Moving to Tenerife: The Ultimate Expat Checklist

Your Complete Moving to Tenerife Checklist

Moving to Tenerife is an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning. This comprehensive checklist covers everything you need to know, from paperwork to setting up your new home.

Before You Move

Documentation:

• Apply for your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero)
• EU citizens: Register on the Registro Central de Extranjeros within 3 months
• Non-EU citizens: Apply for appropriate visa/residence permit
• Arrange apostilled documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate if applicable)

Healthcare:

• Apply for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/GHIC)
• Research private health insurance options (€50-200/month)
• Register with the local health center (Centro de Salud) after arrival

Banking:

• Open a Spanish bank account (most require NIE)
• Popular expat-friendly banks: Sabadell, CaixaBank, BBVA
• Consider multi-currency accounts (Wise, Revolut) for transfers

After Arrival

Setting up your home:

• Connect utilities: electricity (Endesa), water (local provider), internet (Movistar, Vodafone, Digi)
• Register on the padrón (municipal register) — essential for many services
• Find reliable tradespeople for any home repairs or improvements via TruTrade

Daily life:

• Get a Spanish phone number
• Register your car or get a Spanish driving license
• Find a local gestoría (administrative agent) for tax and paperwork help
• Join expat groups on Facebook and WhatsApp

Setting Up Your Home

Many expats need home services soon after moving:

• Deep cleaning before moving in
• Painting to personalize your space
• AC installation for summer comfort
• Internet setup and TV installation
• Lock changes for security

TruTrade connects you with all these professionals, with communication in your language.