Moving to Valencia
from Australia
From Sydney's cost of living to Valencia's Mediterranean pace — Australians are one of the fastest-growing expat groups in Spain. Lower costs, incredible food, and 300 days of sunshine make Valencia a natural fit.
~24h
Sydney → Valencia
60%
Cheaper than Sydney
300+
Sunny Days/Year
You need a visa. Here are your options.
Australian citizens can visit Spain for up to 90 days without a visa. For long-term residence, Spain offers two excellent pathways — and the application process from Australia is straightforward.
Most popular for retirees & passive income
Non-Lucrative Visa
Min. Income
€28,800/yr (solo)
Validity
1 yr → renewable
Live in Spain without working for a Spanish employer. You can still receive passive income — rent, dividends, super drawdowns — from Australian sources.
Best for: Retirees, landlords, those drawing down superannuation.
Full Guide →Best for remote workers & freelancers
Digital Nomad Visa
Min. Income
€34,188/yr
Validity
1 yr → 3 yr
Authorises remote work for non-Spanish employers. Access to the Beckham Law flat 24% tax rate for 6 years — a major advantage for higher-earning Australians used to 45%+ tax.
Best for: Employed or freelance remote workers billing Australian clients.
Full Guide →Your Australia → Valencia Timeline
A practical month-by-month checklist for Australian expats — from planning to landing.
3–6 Months Before
- check_circleDetermine your visa category (NLV or Digital Nomad Visa)
- check_circleGet Australian Federal Police criminal record check apostilled via DFAT
- check_circleOpen Wise account — the best way to transfer AUD → EUR without bank fees
- check_circleSpeak to an Australian tax adviser about CGT and residency implications
1–3 Months Before
- check_circleSubmit visa application at Spanish Consulate (Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth)
- check_circleArrange private health insurance — required for NLV, must be sin copago
- check_circleNotify ATO of your change of tax residency (lodge final Australian tax return)
- check_circleResearch Valencia neighbourhoods and shortlist rental options
Weeks 1–4 in Valencia
- check_circleRegister at Empadronamiento — your local Junta Municipal office
- check_circleBook NIE appointment at Gran Via Marqués del Túria, 67
- check_circleOpen a Spanish bank account (Sabadell or CaixaBank for expats)
- check_circleRegister your Australian driving licence with DGT within 6 months
Months 2–3
- check_circleRegister with a Spanish GP at your local Centro de Salud
- check_circleEnrol children in school — Caxton College and Cambridge House for British curriculum
- check_circleFile Modelo 030 tax registration with Agencia Tributaria
- check_circleReview superannuation status — most Australians retain their super in Australia
Australia vs Valencia — Cost of Living
On average, life in Valencia costs 55–65% less than Sydney or Melbourne. Your savings stretch much further.
| Item | Australia (AUD) | Valencia (EUR) | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bed City Centre | A$2,800–4,500 | €900–1,200 | ~65% |
| Monthly Transport Pass | A$200+ | €17.50 | ~90% |
| Meal Out (mid-range, 2 ppl) | A$100–150 | €35–50 | ~60% |
| Monthly Groceries (couple) | A$700–900 | €280–380 | ~55% |
| Private Health Insurance | A$300–600/mo | €80–150/mo | ~65% |
| International School (annual) | A$25k–45k+ | €8k–18k | ~50% |
Key Differences for Australians
Superannuation stays in Australia
Your super remains locked in Australian funds until you reach preservation age. Most Australians keep it invested there and draw down as foreign income once eligible.
Beckham Law = massive tax win
If you qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, the Beckham Law cuts your Spanish tax to a flat 24% for 6 years. Compared to Australia's 45% top rate, this is one of the best tax deals in the world for high earners.
Medicare doesn't transfer
You cannot use Medicare in Spain. You will need private health insurance from day one — required for visa approval and essential for healthcare access before you get a SIP card.
Driving licence re-examination likely
Australia lacks a direct exchange agreement with Spain, so you may need to sit a DGT theory and practical test after 6 months. Start the process early to avoid a gap in driving rights.
Australian bank transfers made easy
Use Wise (formerly TransferWise) for AUD → EUR transfers — you'll save 2–4% vs your Australian bank's exchange rate. Many Australian expats also keep a Revolut card for daily European spending.
Regular flights home
Valencia has no direct flights to Australia — you'll connect via Dubai, Singapore, or Doha (24 hours total). Budget A$1,500–3,000 return. Many Australians fly home once a year for family visits and tax planning meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to move to Valencia from Australia?
Yes. As a non-EU citizen, Australian passport holders can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. For longer stays, you need a long-term visa — either the Non-Lucrative Visa (for passive income/retirees) or the Digital Nomad Visa (for remote workers). The Spanish consulate in Sydney and Melbourne processes both.
What happens to my Australian superannuation when I move to Spain?
Your superannuation stays in Australia. You cannot access it early just because you moved overseas. Preservation age rules still apply (60–65 depending on your birthdate). Once you meet the conditions of release (reaching preservation age and retiring), you can access it from Spain. Many expats retain their super in Australian funds and draw it down as income once eligible.
Will I have to pay tax in both Australia and Spain?
Australia and Spain have a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA), so you should not be taxed twice on the same income. However, the interaction is complex: once you break Australian tax residency, Australia stops taxing your foreign income — but departure may trigger CGT events on Australian assets. Get advice from a tax adviser who understands both jurisdictions before you move.
Can I use the Beckham Law as an Australian?
Yes, if you qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa. The Beckham Law (Régimen de Impatriados) lets eligible workers pay a flat 24% tax rate on Spanish-source income up to €600,000 for 6 years, instead of the progressive rate (up to 47%). For Australians used to 45%+ marginal rates, this is a significant financial advantage.
Can I exchange my Australian driving licence in Spain?
Australia does not have a direct licence exchange agreement with Spain, unlike the UK. This means you may need to sit a Spanish driving theory and practical test with the DGT after your initial period. You can drive on your Australian licence for up to 6 months on a tourist/temporary visitor basis. Consult the local DGT office in Valencia as regulations can vary.
Is Valencia popular with Australians?
Yes — Valencia has a growing Australian expat community. The Mediterranean lifestyle, cost of living (roughly 60% cheaper than Sydney), quality healthcare, and easy access to the rest of Europe make it a top choice. There is also a significant English-speaking expat community with regular social events.
How long does the Spanish visa process take from Australia?
The Spanish consulates in Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth) typically process NLV and DNV applications in 4–8 weeks from document submission, though it can be longer during peak periods. Start preparing your dossier at least 4–6 months before your intended move date.
Ready to make the move?
Book a free 30-minute consultation with our team. We've helped dozens of Australians navigate the visa, find the right neighbourhood, and settle into Valencia life.
Ready to make Valencia your home?
Book a free 30-minute consultation and let's map out your move together — visa, housing, schools and everything in between.