Having visited Ibiza, you may consider taking the next step and relocating for the summer, the year, or even the rest of your life.
Here is our handy guide to help you decide if moving to Ibiza is right for you!
The ex-pat community in Ibiza is plentiful. There is something magnetic about the island that draws people in, changing their lives forever. It is common for people to visit for a vacation or a work season and desire to relocate to Ibiza more permanently.
However, moving to Spain can be daunting, and if you decide to make the move permanently, there are several things to consider. Any potential obstacles can be easily overcome for those ready to move to Ibiza.
FINDING ACCOMMODATION AND LIVING IN IBIZA
If you decide to live in Ibiza, one of the most important decisions you will have to make is where you will base yourself. To be part of the community on the island, you will either have to stick to specific locations or have access to your own transportation. The English ex-pat community in San Antonio is the largest all year round, while other areas like Playa D’en Bossa tend to become ghost towns in the winter. Other potential areas like Ibiza Town remain open but may be generally more favoured by the Spanish.
If you have your own transportation, your options become much broader. You can check out the quieter areas or even rent a beautiful villa in the hills of Ibiza. Santa Eulalia and Santa Gertrudis are also worth considering for families. Both host international and Spanish schools, but enrolling your child in a Spanish school may depend on your location.
If you have the capital, you might consider buying. Alternatively, renting a property all year round is more than possible and much more economical than seasonal leasing.
LIVING IN IBIZA DURING WINTER
Living in Ibiza will give you the privilege of experiencing the island’s beauty in winter. As the clubbers go home, you’ll discover that the island has much more to offer. You could find yourself on Cala Bassa beach without another person in sight or soaking up the sunset from a new vantage point. The temperature rarely dips below 10 degrees, so you will find it comfortably warmer than the UK.
So what do people who live in Ibiza all year round do? Firstly, many nightclubs host events throughout the year; believe it or not, plenty of parties are still happening. There are also a lot of local gems that remain open while most tourist traps are shut. Winter is the perfect time to sample the plethora of Ibicencan restaurants in search of the ideal paella; Ibiza Town is a great shout for this.
Ibiza is also known for its fiestas and Saint days. San Antonio, for instance, is a hot spot for Kings Day celebrations in January and ‘Flower Power’ is another extraordinary event not to be missed. Without breaking the bank, you can experience plenty of nature activities, local markets, and community events during the off-season. For example, the ‘The Pintxos Trail’ allows you to follow a specified route of venues, all offering a drink and a tapas for just €2. Bargain!
LIVING COSTS IN IBIZA
Generally speaking, the cost of living in Ibiza differs slightly in the winter compared to summer. Tourism puts a premium on prices, but there are many ways to live economically. You can find many local restaurants that offer discounts for residents if you get to know them. Reasonable prices can be found at larger supermarkets like Lidl, Mercadona, and Eroski. There is always a premium on English commodities, so stock up!
Transport and fuel in Ibiza are similar to the UK; buses are a great way to save money. However, during the winter, they operate on a less frequent timetable.
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TO LIVE IN IBIZA
Since Brexit, living and working in Ibiza has become tricky. If you plan to stay for more than three months, you must apply for a resident certificate. To obtain this, you may be required to prove that you have sufficient finances to sustain yourself and your family. Private or public health insurance may also be necessary.
The other crucial document you will need is a tax identification number or NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), especially if you plan to work. We highly recommend checking out for the legal requirements to live and work in Spain as a British citizen.
If you plan to work in Ibiza, check here for more information.
SEARCHING FOR ACCOMMODATION IN IBIZA?
For villa rentals, please visit Villa Rentals Ibiza; for hotel accommodation, please use the search below.
