Pros and Cons of living in Spain 2022: life as American expats

[@JorgeReyes-bo7uc]

As spanish native I would add that the break at stores is not because the employees are taking a siesta haha, is more linked to the profits, since in Spain, around lunch time, wich is a longer time than in the US, there is almost nobody who would go there and a lot less in summer because of the heat (+100F), so instead the decide to rest and split the laboral day in two parts. You guys seems a really cute family and I have to say that the place you have choose is a nice one, I think I could recognice it. Keep the good work and I hope you the best with the paperwork.

[@AG3Family]

Hey Jorge! Thank you so much for your beautiful comment. It allows us to learn more. 🙏🏿❤️

[@AG3Family]

@Brain medicine Thanks for your comment! There are many parts of Spain where it snows. Especially in the northern part. However, there are some parts the south in the mountains where it’s not as well.

[@alexnavarro6941]

And cannot apply to the entire Spain. It doesn't happen in Canary Islands for example, here stores, restaurants and malls are opened all the time. They just make a shift change and continue operating non stop. Maybe it's a regional thing. And maybe stores that are run by the owner on his/her own. He/she needs to rest to eat, and closes while doing that.

[@AG3Family]

@@alexnavarro6941 Yes that makes sense.

[@neslymerat]

Very informative

[@JourneywithJenandDrew]

I'm jealous of your kids - I would have LOVED my parents to do something similar and let me grow up speaking Spanish & English! Such a cool family

[@AG3Family]

🤣Thank you so much!🙏🏿❤️

[@drmarco66]

I love to see another black family living their best lives. Y’all inspire me I hope to be able to make the same move

[@AG3Family]

Sir, Thank you so much that’s what we aim to do!🙏🏿❤️

[@cheerleaderMelanie]

I think that’s why i want to move so bad. I knew about them taking a break from 3-5. In America everything is just gogogo and it’s tiring. Their break throughout the day is needed. I love it

[@AG3Family]

Very true. Thanks so much for watching!🙏🏿❤️

[@fivestar000]

I think 2-5 😂 I’m going to visit the end of this year and hopefully get ready to move 2028

[@baltasarmelchor935]

What wonderful memories of Andalusian nights... I still remember how we "woke up", 2 Americans, 1 Spanish, 1 French and 1 Korean, talking about our existential things from night until morning accompanied by good humans and good music...best of wishes family!!!!

[@AG3Family]

Wow we absolutely love your comment / memory! That what life is all about sharing love and cultures.🙏🏿❤️

[@juanantoniogomez7451]

Sorry about your difficulties with Covid Passport... It's something we are still learning how to deal with, and constant changes on the actual laws and situation makes it even more difficult to deal on daily basis. About siesta, well... that's really a thing. It's something to do with summer heat. When you hit 119F you don't want to be on the streets, so most small businesses close for two reasons: First, you won't have any customers, they are hidding from the extreme heat, and second, the cost of AC would be just impossible to bear for a small business. You can still go to Carrefour (Small Tesco like superstore), to the Mall or Ikea, but that's about it. There is usually what we call "jornada partida", a split openning timetable, kind of. In summer is quite common to open 9 to 14 and then 17 to 21 (more or less), and winter can go from 9 to 14 and 16 to 20. If you work in an office you'll probably work 8 to 15 straight in summer (jornada intensiva) and 9 to 14 and then 15-16 to 18-19 (maybe a bit more if you are leaving early on fridays, also a tradition that's growing fast, luckily). In summer construction starts weirdly early and ends at 14 the latest to avoid heat related accidents and deaths. Welcome to Seville, anyway. May you need anything, just ask, We met two of your wonderful family memebers at our bakery shop and we were delighted with the chat we had.

[@AG3Family]

Juan Antonio, Ahhhh thank you so much for your comment and thorough explanation, it makes perfect sense about the heat. 🙏🏿Maybe will cover that subject this summer.

