# Spaincheck.com > Practical Spain Guides for Americans Moving, Living and Working in Spain ## Posts - [Property Tax Costs in Spain: What Owners and Buyers Need to Know in 2026](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/real-estate/property-tax-costs-in-spain/): Thinking about buying property in Spain? One of the most common questions international buyers ask is: Does Spain have property tax? The answer is yes — and understanding the different property taxes in Spain is extremely important before purchasing a villa, apartment or investment property. Whether you are buying a holiday home on the Costa […] - [Life Expectancy in Spain: Why Spaniards Live So Long](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/insights-statistics-and-facts/life-expectancy-in-spain/): Spain is consistently ranked among the countries with the highest life expectancy in the world. From healthy Mediterranean food and an active outdoor lifestyle to universal healthcare and strong family culture, several factors contribute to Spaniards living longer than most Europeans and Americans. According to recent international data, the average life expectancy in Spain is […] - [What Is a Porrón?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/made-in-spain/what-is-a-porron/): A porrón is a traditional Spanish wine vessel, usually made of glass, with a rounded body and a long, thin spout. It originated in Catalonia and was designed for one simple purpose: 👉 Sharing drinks without touching the bottle It’s one of those things that perfectly represents Spanish culture —social, a bit messy, and surprisingly […] - [Is Weed Legal in Spain?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/legal/is-it-legal-to-smoke-weed-in-spain/): Cannabis in Spain is decriminalized for personal use in private spaces, but illegal in public. That’s the short answer. However, the reality is a bit more nuanced — especially when it comes to home growing, fines, and cannabis social clubs. As someone who has been part of cannabis social clubs in Valencia, Barcelona and Benalmádena, […] - [Spain Immigration Law 2025: Key Changes for Expats (Update 2026)](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/legal/spains-immigration-law-2025/): Spain has made one of the biggest immigration shifts in Europe in recent years. Since May 2025, new reforms have made it easier, faster and more flexible for foreigners to live and work legally in Spain.But what really caught attention in 2026 is something bigger: 👉 Spain is moving toward the regularisation of over 1 […] - [Spanish Bureaucracy Guide for Expats](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/spanish-bureaucracy-part-ii-the-2025-expat-guide-to-spains-most-important-administrative-offices/): Time to read: 4 min If you made it through Part I — first of all, respect. You’ve already tackled taxes, Social Security, and pensions in Spain. That’s not beginner level anymore. But… welcome to Part II — where Spain really tests your patience (and your coffee tolerance ☕). If you’re planning to live, work, […] - [Surviving Spanish Bureaucracy (Part I): Taxes, Social Security & Getting Set Up in 2026](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/spain-expat-tax-social-security-guide-2026/): Time to read: 4 min Before you deal with residency cards, driving licences, or paperwork (that’s Part II 👀), there’s something even more important: 👉 Getting your financial and legal foundation right in Spain This is where many expats make mistakes — not because it’s hard, but because it’s different. In this guide, we’ll walk […] - [Okupa in Spain: Key Trends and Property Risks (2026 Updates)](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/real-estate/okupa-key-trends/): The term “okupa” in Spain refers to the illegal occupation of a property without the owner’s permission. Over the past decade, ocupaciones ilegales became one of the most discussed topics among foreign buyers, investors, and second-home owners in Spain. However, many online discussions exaggerate the real risks. The reality in 2026 is more balanced: For […] - [Is Gay Marriage Legal in Spain?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/legal/is-gay-marriage-legal-in-spain/): Yes — gay marriage is fully legal in Spain. Spain officially legalized same-sex marriage on 3 July 2005, becoming the third country in the world to do so after the Netherlands and Belgium. Under Spanish law, same-sex couples have the same legal rights and responsibilities as heterosexual married couples, including: Spain is widely considered one […] - [Best Places to Retire in Spain for Americans](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/best-places-to-retire-in-spain/): Sunshine, relaxed lifestyle, great food, and one of the best healthcare systems in Europe — it’s no surprise Spain remains one of the top retirement destinations in the world. But choosing where to retire is what really makes the difference. Some areas offer strong expat communities and convenience, while others give you a more authentic […] - [Are Electric Scooters Legal in Spain?