Spanish Hoops!

So I have nearly finished jumping through Spanish hoops.  I picked up my permanent SIP card today, after a two week wait.  I had to go to the Health Centre in GA, handed over my temporary card and was given my new one.  I am now entitled to free Health Care, access to Social Security and the like. Not that I intend to claim benefits, as I am still working hard and intend to keep doing so. The card affords me the protection I need to live and work in Spain.  Personally I think I got to this point relatively quickly, others can take much longer.

​I have been living in Spain just over three months now, so it is also time to apply for Residencia.  As I will be living in Spain permanently, I need to apply for permanent residency.  There are of course many things you need to have achieved before you can get to the stage of applying.  You  need your NIE number, Social Security mumber, entry on the Padron, house contract, pay slips, SIP Card and passport.  In effect they want you to prove you are working and are not going to be a drain on Spanish resources and are paying into the Spanish system.

I have finally reached all the requirements, so today paid a solicitor to do the necessary work for me to get my 'Green Card', which should be completed on Monday at the Police Station in Elche.  That will then be everything completed to finally be a permanent resident in Spain, and all the benefits that come with that, including pensions and health care!

Had a few drinks with Brett and Roger, after work last night.  It is always nice having a chat with these guys, who have been nothing but welcoming and genuine towards myself and Jason.  They always give good advice and point us in the right direction, should we need to work our way through the Spanish system!