Living in Catalonia as an expat
Beyond Barcelona — the Costa Brava, Maresme, Costa Dorada, Girona and Tarragona. Mediterranean beaches, medieval towns and a strong international community across Catalonia.
Your expat guide to Catalonia
Beyond Barcelona — the Costa Brava, Maresme, Costa Dorada, Girona and Tarragona. Mediterranean beaches, medieval towns and a strong international community across Catalonia. Whether you're moving to Catalonia 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 Catalonia.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Catalonia a good place for expats?
Catalonia 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 Catalonia?
Yes — the NIE (foreigner identification number) is required for almost everything in Catalonia: 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 Catalonia?
Most newcomers start with rooms or co-living while they search, then move to a long-term rental. Browse expat-friendly housing options for Catalonia in the Housing section of this directory.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Catalonia?
You can get by in English in Catalonia thanks to its large international community and English-speaking services, but learning Spanish (or Catalan, where relevant) makes daily life much easier.