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/legal/are-electric-scooters-legal-in-spain/): Yes — electric scooters are legal in Spain, but the rules became stricter in 2025 and 2026. Electric scooters are classified as Vehículos de Movilidad Personal (VMP) by the Spanish traffic authority, the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico). New rules now affect: If you live in Spain or plan to visit, it is important to […] - [Seville Weather by Month: Best Time to Visit](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/weather-seville/): Time to read: 6 min Planning a trip to Seville? Understanding the weather month by month can completely change your experience — especially in one of the hottest cities in Europe. From orange-blossom spring mornings to intense summer heat above 40°C, Seville has a unique climate that surprises many first-time visitors. This guide covers everything […] - [La Cala de Mijas Guide: Beaches, Lifestyle & Property](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/la-cala-de-mijas/): La Cala de Mijas has transformed from a quiet fishing village into one of the most desirable places to live and holiday on the Costa del Sol. Located between Fuengirola and Marbella, La Cala de Mijas offers a rare combination of authentic Spanish atmosphere, modern amenities, sandy beaches, golf clubs, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. […] - [Granada Travel Guide: Alhambra, Hotels & Things to Do](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/granada-travel-guide/): Located in southern Spain, Granada is one of the most unique destinations in the country — known for its Moorish history, mountain views, and the world-famous Alhambra. Population: 230,000+ (according to INe)Known for: Alhambra, Albaicín, tapas cultureClimate: Hot summers, cool winters 👉 Granada combines history + culture + nature — making it one of the […] - [Beyond the Sunset: Marbella Nightlife Guide](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/nightlife-in-marbella/): Marbella is renowned for its glamorous nightlife, beach clubs, live music, yacht parties and late dinners that somehow turn into plans to carry on partying until 3 a.m. Having lived on the Costa del Sol for years, I can say this with confidence: Marbella’s nightlife is not a single scene. It depends on where you […] - [Getafe Travel Guide: Things to Do, Hotels & Local Tips](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/getafe-travel-guide/): Located just south of Madrid, Getafe is one of the best-kept secrets for travelers who want a local Spanish experience without tourist crowds. Population: 193 238+Known for: Getafe CF, local lifestyle, Madrid proximityDistance to Madrid: ~14 km 👉 Getafe combines authentic city life + football culture + easy access to Madrid 📍 Where is Getafe? […] - [Adeje Travel Guide: Beaches, Weather & Things to Do](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/adeje-travel-guide/): Located on the southwest coast of Tenerife, Adeje is one of the Canary Islands’ most popular destinations. 👉 Adeje combines beach lifestyle + nature + tourism infrastructure — making it one of the most complete destinations in Spain. 📍 Where is Adeje? Adeje is located in the south of Tenerife, next to: 👉 It’s just […] - [Torremolinos Guide: Beaches, Weather & Things to Do](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/torremolinos/): Time to read: 10 min Torremolinos holds a special place in our hearts, as it was the first town where we spent three months after arriving on the Costa del Sol. Before settling down with our family in Benalmádena, we stayed in an Airbnb in Torremolinos, where we also started our first digital jobs. Whether […] - [Marbella Tourist Guide: Weather, Hotels, Beaches & Things to Do](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/marbella-tourist-guide/): Marbella Tourist Guide: Weather, Hotels, Beaches & Things to Do Marbella is one of the most famous destinations on Spain’s Costa del Sol—known for its beaches, nightlife, luxury lifestyle, and charming Old Town. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or considering staying longer, this guide covers everything: best areas, hotels, weather, beaches, transport, and real […] - [Madrid Weather by Month: Best Time to Visit](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/weather-madrid/): Madrid is known for its sunny skies, hot summers, and surprisingly cold winters. As Spain’s capital and one of Europe’s highest major cities, Madrid experiences a continental Mediterranean climate with strong seasonal differences throughout the year. Whether you are planning a city break, relocating to Spain, or spending several months in the capital, understanding Madrid […] - [Benalmádena Weather: Best Time to Visit](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/weather-benalmadena/): Located on the Costa del Sol, Benalmádena enjoys over 300–320 days of sunshine per year, making it one of the most reliable year-round destinations in Europe. This guide helps you understand real weather conditions, not just averages — so you can choose the right time based on your lifestyle, budget and travel goals. Monthly Weather […] - [Discover Benalmádena: Your Ultimate Tourist Guide](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/guides/benalmadena/): Benalmádena is one of the most balanced locations on the Costa del Sol, combining a beach lifestyle with family-friendly infrastructure and high property demand. Located just 15 minutes from Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Benalmádena offers easy access, year-round sunshine, and a blend of tourism and residential life. Having lived and worked in this area for […] - [Average Salary in Spain: Jobs, Cities & Cost of Living](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/work-in-spain/salary-in-spain/): Salaries in Spain can vary significantly depending on the city, industry and level of experience. In 2026, the average gross annual salary in Spain was around €30,000–€32,000, with significant differences between regions such as Madrid, Barcelona, and the Costa del Sol. After taxes and social security contributions, this equates to a net monthly salary of […] - [How Big Is Spain Compared to the United States?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/insights-statistics-and-facts/how-big-is-spain-compared-to-the-united-states/): Spain is about 20 times smaller than the United States. 