Expatica Spain

Understanding your international payment options When you’re planning to spend money abroad from the Netherlands, choosing the right payment method can make a big difference in fees, convenience and security. Debit cards, prepaid cards, credit cards and cash all have their place, but their cost and usefulness vary depending on how and where you travel.

Yes, it is possible to open a Dutch bank account as a non-resident, but options are limited and approval depends on your circumstances. Most Dutch banks require a Dutch address and a BSN, which means you generally need to be registered in the Netherlands before applying. If you are not a resident yet, international providers such as Wise or Revolut may be easier to open, as they do not require Dutch residency and can provide a EUR IBAN for everyday use.

The application process for a CAD account in the Netherlands will vary depending on whether you apply through a Dutch bank or a digital provider. Before starting your application, review the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare the necessary documents, including proof of identity and proof of address. Applicants who are not citizens of an EU or EEA country may need to provide a valid Dutch residence permit and a BSN (burgerservicenummer).

Are you tired of losing money to poor exchange rates and bank fees every time you send money abroad or get paid in a foreign currency? A multi‑currency account lets you hold, convert, spend, and transfer funds in multiple currencies from a single place, giving you more control and flexibility. In Spain, many people turn to providers like Wise for a more efficient way to manage their money.

Home Education Finance Healthcare Housing Lifestyle Living Moving Working Directory Banking Money Management Thinking about a mortgage, credit card, or personal loan in Spain? Knowing how your credit is tracked is the first step. With more than 10 years of experience, Ivo is a copywriter and marketing consultant that writes about finance and technology. He has lived in several countries and led a global marketing team before starting to write for Expatica. Editor's picks

There isn’t a single best Spanish account for expats, the ideal choice depends on what you prioritise. Factors to consider include monthly fees, branch access, cards included, and additional perks.

Owning property in Spain comes with mandatory legal obligations to ensure your home meets safety standards and is properly maintained. These requirements are not optional, and failing to comply can result in fines, legal liability, or insurance issues. Regular maintenance and compliance with building codes help protect residents, visitors, and the property itself, and are a key part of responsible ownership.

Bringing money into Spain legally depends mainly on how the funds are transferred, their origin, and whether you are a Spanish tax resident. In principle, there is no tax for simply moving your own savings into Spain, but there may be declaration or reporting obligations, and in some cases tax obligations, depending on what the money represents.

When purchasing a property, you must settle several one-off costs to legalize the transfer of ownership. Real Estate Transfer Tax (Grunderwerbsteuer) The standard rate is 3.5% of the purchase price for typical sales. If you acquire property within a family circle or through a donation, a sliding scale often applies, ranging from 0.5% to 3.5% based on the property value.

Housing is often the largest expense for anyone living in Spain, especially in major cities, popular islands, and coastal areas, where rents and property prices have risen sharply in recent years. One of the most effective ways to save money is to consider areas outside the city centre, where rental prices can be significantly lower while still offering good access to public transport.