Very true, I think it's important that people realize how much this can vary country by country too. I never understood the complaints when I live in the Netherlands, most things there work quite efficiently. But now, that I'm in France, I definitely get it!
That’s a very valid point. Spain is notorious for bureaucracy, while I’m sure it’s much easier in other places. There is always something bureaucratic to accomplish in Spain!
Yes, the paperwork can be overwhelming. We had our ups and downs in the first few years. But now, it is cut and dry with renewing your residency. All I have to do is show my lease, a padron, and ID. I just recently renewed, and I don't have to bother for another 10 years.
It's a relief to know it does get easier! At times, it feels like that's all I'm focused on—working on the next visa issue or a driver's license or ... 🤣
Absolutely spot on! When I moved to Australia decades ago it was for the reasons my gut told me, the same for France and now Spain. With following that gut come dealing with the rules of that land. I left when what I initially lived did not have a pull anymore because then the rules become more noticeable. My take on it! Good article🫶
Thank you, and thank you for reading! I don’t know if Spain is our “forever” country, but we are certainly enjoying our lives here right now. It sounds like you’ve had some amazing adventures!
Jen, this showed up in my feed at the right (or wrong? haha) time, I've just had yet another exasperating, soul-destroying, on the verge-of-tearing up bureaucratic experiences in Vienna. I fear the worst every time I go in for a visit somewhere and most of the time my fears are justified. There's gaslighting, being lied to, being ignored...and this is nothing to do with visas and passports, I'm an EU (and US) citizen, it's just such silly things, pointless in the grand scheme of it all, and yet...they're all a necessary evil.
But, like you, I try to focus on those moments where we're walking on a cobbled street, enjoying a drink on some terrace, marvelling at the architecture.
(I just posted a long rant on notes if you want to get a glimpse of the inner workings of my deranged mind 😂)
It can be so frustrating at times. I’ve had to throw my hands up in the air and walk away before I can come back to whatever I’m working on with a cool head. The Spanish system is difficult, as well, but it doesn’t sound quite as difficult as Austria! There’s always some form to forget or signature missed or … 😩
I’m going to check out that note. I bet I can relate. 🤪 And thanks for reading!
Very true, I think it's important that people realize how much this can vary country by country too. I never understood the complaints when I live in the Netherlands, most things there work quite efficiently. But now, that I'm in France, I definitely get it!
That’s a very valid point. Spain is notorious for bureaucracy, while I’m sure it’s much easier in other places. There is always something bureaucratic to accomplish in Spain!
Are you from the Netherlands?
No, I just lived there for a few years
Yes, the paperwork can be overwhelming. We had our ups and downs in the first few years. But now, it is cut and dry with renewing your residency. All I have to do is show my lease, a padron, and ID. I just recently renewed, and I don't have to bother for another 10 years.
It's a relief to know it does get easier! At times, it feels like that's all I'm focused on—working on the next visa issue or a driver's license or ... 🤣
Once you get that 1st 5 years in and obtain permanent status, it will be a breeze.
🙏
Absolutely spot on! When I moved to Australia decades ago it was for the reasons my gut told me, the same for France and now Spain. With following that gut come dealing with the rules of that land. I left when what I initially lived did not have a pull anymore because then the rules become more noticeable. My take on it! Good article🫶
Thank you, and thank you for reading! I don’t know if Spain is our “forever” country, but we are certainly enjoying our lives here right now. It sounds like you’ve had some amazing adventures!
Jen, this showed up in my feed at the right (or wrong? haha) time, I've just had yet another exasperating, soul-destroying, on the verge-of-tearing up bureaucratic experiences in Vienna. I fear the worst every time I go in for a visit somewhere and most of the time my fears are justified. There's gaslighting, being lied to, being ignored...and this is nothing to do with visas and passports, I'm an EU (and US) citizen, it's just such silly things, pointless in the grand scheme of it all, and yet...they're all a necessary evil.
But, like you, I try to focus on those moments where we're walking on a cobbled street, enjoying a drink on some terrace, marvelling at the architecture.
(I just posted a long rant on notes if you want to get a glimpse of the inner workings of my deranged mind 😂)
It can be so frustrating at times. I’ve had to throw my hands up in the air and walk away before I can come back to whatever I’m working on with a cool head. The Spanish system is difficult, as well, but it doesn’t sound quite as difficult as Austria! There’s always some form to forget or signature missed or … 😩
I’m going to check out that note. I bet I can relate. 🤪 And thanks for reading!