'If you're moving to Spain don't make the same mistake I did'
EXCLUSIVE: Travel blogger Bea Meitiner, 39, has spent the past few months trying to get Spanish residence and has been left frustrated by the process
A travel blogger has shared her struggles with the red tape involved in moving to Spain, despite speaking the language and having previously lived there.
Bea Meitiner, 39, found the process of becoming a Spanish resident far from straightforward and has now sought professional help.
She dreams of settling down in Navarra, an area known for its quaint villages, rugged landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle. Bea spent her childhood in this region with her parents, where she became fluent in both Spanish and Basque, and is now eager to return to the place filled with cherished memories.
However, the slower pace of life that attracts many to Spain also seems to apply to its bureaucracy, which has hindered Bea's attempts to establish herself in the region.
She admitted to facing numerous obstacles in the process and confessed to struggling with the task of securing legal permission to stay in the country on her own, reports the Express.
In response, Bea turned to Lucía Lagunas, a Spanish immigration solicitor from MySpainVisa, who has helped thousands of individuals in their transition to the European nation. The team at MySpainVisa takes care of everything one needs to settle in Spain, from paperwork to appointments to renewals.
Bea, reflecting on her efforts to live in Spain again and the hurdles faced with local bureaucracy, admitted: "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.
"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 noted: "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'."
Additionally, Bea suggested that locations such as Mallorca, which offers a blend of city and island life, may suit those looking for balance, while warning of anti-tourist sentiment which includes British nationals.
Valencia is a cherished destination among expats, providing a compelling option with its cycle-friendly avenues, lush parks, and inviting beaches. The city's dynamic culinary scene is a hit for aficionados of Spanish fare.
"Many of our retired clients choose Valencia," Lucía remarked. "It's peaceful, beautiful, and has an amazing quality of life."
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