Moving to or visiting Spain as an Indian whether as a student, tourist, or professional can be an exciting opportunity, but it also comes with a set of legal responsibilities and cultural expectations. Understanding the local laws, immigration processes, and social norms can ensure a smooth and lawful experience. Spain is welcoming and diverse, and with the right knowledge and preparation, your time here can be both rewarding and memorable.
DOS Legal and Administrative Compliance
Visa Validity: Always hold a valid Schengen visa, student visa, or residence/work permit.
NIE Number: Apply for the Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) as soon as possible; it's required for almost all official tasks.
TIE Card: Get the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days of arriving if you stay over 90 days.
Empadronamiento: Register your address with the local town hall—needed for healthcare, schooling, and residency renewals.
Always carry ID: Spanish law mandates carrying identification (passport or TIE) at all times.
Work and Finance
Work legally: Only engage in jobs you're authorized for (under a valid work or student visa).
Pay taxes: If you stay more than 183 days a year, you must declare global income in Spain.
Open a bank account: Requires a valid NIE, proof of residence, and often a work contract or enrollment letter.
Driving
Convert Indian license: After 6 months, you’ll need a Spanish license if you're a resident. India and Spain don't have a direct exchange agreement, so you may need to pass local driving tests.
Follow traffic rules: Wear seatbelts, don't use mobile while driving, and obey alcohol limits (0.5 g/l).
Language and Culture
Learn Spanish: Especially for public services, renting, or jobs—it helps a lot.
Greet appropriately: Cheek kisses are casual, handshakes are formal.
Respect local customs: Especially around siesta hours, recycling, and noise restrictions in residential areas.
DON'Ts
Legal and Ethical
Don’t overstay your visa: Leads to deportation or entry bans.
Don’t work illegally: No “under the table” jobs—fines and bans are enforced.
No bribery: Corruption is a serious offense in Spain.
Social and Cultural
Don’t assume English is spoken everywhere: Especially outside big cities.
Don’t dress too modestly at beaches/pools: Use swimwear.
Don’t photograph people without consent: Especially children and police officers.
Other Offenses
No public urination/littering: Strictly fined.
No loud or aggressive behavior: Public behavior is expected to be calm and courteous.
No unauthorized religious or political gatherings: Always check local rules before organizing any group activity.
For Students
DOS
Enroll and attend classes regularly (mandatory for visa compliance).
Apply for visa renewal at least 60 days before expiry.
You can work up to 20 hours/week with proper permission.
Take advantage of student discounts (public transport, events, museums).
DON'Ts
Don’t skip classes or fail to report academic progress—your visa may be revoked.
Don’t accept jobs without proper student work authorization.
Working Professionals
DOS
Get a work visa or switch from student visa with approval.
Understand your contract rights, including holidays, breaks, and pay.
Contribute to Seguridad Social (Social Security) for access to healthcare and pensions.
Hire a gestor (accountant) to help file your annual tax returns.
DON'Ts
Don’t work freelance without registering as Autónomo (self-employed) and paying taxes.
Don’t assume your employer handles all paperwork—stay proactive about documentation.
Long-Term Residents & Settlers
Integration Tips
Join local Indian associations for cultural and legal support.
Explore free integration programs: Language and civics courses may even help in citizenship applications.
Know that regional laws may differ: Catalonia, Basque Country, and others have additional regulations.
Avoid
Taking legal advice only from word of mouth—always verify with the Immigration Office or lawyers.
Letting paperwork lapse—keep digital and hard copies of all vital documents.
Where to Get Help
Official and Legal Resources
Embassy of India, Madrid: https://eoimadrid.gov.in
Consulate of India, Barcelona: https://www.cgibcn.gov.in
Oficina de Extranjería: Local immigration office for visa extensions, NIE/TIE.
Ayuntamiento: Town Hall services for registration, housing, social programs.
Free Legal Clinics: Run by law schools and NGOs—great for first-time legal help.
