'I tried to move to Spain but three months in I was begging for help'

Daily Mirror

4 hours ago

Bea Meitiner, 39, grew up in Spain and speaks both fluent Spanish and Basque. She is now in the process of moving back to the country after spending time there as a child
A travel blogger has voiced her struggles with the process of relocating to Spain, after trying to navigate the bureaucratic system on her own.
Despite being fluent in Spanish and having previously lived there, Bea Meitiner, 39, has found the path to becoming a Spanish resident far from straightforward, leading her to seek help.
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Bea dreams of settling down in Navarra, an enchanting region boasting quaint villages, rugged mountains, and a leisurely lifestyle. Having spent her childhood in the area with her parents, she is proficient in both Spanish and Basque and is now endeavouring to return to the place filled with cherished memories.
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However, while the prospect of a slower pace of life appeals to the Brit, she has found that this laid-back approach also characterises Spain's government, which has hindered her efforts to establish herself in the region.
She revealed she has encountered obstacles in the process and admits to struggling alone in her quest to secure legal permission to reside in the country, reports the Express.
In response, Bea sought the expertise of Lucía Lagunas, a Spanish immigration solicitor from MySpainVisa, who has assisted thousands in their transition to the European nation. Their team manages all aspects required for settling in España, from paperwork to appointments to renewals.
Bea, reflecting on her journey of relocating to Spain, said: "Before reaching out to Lucia, I tried doing it on my own, by visiting the immigration office. I wasted three months and every single person I spoke to gave me different and contradicting information to the one before. Don't make the same mistake I did. Get help from the start!".
"I'll be honest: Spanish bureaucracy is no joke. That's why talking to a professional like Lucía makes a huge difference. If you're craving a lifestyle with slower mornings, sunny afternoons, and maybe a glass of wine at lunch... then yes. Spain could be your next chapter.
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"It's not always perfect-yes, the paperwork can be annoying and things move slower than in the U.S. or U.K.-but the reward is totally worth it."
She also shed light on the lessons she's learned while navigating Spanish bureaucracy and elaborated on why Spain is such an alluring destination for expatriates.
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Discussing the various locations Spain has to offer, Bea mentioned: "They're fantastic, but also more expensive and faster-paced. Ideal for younger people or those who still want a bit of that 'city hustle'."
Moreover, Bea suggested that these places may suit individuals who plan on working remotely or running their businesses.
In terms of Mallorca, she highlighted it as offering an excellent blend of urban and island lifestyles, ideal for those seeking equilibrium. The capital, Palma, is witnessing advancements in infrastructure and a burgeoning international community.
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However, she cautioned prospective movers about the recent anti-tourist sentiment, which has started to affect British residents.
Valencia is being hailed as a top choice for expats, with its bike-friendly streets, lush parks, and inviting beaches. The city's dynamic food scene is a hit with aficionados of Spanish cuisine.
"Many of our retired clients choose Valencia," Lucía revealed. "It's peaceful, beautiful, and has an amazing quality of life."
Discussing visa options and residency.
Lucia explained: "Many of our clients start with the non-lucrative visa or retirement route, and eventually apply for permanent residency."