[@The0ldboy]

@@AG3Family There is a very important historical reason that curiously few current Spaniards know (I mean the general public). In 1593 King Felipe II decreed in the laws of the Indians.That the Indians could not work more than 8 hours and these would be divided into two 4-hour days to avoid the greatest hours of sun. This law was made by copying some previous ordinances that were given to the workers who built "El Escorial". In such a way that Philip II was the creator of the 8-hour working day. To this day, he remains in some split-workday jobs due to the needs of the job itself .

[@AG3Family]

@@The0ldboy Ahhhh, thank you so much for this information! 🙏🏿

[@BlitzOfTheReich]

@@AG3Family Also, I would argue it's actually really healthy.

[@vicgo3519]

Siesta in Spain is a complete stereotype. It is like saying that everybody in The US are cowboys. Siesta is not for everybody... no way above labor days (from monday to friday) and a good option for weekends after the huge meals we usually have in Spain. The rest is a myth out of reality.

[@maytelazarogranon]

Hi family! 💖 As someone that has lived abroad I had to face some of the challenges you mention (language barrier, bureaucracy...). It's normal, so don't feel discouraged by that. Regarding COVID passport, as others have already mentioned, if you have legal residency with a job contract, then you are registered in the Seguridad Social, which gives you full free healthcare coverage for you and your kids. Just go to your closest health center and request your health card. You will also be assigned a doctor. Then, you can get vaccinated (if that's your choice) and get the COVID passport. Anyway, hopefully all these restrictions are removed soon 🙏

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for your comment and information. 🙏🏿❤️

[@valsummerfield3069]

I love to see Americans pursuing their dreams and going for it. Good vid

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much!🙏🏿❤️

[@AG3Family]

@Hull Brady We are indeed 100% BLACK AMERICANS🎊💯But your assumption that we are not is not at all offensive. 🙏🏿❤️

[@akken2112]

I admire this family for having the cajones to leave the United States of Violence to raise their children in another country. The most interesting thing about their cons about living in Spain is that they never mentioned race. I can't imagine an African American giving their cons about the US and not mentioning white supremacy (racism) as a con.

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for your comment. Racism is an obvious issue but there are levels of racism. While we have experienced some racism here in Spain; it’s been minimum in comparison to the racism in America. Overall, we are happy here. 🙏🏿❤️

[@Brian-nn1tf]

As someone from latin america, european spanish is actually not all that different from our spanish. Maybe to someone who doesn’t speak spanish at all it might sound completely different, but at least to me other than the accent and a few phrases/terms (which is what it’s like for different latin american countries as well ) it’s pretty much the same.

[@AG3Family]

Hey there! Well, true. We often tell folks there’s a similar and slight difference between UK English versus American English the same as you described castellano Spanish versus Latin Spanish. Thanks for sharing!

[@MrBlackgobbo]

But it is true that living in south of spain could be a initial barrer because its local accent. We love it, but compare to the estandar one that foreign people study, it's a hard one to start living in spanish language, much more if we are speaking about Sevilla XD

[@AG3Family]

Yes the “accent” is what makes it difficult for others to understand.

[@deamorebeaute2412]

It's very different actually. Spaniards speak Spanish in it's proper form. Unlike, Latin Americans, who have a completely different set of colloquialism, history, and cultural traditions that is completely separate from Spain. You have to understand that Spaniards are not Mestizo like the vast majority of Latin Americans. They aren't descendants of any Native American tribe. Latin American culture is a melting pot of Middle Eastern, African, Asian, and Substrate Indigenous Native American culture. Spain has more of an imitate history with Africa in antiquity, than Latin America. Africans ruled over Spain for almost 1000 years.

[@franciscocastro7916]

@@deamorebeaute2412not exactly, it was for around 700 hundred years and not all over Spain. Secondly, the natives became “muslims” but they were mostly “ethnically “ Iberians” (that made the Arab and Jewish population rather small, it was unusual to mix.The DNA of both groups in today’s Spain is almost insignificant ). At that time “Spain” didn’t exist as such. The Iberian peninsula was a “group” of several kingdoms (most Christians). After the “Reconquista “, Muslims and Jews were exiled from the peninsula. Greetings.

