Article submitted by Wemploy
Wemploy Recruitment Specialists is a Spanish-based organisation with an unwavering commitment to the true meaning of Recruitment. Established with the aim of continuously providing a professional service tailored to meet each client’s unique requirements, the results to date have escalated Wemploy Recruitment Specialists into one of the market leaders in their field.
Please visit www.wemploy.com
Question:
What are the rates of pay like in Spain?
Answer:
Comparing the rates of pay in Spain to other European countries is a difficult question to answer. Where you live and what type of position you hold factor greatly.
Spanish wages are less than those in the United Kingdom but bear in mind that the cost of living in Spain is less and the lifestyle better. In general the working hours in Spain during the Summer months include a Siesta which is a 2-3 hour break in the afternoon. Most businesses close at this time of the day and re-open in the evening.
Question:
What are the costs of living in Spain?
Answer:
A general rule for many people, when calculating the cost of living in Spain is that, if it is going to cost you 150 euros a week to live in the UK, it will cost you around 100 euros a week to live in Spain. This rule obviously has its exceptions but if you use this rule across all your expenses you will find that it wont be too far out. Eating out can be extremely well priced and it is possible to have a "menu of the day" for as little as 6 or 7 euros for which you will get three courses including a bottle of wine and bread. It is often cheaper to eat out than it is to stay in! A good meal for two with wine, including tips and VAT is rarely more than 50 euros.
The cost of living depends mostly on whether you buy imported or locally produced goods. Generally you should expect to budget for everyday living costs on the same basis as you would in the rest of Europe.
Living costs can vary substantially depending on the area you live in. Generally the cost of living is higher in urban centres than in rural villages and towns. For eg On the Costa del Sol, it is more expensive to live in Marbella or Puerto Banús than in Coin or Alhaurin.
Question:
I can't speak Spanish. What do you think the chances are for me finding work on the Costa del Sol?
Answer:
Speaking Spanish is not a necessity, BUT, it is very useful.
You will be able to find employment on the Costa del Sol but your choices may be limited due to the lack of languages.
We do recommend learning some Spanish before making the move.
Question:
I am looking to move to Spain, and require as much information as possible on how to apply for jobs before I go.
Answer:
Applying for jobs on the Costa del Sol is different than in the UK. Unemployment is high and for 1 position we can receive up to 100 applications.
If you have any qualifications, EG; Qualified accountant, Legal qualifications or IT qualifications then you chances are dramatically increased.
Also speaking a second, third, forth or even fifth language will be very much to your advantage.
Question:
What can I do before I travel to Spain to better my chances of finding employment?
Answer:
Make sure you know what you are doing. Moving countries is a huge step. It can be very stressful, difficult and frustrating.
Apart from having at least a basic knowledge of Spanish we recommend that you do your research before moving.
Research the area that you want to move to i.e. will I need a car to travel to work and what is the public transport like in the area?
Research the Schools - i.e. are there any near to where you want to move to and are they suitable for your children?
Question:
I don´t have an EU passport or working papers for Spain. How do I obtain the correct paperwork?
Answer:
We advise that you contact your local Spanish Consulate for more information on the best course of action to take regarding working in Spain
