Moving to Spain with children
Last updated: August 1, 2026
Relocating to Spain with children is a major life event that requires careful planning. Dutch and Belgian families often have questions about schools, childcare, healthcare, and the practical and emotional aspects of such a move. This guide covers the essentials to help your family transition smoothly.
How does school registration work in Spain?
Spain has a public education system, as well as a wide range of private and international schools. School is compulsory from ages 6 to 16. Children can attend state-run public schools ("colegios públicos"), semi-private ("concertados"), or fully private/international schools.
To enroll your child in a Spanish public school, you generally need to register at your local town hall ("ayuntamiento") and provide:
- Your child's passport or identity card
- Proof of address (empadronamiento)
- Immunization records
- Previous school records (translated, if possible)
Registration periods are typically in spring for the following September start, but newly arrived families can often apply throughout the year. Spots are allocated based on proximity, siblings, and special criteria. International schools have their own admissions processes and fees.
Many public schools offer "welcome" or "reception" programs for newcomer children, with some extra Spanish language support. However, the level and duration of support can vary by region and school. If your child does not speak Spanish, discuss available language support with the school in advance.
How do childcare and daycare work in Spain?
Childcare is available for children from a few months old up to age 3 (before compulsory schooling). Options include public nurseries ("escuelas infantiles"), private daycare centers, and registered childminders ("canguros").
Public nurseries are often more affordable but may have waiting lists. Costs vary widely by region and your family income, but as a rough guide, public daycare might range from €100–€400 per month, while private options can be higher. Check with your new municipality for local options and subsidies.
What about child benefit and family allowances?
Spain's main family allowance is the "prestación por hijo a cargo" (benefit for dependent children). However, the eligibility rules are strict and depend on income, residency status, and social security contributions. Most newcomers need to be legally resident and registered with the Spanish social security system before applying. The allowance is modest compared to Dutch or Belgian standards and not all families qualify.
Child benefit is managed by the Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social (INSS). You can find current rules and apply at their offices or online. If you are still receiving Dutch (Kinderbijslag) or Belgian (allocations familiales/kinderbijslag) payments, check with your home country’s child benefit agency about your status after moving.
How do we register for healthcare and vaccinations?
Once you are registered as a resident ("empadronado") and have local social security coverage (Seguridad Social), you can register your children with a family doctor ("médico de cabecera") at your local health center ("centro de salud"). Present your social security number, residency documents, and your child's health records.
Children’s vaccinations in Spain follow a national schedule, which is similar to those in the Netherlands and Belgium, but check with your pediatrician for any differences. It’s advisable to bring your children’s vaccination records and discuss catch-up vaccines if needed.
When is the best time to move with children?
Where possible, moving just before the start of the Spanish school year (early September) allows children to begin the year with their classmates. If that’s not possible, the next best option is after a major school holiday.
Language is often the biggest hurdle. Younger children tend to adapt quickly, but older children may take longer and need more support. Encourage your children to participate in after-school activities and local clubs to help them settle and make friends. Maintaining routines and keeping communication open about the changes can ease the transition.
Checklist: moving to Spain with children
- Research schools and childcare options in your new region
- Collect school reports, vaccination records, and birth certificates (translated if needed)
- Notify your current municipality and child benefit office of your move
- Apply for your Spanish NIE (foreigner ID number) and residency documents
- Arrange health insurance coverage for your family
- Secure accommodation and ensure you can register at the address
- Pre-register or contact your chosen school or daycare
- Register at the town hall (empadronamiento) upon arrival
- Enroll your children in school or daycare
- Register with your local health center and family doctor
- Submit applications for family allowances if eligible
- Find local language classes or support for your children
- Explore after-school activities and sports clubs
- Help your children get to know the area and make new friends
For a free, complete emigration checklist, see here.
Veelgestelde vragen / Frequently asked questions
Do my children need to speak Spanish before starting school?
No, but it helps. Many public schools offer extra language support for newcomers, especially in areas with many foreign residents. International schools generally teach in English or another language.
Can I keep receiving Dutch or Belgian child benefit after moving?
Usually, once you move and register in Spain, your right to child benefit from the Netherlands or Belgium changes, especially if you work and pay social security in Spain. Always check with your home country’s agency before leaving.
What documents should I bring for my children?
Bring passports/ID cards, birth certificates, vaccination records, recent school reports, and any custody/legal documents. Translations into Spanish may be required for some purposes.
The complete emigration bundle covers moving with children in greater depth, including regional differences and tips for a smooth transition.