[@Ana-Maria-Sierra]

I speak Latin American Spanish fluently and have lived in Spain. I have no problems communicating in Spanish in Spain. Every country has their accents and unique argot. Just like the Brits speak differently from Americans, Puerto Ricans speak differently from Spaniards. However, Andalucian Spanish is among the most similar to the Spanish spoken in the Caribbean and many other parts of Latin America. The challenge is that Americans think they can move to other countries without needing to learn the language. It’s just crazy.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for watching. 🙏🏿❤️We have made similar points in our other episodes. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4LGfKOMftWehaMsi=iQzkIpeDXLne-xs4

[@GSEDaddy]

Correct me if I’m wrong but Spanish in Spain is not really as different to Latin Am Spanish to the point where it’s almost like a different language. Of course there are differences but I’d say It’s comparable to English from the US vs the UK. Also, In Latin America it’s called Spanish because the language comes from Spain, but in Spain they also call it castellano because it derives from the region Castile and there are other languages in Spain that would also be considered “Spanish” languages.

[@AG3Family]

You are 💯correct! 👍🏿🎊

[@santimio4098]

Why did you all move to Spain? Work? I have always wanted to move there because my family is Cuban and great grandparents are from Spain (Islas Canaria’s). I just feel like it won’t be easy to do so and even if it’s easy to get a job there. Congrats

[@AG3Family]

Hey thanks so much for watching! Great question, and yes we did move here because of work opportunities. If your great grandparents are from Spain, then I believe there is a type of residency that you can gain through Spanish ancestry. harveylawcorporation.com/spanish-citizenship-by-descent/

[@sallyfuentes6223]

Great vid. Thank you for putting it out! Such a lovely family ❤

[@AG3Family]

And thank YOU so much for watching and supporting! 🙏🏿❤️

[@shinyshinythings]

This is really enjoyable. It reminds me of the things that caught us off guard when we arrived a year and a half ago, especially the siestas (which you’re correct are all year round, not just in the summer time - it’s when the shop keepers can do their own errands and have lunch with family, because then they have to reopen and stay open until 9pm or 9:30). Tip for would-be expats re the language barrier: sign up for Spanish classes asap. Your local city probably offers them very cheap. Take advantage. Many people either don’t speak English or they aren’t confident enough to engage in conversation.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for your encouragement and advice!🙏🏿❤️

[@javierbusto1964]

Lovely video…as a Spaniard living in the U.S. I applaud 👏 you for having the courage to live your best life!

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much Don Javi!🙏🏿❤️

[@PriceGroove]

This is really helpful. Very similar to the challenges I’m experiencing in Mexico. I love living abroad but there are definitely challenges

[@AG3Family]

Exactly💯 thanks so much for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️

[@laurettasbritishgingert6243]

How is life in Mexico?

[@freer1176]

I love the video and you have a beautiful family! Thank you so much for posting.

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for your kind words. And thanks for watching and supporting! 🙏🏿❤️

[@gemablanquer91]

Lol, we , Spanish ppl, have the same issue with the language when we move into the US... We arrive to the US with our propper English and ppl talk to you with an American accent that makes us think we wasted out time taking English lessons in Spain. It's a very very very different English than the one we learn in Spain. 🌹

[@AG3Family]

🤣 We can imagine!

[@davecloony5404]

I have the experience of being an immigrant and I know well how daunting it can be! So, I take my hat off to you and your family! In fact, my wife and I have been thinking about leaving the beautiful, but expensive California and move somewhere that our money can buy more for us. Which part of Spain do you suggest we move to?

[@AG3Family]

Hey Dave! Thanks so much for your comment🙏🏿❤️ We live in Andalucia, Spain which is in the southern region of Spain. However, we are still exploring and don’t know much about other regions of 🇪🇸. But from what we have learned, in general Spain is a beautiful, peaceful and safe place to live. Málaga, Cádiz, Madrid, Canary Islands are all great choices. Feel free to email us if you have any specific questions.

[@GGNaturals]

Just found your channel. Thank you for giving this really helpful information. I look forward to seeing more of your channel. Beautiful family!

