Do you wish your family life had a little more everyday enjoyment? Fewer chilly winter mornings and muddy overalls. And instead, morning coffee in the Mediterranean sun, beach life after preschool pickup, and dinners under the open sky all year round? Life in Spain means sun and warmth, but also more time outdoors, more spontaneous ice cream breaks, and more room in everyday life for family, friends, and living. Everything tends to become a little easier and more enjoyable when the sun is shining, and the days feel longer.
A Win for Children, Family Life, and Quality of Life
Spain is a child-friendly country, where family is the heart of society and neighbors quickly become extended family. Growing up in Spain gives children a childhood full of outdoor play, community, invaluable cultural experiences, and, of course, an extra language as a bonus. Here, time together, everyday enjoyment, and a balance between work and leisure are prioritized.
Early risers can join the sunrise for a surf session in the early waves or take a run up the nearest mountain. While the children spend their day at school, you start your workday with a coffee on your blooming terrace. The sea view and warm morning air do wonders for work inspiration. With salty winds in your hair, you then cycle down to the marina for lunch with a good friend. After picking up the kids, you stroll together along the miles-long beach to your favorite spot under the palm trees, where you spend the afternoon swimming and building sandcastles.
For families with children, preschool and school are naturally among the biggest concerns when relocating. Many opt for the Swedish or Scandinavian school, available in several major locations across Spain. These schools follow the Swedish curriculum and cater to children from preschool to high school. All are private schools with varying tuition fees and a limited number of students. In addition to these, there are several international/English-language schools along the coast and in major cities. Anyone registered in Spain is also welcome to enroll in the Spanish school system, which maintains a high level of quality. Public schools and preschools are free of charge—except for textbooks, school transport, and school lunches, which come at a cost. The advantage of the local Spanish school is that children often adapt more quickly to the language and society.
When the sun sets, dinner is served on your terrace or at the local Spanish restaurant down the street, where they know exactly how you like it. The day may end with a yoga session on the beach in the still-warm evening air or a bike ride along winding mountain roads.
Beyond an investment in family life and quality of life, moving to Spain as a family can also be a smart financial choice. Compared to Sweden, the cost of living in Spain is significantly lower, leaving more money in your wallet for everyday luxuries, weekend trips, and all those dreams you’ve been waiting to fulfill.
Practical Aspects of Everyday Life
It may be reassuring to know that Spain’s healthcare system maintains a globally high standard and is tax-funded, just like in Sweden. The European Health Insurance Card covers only emergency care, but it is good to have initially. To access the same healthcare services as Spaniards, you need to be registered in Spain and apply for a so-called NIE number (Spanish personal identification number) for all family members over 18.
This number is also required for purchasing property or a car, opening a bank account, and paying taxes. You can apply for it through the Spanish Embassy in Sweden or the national police in Spain. Other practical matters to consider before moving include visas if you plan to stay longer than 90 consecutive days, insurance, and setting up a bank account with a local bank.
More Everyday Enjoyment Than Everyday Hassle
With its pleasant climate, slower pace, and social outdoor lifestyle, Spanish culture undeniably has a way of both simplifying and enriching life—weekday or weekend. On an ordinary Saturday at home, you might slip into your flip-flops, pack a picnic and beach toys, and stroll down to the shore with the kids. It’s a home you never tire of. But when the urge for adventure strikes, you visit a neighboring town or set off on a road trip through the Spanish countryside. You explore charming villages, stunning valleys, hidden beaches, waterfalls, and small mountain lakes. After an eventful weekend, it is always just as wonderful to finally return home to your own terrace, perhaps with a glass of wine and candlelight under the stars. You fall asleep warm and happy, knowing you dared to take the step towards a life beyond everyday stress and vitamin D deficiency.
Find Your Dream Home – From Idea to Reality
So how do you find a home in Spain? Whether you dream of a whitewashed villa with a private garden and pool along dramatic coastlines and towering mountains, a townhouse near endless beaches and nature reserves, or a spacious apartment in the heart of the city—we dare say we have the perfect home for you.
TM Real Estate Group has been building high-quality new homes and residential areas in prime locations along the Mediterranean coast for 50 years. We understand that moving to another country is a big decision. That’s why we are always available for you throughout the entire journey, from idea to reality—by phone, email, or in person at our office in Stockholm. Even though we sell homes, our greatest passion has always been fulfilling dreams. Your dream is our passion. Perhaps that is why we have a 94% customer satisfaction rate. Moving to Spain is more than just a property purchase—it is an investment in family life, quality of life, and your children’s future. Contact us today, and let us help make your dream come true.
Checklist Before Moving from Sweden to Spain:
Contact us today to start your journey toward your dream life in Spain.
Research schools in your desired area and apply. The Swedish school often has long waiting lists, so it is good to apply early. There are seven Swedish/Scandinavian schools in Spain, located in Orihuela (near Torrevieja), Fuengirola, Marbella, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Madrid, and Palma de Mallorca.
You can stay in Spain for 90 days without a visa; after that, you need one. Contact the Spanish consulate or embassy to check which visa type applies to you.
Apply for an NIE number (Spanish personal identification number) at the Spanish Embassy in Sweden or the national police in Spain.
Notify the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish Social Insurance Agency of your move and change your address.
The European Health Insurance Card only covers emergency care but can be useful initially.
Look into local insurance options if you plan to move permanently, or check with your Swedish insurance provider if you plan to commute periodically.
Set up a bank account and get a bank card at a local bank.
Contact the Swedish Tax Agency regarding applicable tax regulations. A general rule is that you must pay taxes on your income if you reside in Spain for more than 183 days per year.
Cancel memberships and subscriptions you no longer need.
