Moving checklist in Alicante

1. 1

   Apply for your NIE Number

   essential

   The Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) is crucial for almost everything in Spain. Apply at a Spanish consulate in your home country well in advance.

2. 2

   Research Shared Housing Platforms

   essential

   Familiarize yourself with popular Spanish rental sites like Idealista, Fotocasa, and Badi. Filter by 'habitación' (room) and 'Alicante' to get a sense of the market.

3. 3

   Understand Rental Contract Types

   recommended

   Be aware of 'Contrato de arrendamiento de habitación' for room rentals or 'Contrato de arrendamiento de temporada' for short-term stays, common for students or digital nomads.

4. 4

   Set Your Housing Budget

   essential

   Shared room rents in Alicante typically range from €350-550. Factor in utilities and initial deposits (often 1-2 months' rent).

5. 5

   Prepare Key Documents

   essential

   Gather copies of your passport, visa (if applicable), NIE, proof of funds, and any academic or employment letters. Landlords will likely request these.

6. 6

   Learn Basic Spanish Phrases

   recommended

   Essential for communicating with potential landlords or roommates, especially phrases related to viewing properties, asking about contracts, and amenities.

7. 7

   Arrange Temporary Accommodation

   essential

   Book a hostel or Airbnb for your first week in Alicante. This gives you a base to conduct in-person flat viewings and avoid rushed decisions.

8. 8

   Secure Travel Health Insurance

   essential

   Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance coverage for your initial period, especially if you won't be immediately covered by the Spanish public system.

9. 9

   Check Visa and Residency Requirements

   essential

   Confirm your specific visa or residency pathway for Spain. This is critical for legal long-term stay and impacts your ability to secure housing and services.

10. 10

    Join Alicante Expat/Student Groups Online

    nice-to-have

    Facebook groups like 'Expats in Alicante' or university student forums are great for advice, shared housing leads, and connecting with others.

1. 1

   Complete Your Empadronamiento

   essential

   Register your address at the Alicante town hall (Ayuntamiento). This is vital for accessing many services and confirming your residency.

2. 2

   Open a Spanish Bank Account

   essential

   Visit banks like Sabadell, BBVA, or CaixaBank. You'll need your NIE and passport. This is crucial for rent payments and daily expenses.

3. 3

   Get a Local SIM Card

   essential

   Purchase a Spanish SIM from Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, or MásMóvil. Essential for communication, housing searches, and navigating Alicante.

4. 4

   Obtain a TAM Transport Card

   essential

   Get your personalized TAM card at a TRAM station or authorized kiosk. This card works for both the TRAM and urban buses in Alicante.

5. 5

   Actively View Shared Flats

   essential

   Visit as many potential rooms as possible in person. This helps you assess the condition, location, and meet your future flatmates.

6. 6

   Understand Your Rental Contract

   essential

   Before signing, carefully read and understand the terms, duration, deposit, and notice period. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification.

7. 7

   Insure Your Belongings

   nice-to-have

   Consider basic contents insurance for your room. While not mandatory, it provides peace of mind for your personal items.

8. 8

   Familiarize with Local Neighborhoods

   recommended

   Explore areas like San Blas, Carolinas, or near the university (San Vicente del Raspeig) to understand their vibe, amenities, and transport links.

9. 9

   Connect with Roommates

   recommended

   Spend time getting to know your new flatmates. Establishing good communication early on is key to a harmonious shared living situation.

10. 10

    Locate Essential Services

    essential

    Find your nearest supermarket, pharmacy, and a local health center (Centro de Salud) for any immediate needs or emergencies.

1. 1

   Apply for a Social Security Number

   essential

   If you plan to work, you'll need a Número de Afiliación a la Seguridad Social. Apply at the Tesorería General de la Seguridad Social office.

2. 2

   Register with a Health Center

   essential

   Once empadronado and with a Social Security number (if applicable), register at your local Centro de Salud to access public healthcare.

3. 3

   Explore Local Markets and Shops

   nice-to-have

   Visit Mercado Central for fresh produce and experience local life. Discover smaller, independent shops for unique finds and better prices.

4. 4

   Understand Utility Bills and Payments

   essential

   Clarify how utilities (electricity, water, internet) are split and paid with your flatmates. Set up direct debits where possible for convenience.

5. 5

   Join University Clubs or Activities

   recommended

   If you're a student, engage with university life. It's an excellent way to meet people and integrate into the local academic community.

6. 6

   Discover Alicante's Cultural Scene

   nice-to-have

   Visit Santa Bárbara Castle, explore the Explanada de España, and enjoy local festivals. Immerse yourself in the city's rich culture.

7. 7

   Learn About Waste and Recycling

   recommended

   Understand Alicante's specific rules for waste disposal, including recycling bins (yellow for plastics, blue for paper, green for glass).

8. 8

   Set Up Your Internet and Mobile Plan

   essential

   Ensure your internet is stable for work or studies. Review your mobile plan to suit your usage and consider bundled deals with flatmates.

9. 9

   Start Learning or Practicing Spanish

   recommended

   Enroll in a language course or join a language exchange group. Improving your Spanish will greatly enhance your daily life and integration.

10. 10

    Explore Day Trips from Alicante

    nice-to-have

    Take advantage of Alicante's excellent transport links (TRAM) to visit nearby towns like Benidorm, Altea, or El Campello for a change of scenery.

• Always physically view a room before committing; photos can be misleading. Check the actual neighborhood vibe and public transport links.
• During peak university enrollment, rooms disappear fast. Be prepared to act quickly and have your documents ready to submit immediately.
• Leverage local 'Se Alquila' (For Rent) signs in windows, especially in older neighborhoods, for unlisted gems that bypass online competition.
• Don't be afraid to negotiate rent slightly, particularly if you're offering a longer contract or can pay a few months upfront (if comfortable).
• Connect with current tenants when viewing. They offer invaluable insights into landlord responsiveness, utility costs, and flatmate dynamics.

This guide is tailored specifically for Alicante, Spain, recognizing the unique challenges of high demand from students and expats, the local bureaucracy like Empadronamiento, and the efficient TRAM and bus network. The advice on contract types and average rents reflects Alicante's specific shared housing market.

• Best neighborhoods
• Cost of living
• First month guide
• Student discounts
• Public transport
• Pet-Friendly living
• Expat community
• Remote work cafés
• Local food
• Neighbourhoods

• Rental contracts
• Tenant rights
• Deposit protection
• Registration guide
• Flatshare etiquette