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for watching and supporting we appreciate you!🙏🏿❤️

[@frankcherry3810]

I have always heard that Spaniards and French eat dinner late… really late for americans. I live in Thailand now. Flexibility, adaptability are always needed… along with a big smile

[@AG3Family]

You’re 💯 right 🙏🏿❤️

[@frankcherry3810]

@@AG3Family I have heard that some of the ‘interior areas’ are much cheaper for an American

[@AG3Family]

@@frankcherry3810 The general cost of living is cheaper here in Spain than the United States it’s true. But as Americans, sometimes people (in general) try to take advantage if that makes sense

[@rebeccagutierrez1960]

Wuuuu!!! I hadn't even finished watching the info to your video and I already subscribed! Greeting from beautiful Puerto Rico. 🇵🇷

[@AG3Family]

Hey new friend from 🇵🇷 🎉! Thank you for joining the AG3 Family!🙏🏿❤️

[@onthemoney8356]

Excellent video we really appreciate you making it. Very high-quality and well done.

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️

[@loloflores123]

This video is old, but I feel sadness and even regret for having come to Spain which is heartbreaking (specially in the last COVID part). And yet this regret is expressed humbly. I hope you guys are now better and happier, and everything is working out.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for your sympathy🙏🏿❤️Things are MUCH better now, thank God.

[@MariaIsabelMolina-c5b]

It isn't strictly for siesta, but for lunch. Most Spanish workers will have a lunch break in which they'll go home to eat and if lucky have a little nap, then go back to work till evening...

[@AG3Family]

Ahhh yes true! Thanks so much for clarifying!🙏🏿❤️

[@212jor]

Liked and subscribed after the intro song. Love this. Thanks for the video!

[@AG3Family]

Hey! Thank you so much for joining the AG3 family, we appreciate your comment and support!🎉🙏🏿❤️

[@BlitzOfTheReich]

Andalusia is fantastic. I am American (also from Florida), but I am a Spanish citizen, and I love Southern Spain (don't like Catalunya though). Glad you are enjoying it. They aren't taking siestas though. Shops just close because nobody will go eat. It's the same in France but they close from around 2 pm to 6-7 pm. 5:51 Castellano is also used in some South American countries to distinguish Spanish from the other languages of the Iberian peninsula. Peninsular Spanish is a bit different, but your Floridian base will come handy especially in Andalusia where the accent is similar to Caribbean Spanish.

[@AG3Family]

Ahhhh ok! Thanks so much for your comment/info!🙏🏿❤️

[@eclecticx]

US Expat here. Cons? After living in Costa del Sol for the better part of nine years, I honestly can't think of a single one. Pros? Everything.

[@AG3Family]

Hey Mark! We love it🤣 thanks for your comment. 🙏🏿❤️

[@Bilisjourney]

🫶🏽 spreading love!!! love this 5th one 😍 beat wishes to you all!!

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much Fam!🙏🏿❤️

[@IrayaGC]

I think it's kinda cute you have both souther american english and castilian spanish 🤭¡¡Saludos desde Tenerife!!

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much 😂We love Tenerife by the way!

[@juanluislopezmartinez7346]

Amos, me encanta veros tan unidos y con tanta complicidad en vuestras vidas. Espero que seas muy felices en vuestra estancia en mi tierra. Mi hija vivió un tiempo en California y dos de mis nietos nacieron en la Jolla (San Diego) aunque ya viven en Sevilla. Un abrazo para toda vuestra familia.

[@AG3Family]

Señor, Muchas gracias por compartir y por tus amables palabras.🙏🏿❤️

[@rubencastillo4420]

Congrats to you and your fam hope to see you in Spain when I move out there

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for watching! Yes, hit us up when you get here! 🙏🏿❤️

[@corkandi]

Great video guys! And you're so right - we only get one life. I lived & worked in Southern Spain for 16 months between 2005 & 2006. I have since taught English in Salamanca, most summers. Now, I would love to sell up and relocate to Spain, permenantly. However, Brexit has made this goal extremely difficult for us Brits. I have an NIE and a social security number, but I don't qualify for a visa after a 90 day stay. Maybe one day...

