If you have recently done any kind of search for “living in Spain” or “moving overseas” or “getting a Spanish visa”, you might now be finding the algorithm filling your Facebook and email with ads from various firms purporting to making your dreams of living abroad come true.
And who is flooding social media and Google ads with adverts for helping you move to #Spain?
In many cases, it is law firms. Owned and managed by attorneys.
Wait, isn’t that a good thing? you ask you yourself.
Not necessarily.
Attorneys are absolutely critical to submitting a successful visa application to move to Spain. That’s why this firm only uses the best immigration attorneys.
But the legal aspect is maybe 40% of your move. There is so much more to consider, as well as understanding what services any firm is willing to and able to provide.
So when you’re on a call with that law firm that you saw in a FB ad, ask them questions like this:
- What strategy do you recommend when the consulate keeps my passport?
If this might be an issue for you, we know exactly what you need to do to overcome this potential obstacle.
- If my apostille is stuck at State, how can I get it sped up?
Many Spanish law firms, even great ones, only know Spanish law. They can’t help you with the bureaucracy in the U.S.
- What’s my window to move my belongings tax-free?
We have recommended full-service international moving companies that will clearly outline the requirements for moving your possessions, complete all the customs paperwork for you and answer all of your questions about bringing your belongings to Spain.
- What are your strategies for freedom of movement between huellas and card pick-up?
For people who need to travel outside of Spain before they have their physical card, we can give you the easiest ways to do so legally.
- What is the difference between dealing with the LA consulate and DC? How about London? Boston? Can you cover the differences and how you address them?
Again, Spanish law firms know Spanish law. They don’t always know how the different consulates operate, and this can have a disastrous impact on your visa application.
- If I’m doing a DNV (Digital Nomad Visa) and I’m a US W2, what obstacles will I face?
We have tax and accounting attorneys that can help you understand the various requirements for obtaining a DNV. It’s not as easy as saying you want to work remotely.
- How do I avoid real estate rental and purchase scams in Spain?
These are rampant! We can help protect you from scams that will derail your dreams of life in Spain.
- How does my age impact how the consulates will treat me?
If the firm you choose doesn’t know and doesn’t know how to help you work around it, you could find your visa application rejected.
- How does my move date impact my tax liability?
Without this knowledge, you could find yourself in for a nasty surprise come tax season!
- What are the upcoming changes to the main visas? What about their renewal periods? How does that impact my burden of documentation?
Spanish law is changing frequently. Our attorneys work hard to stay up-to-date on the latest changes and requirements.
If they cannot confidently answer these questions or say they’ll “get back to you,” consider that a red flag that requires caution before you move forward.
If you are ready to start your journey to life in Spain with confidence and calm, Spain Layne can answer all these questions and more. Email us at info@americansmovingtospain.com to get started today!