👉 Spain is slightly smaller than Texas and larger than California. SIZE COMPARISON TABLE Area Size (sq mi) Compared to Spain Spain 194,897 — USA 3,809,525 20× larger Texas 268,596 1.4× larger California 163,695 Smaller than Spain Spain vs USA Size Comparison (Map) How Spain […] - [What Is the Legal Drinking Age in Spain?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/legal/what-is-the-legal-drinking-age-in-spain/): The legal drinking age in Spain is 18 years old.Anyone under 18 is not allowed to buy or consume alcohol in public places, including bars, restaurants and shops. However, enforcement can vary depending on the region and situation, especially in tourist areas. 👉 For visitors from the United States, this is lower than the US […] - [What Are Espadrilles?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/made-in-spain/what-are-espadrilles/) - [What Jobs Are in Demand in Spain?](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/insights-statistics-and-facts/what-jobs-are-in-demand-in-spain/) - [DANA Storm Updates in Spain](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/news/dana-storm-updates/) - [7 Most Famous Spanish Modern Artists](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/culture/7-most-famous-spanish-modern-artists/) - [Spanish Holidays 2026: Public & Regional Calendar](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/insights-statistics-and-facts/insights-statistics-and-facts-spanish-holidays-2026/) ## Pages - [Privacy Policy](https://spaincheck.com/privacy-policy/): Effective date: May 2026 Who We Are Our website address is: This website provides informational content related to Spain including relocation, visas, taxes, legal topics, travel guides, real estate, culture, and lifestyle information. The website operates primarily as an informational platform and does not require visitors to create accounts or actively provide personal information. Information […] - [Spain VAT Refund Calculator (Tourists & Expats)](https://spaincheck.com/pages/spain-vat-refund-calculator/): Spain VAT Refund Calculator Estimate how much VAT you may recover from tax-free shopping in Spain as a tourist or non-EU resident. Buyer status Non-EU tourist / visitorEU residentSpanish residentExpat leaving the EU with goods Total purchase amount incl. VAT (€) VAT rate 21% — Standard goods10% — Reduced VAT goods/services4% — Super-reduced VAT goods […] - [Spain Wealth Tax Calculator for Residents & Non-Residents](https://spaincheck.com/pages/spain-wealth-tax-calculator-for-residents-non-residents/): If you’re planning to live, invest, or own property in Spain, understanding Wealth Tax is one of the most important steps. Spain Wealth Tax Calculator Check if you may need to pay wealth tax in Spain based on residency, assets, debts and property ownership. Tax residency status Spanish tax residentNon-resident Autonomous community General Spanish rulesAndalusiaAragonAsturiasBalearic […] - [Spain Mortgage Calculator for Property Buyers](https://spaincheck.com/pages/spain-mortgage-calculator/): Spain Mortgage Calculator Estimate your monthly mortgage payment, required deposit and buyer costs for a property purchase in Spain. Property price (€) Buyer type Spanish tax residentNon-resident buyer Property type Resale propertyNew build property Purchase region General Spain estimateAndalusiaAragonAsturiasBalearic IslandsCanary IslandsCantabriaCastile and LeónCastile-La ManchaCataloniaValencian CommunityExtremaduraGaliciaMadridMurciaNavarreBasque CountryLa RiojaCeuta and Melilla Mortgage financing 50% LTV60% LTV — […] - [Spain Tax Calculator (Income, Property & More)](https://spaincheck.com/pages/spain-tax-calculator/): Spain Tax Calculator Estimate your Spanish tax exposure from income, property ownership, rental income and wealth. Tax residency status Spanish tax residentEU / EEA non-residentNon-EU non-resident Autonomous community General Spain estimateAndalusiaAragonAsturiasBalearic IslandsCanary IslandsCantabriaCastile and LeónCastile-La ManchaCataloniaValencian CommunityExtremaduraGaliciaMadridMurciaNavarreBasque CountryLa RiojaCeuta and Melilla Gross annual employment income (€) Spanish property value (€) Property purchase type Resale propertyNew […] - [Spain Tools & Calculators for Living and Working in Spain](https://spaincheck.com/pages/): Understanding the real numbers in Spain is key before making any move. Salary, taxes, property costs and daily expenses can vary depending on your region, residency and lifestyle. These calculators help you get a clear estimate of what you actually earn, spend and keep. Spain Calculators Practical tools to help you calculate salary, taxes, mortgages, […] - [Spain Salary Calculator: Gross to Net Pay](https://spaincheck.com/pages/salary-calculator-for-spain/): Spain Salary Calculator Estimate your gross-to-net salary, income tax and employee Social Security contributions in Spain. Gross annual salary (€) Autonomous community Contract type Permanent contractTemporary contract Calculate Net Salary Estimated monthly net salary €0 Gross annual salary €0 Estimated IRPF income tax €0 Employee Social Security Common contingencies / health & social protection €0 […] - [SpainCheck: Practical Spain Guides for Tourists & Foreigners](https://spaincheck.com/): Simple Tools & Guides for Life & Travel in Spain Planning to move, work, or buy property in Spain?SpainCheck gives you clear answers without the confusion. What You Can Do Here About Spain: Key Facts You Should Know Spain is one of the largest countries in Europe, with a population of around 48 million people […] - [Blogs](https://spaincheck.com/blogs/) ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/spaincheck.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)