Tips For Relocating to Valencia Spain?

Question

I am looking to move to Spain and have no idea where to start. How do I need to budget while there? Where can I find job info? What type of jobs are available? Any other tips?

Answer 1

I now live in Valencia - and am originally from Sydney.  I just packed up and moved here and have been in Spain for a year now.  I had been to Valencia before, but it doesn't matter if you haven't and I think it's a great idea as it's an excellent city.  You will find it a challenge and frustrating at times, but that's what life is all about.

Start by saving money.  As much as possible.  Spain is not as cheap as it was a few years ago.  I think you should budget around 250-300 euros for a room in a decent shared flat per month incl bills (you will need to pay a month's rent as bond).  Around 200 euros for your monthly food shop (less if you are veg, more if you intend to eat out every night).  Then you need to allow money for trips to cafes and bars and other random expenses, so a budget of 700 euros a month is the minimum in my opinion.  

If you don't speak good spanish, then you will most likely work as an english teacher.  The majority of jobs are advertised on this website: http://valencia.loquo.com/en_us  it is predominantly in spanish though.  If you come in September/October you will have a better chance of find a job because school is back.

Most important tip is to make an effort to learn some basic spanish before you arrive if you don't speak any at the moment.  If you want an idea of decent areas to live, email me.

Answer 2

Let's start at the beginning.  Have you ever BEEN in Valencia?  Why do you want to relocate there?  Do you have a work Visa?  You will need to research things like retirement, insurance, residency permits.  There is so much to check, first.  If you are EU, some of those things are not important, but you don't just pick up and move to another country anymore.  It isn't as easy as it used to be.

Get all your ducks in a row, before you leap.  Otherwise, it's going to turn out into a long and frustrating and expensive vacation.