posted 5th March 2026
Spain is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for people relocating abroad - especially for expats looking for sunshine, lifestyle, and strong transport links. But choosing where to live is only half the story. The other half is making sure you use trusted professionals (legal, tax, property, and relocation) so your move is safe, compliant, and stress‑free.
Below are 10 of the most popular places to move to Spain, followed by practical guidance on due diligence, and how EXAPS (Expats Alliance of Professional Standard) can help you find professionals who commit to clear standards.
1) Costa del Sol (Málaga, Marbella, Estepona)
The Costa del Sol is a long‑standing favourite for British and international expats. You’ll find international schools, strong healthcare options, and a large expat community.
2) Barcelona
Barcelona offers a global city feel with beaches, culture, and strong job opportunities. It’s popular with professionals, entrepreneurs, and families who want city life.
3) Madrid
Spain’s capital is ideal if you want career opportunities, excellent transport, and a more “local Spanish” experience than some coastal areas.
4) Valencia
Valencia is often described as ‘the best of both worlds’. A city coastal lifestyle with city infrastructure, plus generally better value than Barcelona or Madrid.
5) Alicante & Costa Blanca
Alicante and the Costa Blanca are popular for retirees and families seeking affordability, beaches, and established expat networks.
6) Mallorca (Balearic Islands)
Mallorca attracts remote workers, families, and lifestyle movers. It’s beautiful, well connected, and has a strong international community.
7) Tenerife (Canary Islands)
Tenerife is a year‑round sunshine option with a slower pace of life. It’s popular with retirees and remote workers.
8) Seville (Sevilla)
Seville offers classic Andalusian culture, architecture, and a vibrant food scene. It’s a great choice if you want authentic city living.
9) Granada
Granada is known for its history, university energy, and proximity to both mountains and the coast. It can be excellent value compared to bigger cities.
10) Bilbao & Northern Spain (Basque Country)
Northern Spain appeals to people who prefer a cooler climate, strong local identity, and excellent food culture. Bilbao is increasingly popular with professionals.
Why using trusted professionals matters when moving abroad
Relocating to Spain often involves multiple high‑stakes decisions: property, visas/residency (where applicable), tax residency, banking, insurance, and family logistics.
The biggest risk sometimes, is assuming that a friendly recommendation is enough.
Don’t rely on “someone you just met”!
Expats are often targeted by:
• Unqualified “advisers” who overpromise
• Middlemen who take referral fees without accountability
• People claiming expertise in Spanish legal or tax matters without proper standing
A move abroad is not the time to gamble. A single mistake can lead to delays, unexpected costs, or long‑term compliance issues.
Do your due diligence (a practical checklist)
Before you hire a lawyer, accountant, property professional, or relocation service:
1. Verify identity and business details (company registration, address, contact information)
2. Check professional standing (regulators, memberships, licensing where relevant)
3. Look for independent reviews (not just testimonials on their own website)
4. Ask for a written scope of work (what’s included, what’s excluded)
5. Confirm fees in writing (including taxes, disbursements, and cancellation terms)
6. Avoid pressure tactics (e.g., “sign today” or “cash only”)
7. Keep records (emails, contracts, invoices, and key decisions)
How EXAPS can help you find trusted professionals
EXAPS (Expats Alliance of Professional Standard) exists to help expats find reliable, expat‑facing professional service providers - and to help ethical professionals stand out.
EXAPS is not a regulator, ombudsman, accreditation body, or a provider of legal, financial, immigration, or tax advice. However, EXAPS members commit to higher standards of conduct.
EXAPS members agree to a Code of Conduct
When you choose an EXAPS member, you’re choosing a professional who has agreed to:
• Follow clear standards of integrity and transparency
• Treat clients fairly
• Communicate clearly about scope, fees, and expectations
• Engage appropriately if concerns are raised
This helps reduce the risk of being misled - and encourages a more professional, accountable experience for expats.
Next steps if you’re planning a move to Spain
If you’re deciding where to live in Spain, start with lifestyle and practical needs (work, schools, healthcare, transport). Then protect your move by building a trusted support team early - especially for legal, tax, and property decisions.
If you want to work with professionals who commit to clear standards, explore the EXAPS directory and look for providers who agree to the EXAPS Code of Conduct.
