Living in Bilbao & Basque Country as an expat
Bilbao and the Basque Country (País Vasco) — world-class food, the Guggenheim, a green coastline and a fast-growing international scene.
Your expat guide to Bilbao & Basque Country
Bilbao and the Basque Country (País Vasco) — world-class food, the Guggenheim, a green coastline and a fast-growing international scene. Whether you're moving to Bilbao & Basque Country or already settling in, this YouExpats guide brings together English-speaking housing, legal and visa help, jobs, healthcare, schools and community — everything you need in one place, with verified, expat-friendly businesses across Bilbao & Basque Country.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Bilbao & Basque Country a good place for expats?
Bilbao & Basque Country is one of Spain’s most popular destinations for international residents, with a welcoming community, English-speaking services and a high quality of life. This guide brings together everything you need to settle in.
Do I need a NIE to live in Bilbao & Basque Country?
Yes — the NIE (foreigner identification number) is required for almost everything in Bilbao & Basque Country: renting, working, opening a bank account or signing contracts. You can find English-speaking specialists to help in the Bureaucracy & Legal section.
How do expats find housing in Bilbao & Basque Country?
Most newcomers start with rooms or co-living while they search, then move to a long-term rental. Browse expat-friendly housing options for Bilbao & Basque Country in the Housing section of this directory.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Bilbao & Basque Country?
You can get by in English in Bilbao & Basque Country thanks to its large international community and English-speaking services, but learning Spanish (or Catalan, where relevant) makes daily life much easier.