Several thousand French people, as well as Belgians and Swiss, have already chosen to settle on the Costa Brava to spend their retirement. The quality of life, the cost of living, the cheaper real estate market in Spain than in France: there are many reasons why they choose to settle on the other side of the Pyrenees. And you, what are you waiting for to live a nice retirement under the Catalan sun?
The climate and environment of the Costa Brava
The amount of sunshine and the mild temperatures contribute to attracting retirees to Spain and in particular to the Costa Brava. This region is ideal for retirees wishing to take advantage of the beautiful years that are opening up to them. The more athletic can enjoy water sports. Walkers can enjoy superb walks, especially on the GR 92, which crosses Catalonia and runs along the coast.
For those who prefer cultural activities, the Costa Brava is also rich in historical heritage. Many museums are accessible. The work of Salvador Dali can be discovered there with happiness. The Costa Brava is also rich in popular culture and its many festivals of music, dance, theater and gastronomy.
Becoming a Spanish resident
As a European, you can spend 3 months in Spain without having to take any administrative steps. But if you intend to stay longer, you will have to apply for a residence permit, the Tarjeta de Residencia, which is valid for 5 years and must be renewed regularly.
Obtaining your NIE, foreign identification number, is essential when you are moving to Spain for a long period of time and intend to carry out certain procedures, such as buying an apartment or a house.
Lower taxes in Spain than in France
You only need to have spent 183 days in Spain to be considered a Spanish national. In addition to the straightforward administrative procedures involved in switching from French to Spanish pensioner status, a convention signed between the two countries allows French nationals living in Spain to pay their taxes only in Spain, where they are lower.
If you receive a pension paid by the French state, you will have to pay your taxes in France. However, you will be exempt from CSG and social security contributions. But if you receive a private pension, and have lived in Spain for more than 183 days, you will pay Spanish taxes.
Property prices on the Costa Brava
The fall in real estate prices caused by the 2008 crisis has encouraged many Europeans to invest in Spain, some to live there year round, others to buy a second home, to make a rental investment or to prepare their retirement in the sun.
Since the crisis, the Spanish property market has fallen by over 40%. In the last two years, prices have risen slightly, but are still far below those in France. Buying a house or apartment on the Costa Brava in towns such as Roses or Empuriabrava, for example, is still far more attractive than in France!