[@AG3Family]

Hey Fam, Thanks so much for leaving a comment 🙏🏿❤️ Have you considered working “remotely” e-mail us at [e-mail]

[@positivevibes2468]

Excellent video tysm. You guys are just precious. New subscriber here! Hugs from TX USA❤️

[@AG3Family]

Hey Fam! Thank you so much for the support; it means a lot!🙏🏿❤️

[@kwakusam1248]

Very stunning, your videos are very educative, information and fun, I really admire this family, especially joy, she is very real, natural, I love her sense of fashion very simple, God bless AG3 FAMILY

[@AG3Family]

Hey Kwaku, Thank you so much for your kind words.🙏🏿❤️

[@kwakusam1248]

@@AG3Family welcome

[@iamjaz13]

Thank you guy for this info. My wife and i are currently live in south Florida and we are considering a mve to spain

[@AG3Family]

Thanks for watching!🙏🏿❤️ We have more episodes coming with updated information so please stay tuned!

[@caballoloco100]

I think being non-EU nationals makes things harder, as there is a European covid passport in place, so fellow European citizens can come in freely subject to the local covid restrictions. If you work legally in this country, you are entitled to free healthcare and two covid jabs with the covid passport for each family member who gets vaccinated. The best and cheapest way to learn spanish is attending weekly language clases at the official school of languages. Just pay €100 plus books for the whole year. Enrolment Kicks off in September if l am not mistaken.

[@AG3Family]

Ok thank you so much for the information!🙏🏿❤️

[@franciscocastro7916]

Cheapest way to learn Spanish is, watching tv, reading newspaper’s and getting in contact with Spaniards. We are very open minded people, specially in the south. Greetings.

[@mendamend]

thank you for sharing. you have a very beautiful family. God bless you all. All the best in Spain.

[@AG3Family]

Hey Richard! Thank you so much 🙏🏿❤️

[@jordiperez8963]

Love the video !! From Jupiter, Fl and really looking to move soon. My dad is from Spain and I would love to go back to my roots

[@AG3Family]

Hey Jordi! We are Floridians too 🎊and we’re sure that you would love it here in 🇪🇸!

[@knsmith91]

Thanks so much for sharing! I’m looking at move to Spain next year and wondered how you guys it? Did you apply for a certain visa? Wish moving wasn’t so difficult lol

[@AG3Family]

Hey thanks so much for watching! We initially came here for a job at the opportunity, which gave us a working visa here we end up falling in love and are not working on getting permanent residency. There are multiple visas that you can choose from such as; student visa -going to school non-lucrative visa, when you have your own income, etc.. The move wasn’t so bad because we we’re a bit extreme in the aspect of selling almost everything and just moving.😆we hope this helps!

[@jyager281923]

ok great to see these videos, i am married to a local sevillana from San Jernimo and we plan on moving and retiring in the Rota area, This information is real helpful, i have one question for you, how hard was it to get and NIE or a Spanish drivers license.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for watching and supporting.🙏🏿❤️ To obtain an NIE and a Spanish drivers license are both a bit tedious to be honest, but not impossible. Since your wife is a national of Spain, it should be a little bit easier for you. We believe there’s some type of a spousal residency that you can acquire. But any US embassy should be able to assist you guys.

[@jonathanalbarran5478]

Great video very informative! how was the transition from leaving Florida to living in Seville? i am also a South florida native born and raised in the ft Lauderdale area lol. wishing you and your family a healthy and prosperous future there!

[@AG3Family]

Thanks you so much Jonathan! 🙏🏿❤️Our transition can best be described as a “beautiful culture shock” 😂

[@liv4joy238]

I’m from West Palm Beach but my Mom was from Broward county. And to be honest, living here in Spain sometimes I feel like I’m in 1950s South Florida 🤣.

[@vgjl1824]

And?

