivate a growth mindset. Learn about local customs and embrace the unfamiliar. The more flexible you are, the more rewarding your experience will be. |
4. You’re Not Open to Learning a New Language
Even if you know a few Spanish phrases, navigating bureaucracy, healthcare, and daily life often requires more language skills than expected.
Many newcomers underestimate how much language affects day-to-day tasks, from buying groceries to speaking with local authorities. And bear in mind that Spain has several official languages: Castilian (Spanish), Aranese, Basque, Catalan, Galician, and Valencian.
In Barcelona, both Spanish and Catalan are widely spoken, with Catalan often being the preferred language. I was at my neighborhood public health clinic this week and noticed that nearly every sign was only in Catalan. If you plan to use public services, it’s helpful to be aware of this reality and prepare accordingly.
Being able to communicate in the local language (or at least trying to) makes life smoother, helps you integrate into your community, and reduces stress. It’s also key to forming friendships and feeling at home.
💡Tip: Start learning Spanish before your move. And if you’re moving to a bilingual region like Catalonia, learning a little of the regional language goes a long way. |
5. You’re Impatient
Thriving in Spain requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt. One of the biggest adjustments is learning to slow down and be patient. Spain will test your patience — not just with the bureaucracy, which can move at a glacial pace, but also in daily life.
When I first started seeking out services in Spain, I was often surprised by the slower response times compared to what I was used to in the U.S. Over time, I realized this wasn’t neglect or lack of professionalism — it’s simply a different rhythm.
You’ll notice the same thing at the pharmacy or local fruit and vegetable market. Whoever is at the counter gets the full attention of the salesperson for as long as they need. And when it’s your turn, you’ll get the same attention.
If you’re someone who taps your toe in frustration at the slightest delay, you may struggle at first. But if you can embrace this slower rhythm as a sign of care and connection, you’ll discover one of Spain’s quiet joys — a culture that values presence over speed.
💡Tip: Practice patience as a skill before you move. Build small habits like leaving extra time in your day, putting away your phone while waiting, or treating delays as opportunities to observe and connect with your surroundings. |
Turning Challenges Into Confidence
While these challenges are real, they don’t have to stop you. Recognizing them before you move gives you the chance to prepare, adapt, and ultimately thrive.
That’s exactly why I created the Spain Readiness Assessment. It’s a tool designed to give you clarity about where you’re already strong, where you might need more preparation, and how to move forward with confidence. The assessment also includes a 30-minute call with me, so you’re not just getting results — you’re getting guidance tailored to your situation.
Moving to Spain can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, but only if you approach it with clarity and preparation. If you’d like to explore whether you’re ready, you can learn more here: 👉 Spain Readiness Assessment.
P.S. Even if Spain isn’t in your immediate plans, you may know someone who’s dreaming of making the leap. Feel free to share this with them — it might give them the clarity they need.
(Images by Freepik)
