Would you like to move to the Canary Islands?
Are you looking for a property that offers a perfect atmosphere, no disruptions, and beautiful scenery? The Canary Islands may be the ideal choice. With mild climate shifts and plenty of attractions to explore, it is no wonder why tourists often find themselves tempted to extend their stay here.
Individuals holding a valid residence permit may settle on the island at their discretion.
Those looking to extend their stay in the Canary Islands beyond three months must obtain a residency permit. This includes both traditional residents and remote workers considering relocating to the region.
The Canary Islands are often an attractive destination for both short and long-term visitors, due to the area’s mild climate, the fusion of Spanish and Portuguese languages spoken, and its relatively low cost of living. The Canary Islands have been a popular destination for immigrants from around the world since the late Middle Ages, allowing people from many different backgrounds to peacefully coexist.
The permits are divided into two:
EU citizens
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live as long as you want in the Canary Islands and enjoy the good weather all year round, you will only have to apply for the so-called EU certificate /green card and get a Spanish NIE if you want to buy a house in Spain. My Spain Visa lawyers will help you through the whole process in case you need to get the NIE number prior to applying for the EU certificate or to obtain the NIE number in advance if you need to open a Spanish bank account or buy/rent out a property.
Non-EU Citizens
If you are a non-EU citizen, you have several visas if you want to live more than 90 days in the Canary Islands.
- Golden visa Spain, If you want to buy a property or several properties of more than 500.000€ without a mortgage this is your visa
- Spanish Non lucrative visa, If you are going to take a sabbatical year or do not need to work at all, this is the visa for you.
- Retirement visa Spain, If you are retired and want to enjoy the good Spanish weather, this is the visa for you.
- Student visa Spain, If you want to study in a Spanish university or business school in Spain or enrol yourself in a course that it is recognised by the Spanish government, this is the visa for you.
My Spain Visa lawyers will help you through the whole process if you are a non-European citizen and you need a visa to be able to stay more than 90 days in the Canary Islands.
Are the Canary Islands a good place to live?
Residents of Europe have long aspired to a higher standard of living, and the Canary Islands provide an exceptional opportunity to achieve this goal. Isolated from mainland Europe and other main islands, the islands offer all of the advantages of land ownership combined with a desirable quality of life.
The climate of the area is characterized by long, hot summers and short, temperate winters. Additionally, the numerous islands offer a variety of options to suit any traveler’s preference. No matter which isle you choose for your stay, you and your family are sure to enjoy the vast range of activities available.
The Canary Islands provide a unique opportunity for those looking for optimal weather conditions all year long, boasting a warm climate that is beneficial to individual health.
Which is the best Canary Island to live on
Individuals may question the difficulty of relocating to the Canary Islands, however, those with a valid purpose are warmly welcomed. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is reputed as having the highest standards of living among the Canaries, making it ideal for families and individuals seeking a thriving community.
Every Spanish city offers its own unique personality; those uncertain can easily take a holiday to visit multiple cities and ascertain which one meets their expectations. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are comfortable islands that should be considered for vacationing or settling.
Is it expensive to live in the Canary Islands?
Life in the Archipelago is typically more affordable than in the UK and Northern Europe. The quality of food is superior and significantly less expensive. Visitors can take advantage of plentiful produce available at local marketplaces, including a variety of fruits and vegetables, staples enjoyed by people around the world.
In the Canary Islands, it is important to be aware of the costs associated with utilities. Utilizing the internet may be more expensive than other bills combined. When selecting a network, those in more populated areas such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas often have higher-speed internet connections. Staying connected with loved ones is essential and the best way to do this is by taking the necessary steps to ensure adequate access.
Despite its benefits, there are pros and cons to living on the islands. As with any location, there are positive and negative aspects to consider.
Advantages of residing on a Canary Island
In Spain, healthcare standards are of high quality, with public facilities available to Spanish citizens and private hospitals providing superior care also available. Private health insurance is accepted at these facilities.
Vacationers to this island benefit from the multiple beaches located nearby, allowing for convenient and flexible scheduling of their excursions.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria, two islands in the Canary archipelago, boast a unique environment due to their close proximity to Africa. They enjoy a warm and consistent temperature year-round, as well as numerous national parks perfect for weekend getaways.
For those travelling to the island with sustained wind conditions, a cost-effective culinary experience awaits. Many of its restaurants offer affordable prices, making it possible to enjoy a full week’s worth of meals without breaking the bank.
Travelling between the Canary Islands of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote is simple and cost-effective thanks to the availability of public transportation.
Cons of living in the Canary Islands
Adapting to an island lifestyle necessitates acclimation, as with any new destination. Excursions bound for the mainland that were originally scheduled for the weekend cannot proceed as planned.
The local culture in the area is vibrant, with a population largely composed of tourists. The area boasts a wide array of pubs and nightclubs, drawing people from a variety of backgrounds and characteristics.
Making the transition to a new area can be a challenging experience for many. Adjusting to the people and atmosphere of the new location often requires significant time and effort, ultimately impacting one’s progress toward settling in.
Residents of a condo in the Canary Islands are accustomed to the abundance of vegetation, and the close proximity of their neighbours.
Buying of property in the Canary Islands
When purchasing real estate in the Canary Islands, it is important to ensure that the process is handled properly and in accordance with the law. Your best bet is to contact a local law firm, who can provide guidance and assist you with carrying out necessary Due Diligence to avoid any potential legal complications. The dedicated team at My Spain Visa Lawyers are well-equipped to guide you through all stages of the property-buying process.