[@liv4joy238]

@@vgjl1824 🤣 Well, we live in southern Spain, where the culture is very rich in tradition. They are very old fashion and open. It’s similar to the 20th century southern culture in Florida/ the south. Also, the architecture is beautiful and antique (Roman and Islamic based), which reminds me a lot of the southern Spanish influenced homes and buildings in South Florida. And of course, living by the coast☀️🏝 in both Florida and here in southern 🇪🇸!

[@vgjl1824]

@@liv4joy238 I live in north of spain, we are more diferent

[@tomas212]

I have a question, If you have NIE means you are a legal resident in Spain. You just need to go to your local medical center and get vaccinated. Then you can download your EU covid certificate. I don’t understand why so much difficulty. Unless you got vaccinated in the US? Thanks for sharing. Your channel is very cool! Saludos

[@AG3Family]

Thanks for your comment! As for the NIE, not quite. If you have an NIE then you’re either a 1.) legal immigrant or 2.) a resident. It’s the foreigners with no residency that are having difficultly.

[@janecarneiro]

Hi Joy and Amos. I loved your video. My family and I are seriously thinking to move to Seville and we live now in South Flórida as well. We fall in love with the city when I was visiting on spring break. I have a question: where are those two places on the end of the video? One is the long beautiful beach and the other one is like a hotel or castle on middle of the mountain. Thank you for sharing this beautiful moments with your family with us! 😊

[@AG3Family]

Hey there Family! Thanks so much for watching!🙏🏿❤️The particular part of the video you’re referring is “stock footage” that we used. It’s one of the beaches in Southern Spain but we can’t remember where, sorry! 😆

[@tubaljohn1]

Thank you for posting. My wife and I are considering retiring there from Chicago. Do you mind if I ask you a few things?

[@AG3Family]

Hey John! No problem! You can email us at [e-mail]

[@Naruedyoh]

Nice to see you're loving living Spain. Just keep in mind the NIE is for identification in Spain and it's for tax purposes and identification. See it as the Social Security number but for every ID, Social Security number is just for work purposes and for social security grants, like unemployment and retirement.

[@AG3Family]

Hey there! Thanks so much for clarifying!🙏🏿❤️

[@xavierharris1450]

Hey y’all! My wife and I are toying with the idea of moving to Spain. How are the Covid rules now? Do you need the Covid passport to get into any place? Are they more relaxed now?

[@AG3Family]

Hey Harris Family! Great questions. Spain has definitely let up on the covid restrictions. But you do have to provide either a Covid passport or an official negative test result to get into Spain. We have upcoming episodes about this topic so please stay tuned!

[@angiealexis3717]

Thank you for the info, you're all the best! 🙂👍👍

[@AG3Family]

Thank YOU for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️

[@gg13308]

Just found your channel, my first trip to Europe was to Madrid...Seville is now on my list to visit..thanks for this great video and good information

[@AG3Family]

Hey Anita! Thank you so much for joining the AG3 Family! We appreciate your support 🙏🏿❤️

[@DrCrystalHarris]

This was an informative video. Thanks for the great content. I’m looking forward to slow travel through Western Europe in 2023. I’m not expecting then to speak English unless it’s a tourist area. So this is further incentive to pick up the pace of my lessons. I’m also considering joking a language program there when I come to people people and work on the dialect. Thanks for sharing 🙏🏾❤️ muchas gracias

[@AG3Family]

Hey Crystal! Thanks so much for your comment🙏🏿❤️You have the right idea to start lessons.💯🎊

[@ericmangona3464]

Great video!! You guys inspire us. I would be super interested if do a video on your cost of living. Looking at moving to Seville in 1 or 2 years to retire. We have 2 teenage kids and interested in how you do schooling for your kids.

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for your comment! Please check out our other episodes that may answer some of your interests. We are currently doing an episode that will cover cost of living.👍🏿🙏🏿❤️

[@mid_century_me]

Wonderful video. I look forward to your upcoming segments. Would love to see your channel grow ( I just subscribed). I have a dream of living in Spain one day... just got to convince my husband! I visited as a 17 yo (school trip to Madrid, Sevilla, and Granada). Thinking of a vacation next year for a visit to Spain, but have to do my homework and see how covid will affect plans.

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for joining the AG3 family! 🙏🏿❤️When you vacation 🇪🇸 with your family then you probably will be able to win your hubby over!🤣

[@0401london]

I’m pretty late but I’m thinking about moving overseas to play professional volleyball and my top choices are Spain, Portugal, and Italy. I wanted to ask how is it being black in Spain?

[@AG3Family]

Hey London! First of all congratulations that’s awesome! Volleyball is BIG here in Spain. Honestly, each person’s experiences are different. Racism is unfortunately everywhere in different forms. However, we haven’t had any major issues here and are very happy. Also, in Portugal you will find more POC there. We hope this helps but shoot us an email if you have any specific questions. 👍🏿❤️

[@kaylaterry3872]

So excited to find your channel!! I'm a black American woman also living in Spain ( Arenys de Mar). My two boys were born here, and my husband is Catalan, originally from Barcelona. I plan on staying here permanently but homesickness hits so hard sometimes. But I'm loving your videos so far, its super interesting to see others experiences in this beautiful country ❤

[@AG3Family]

Hey Kayla! We so excited that you joined the AG3 Family.!🎉🙏🏿❤️ You and your family sound wonderful! We completely understand the homesickness because we experience the same sometimes.

[@DrBeeSpeaks]

The fact that you need a C19 passport to go places takes it off my list to live, for now, I'll visit. ❤

[@AG3Family]

Hello, This episode was recorded 1.5 years ago and a lot of the regulations have changed since then. Check the laws before you visit and you should be good. 👍🏿❤️ www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/dhaka/en/Comunicacion/Noticias/Paginas/Articulos/Covid19-Entry-requeriments-20sp22.aspx

[@DrBeeSpeaks]

@@AG3Family Thank you for the tip, very helpful! ❤

[@dominiclavu193]

We're considering moving from California to Valencia, Monte Pego, to be exact.Good ? Bad? Any other areas you would suggest we look at? We're retiring and safety, peace & quiet is our priority . Thanks !

[@AG3Family]

We haven’t explored much of the other regions of Spain yet, but from what we know both Valencia and Monte Pego are beautiful and safe.

[@GeeTee2023]

I think this is awesome to see a family make that move and be happy and enjoy the decision y’all made! I’ve been wanting to move as well! How do you find successful work out there especially if you don’t speak any Spanish? Also is it mandatory to have the Covid shot?

[@AG3Family]

First of all, thanks so much for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️ Many people find remote online jobs so that they can work from anywhere so it depends on your expertise. Amos and Joy are both veterans and were blessed to secure a government job. And no, it’s not mandatory to have the COVID shot. We hope this helps!

[@hepcadiz]

If you have a NIE and residence permit, then it is posible that you have your social security number (numero de afiliacion a la seguridad social), if not, first get a certificado de empadronamiento from the Town Hall (Padron de habitantes) , then you have to go to Administración de la Seguridad Social (there is one in Utrera, Avenida Abate Marchena, number 5) and apply for a social secutity number (numero de afiliacion a la seguridad social); then, if you are more than 90 days in Spain, go to the Centro de Salud de Utrera and aply for public health care and then you can be vacinated

[@AG3Family]

Ahhhhh, thank you so much for this information! 🙏🏿

[@paoloconsalvo5519]

Thanks for the great videos !! They are super informative. We live in Tampa and are considering a move. We all speak Spanish and other languages. Options might be: Ticino, Italy or Spain. Any opinions / advice on what would you recommend ?? I’m a digital nomad. If Spain, how did you choose a city ?? Coming from Tampa, we are concerned about the Winter. Thanks in advance.

[@AG3Family]

Hey Family! Thanks so much for watching! As fellow Floridians, we recommend the southern region of Spain as the winters are not too cold. Portugal and Mexico are also great options. With your passport you have up to 3 months to be here and scope the place out. Overall, choosing a place to relocate is like a glove. Certain places may fit you while other places may not. But once you find the perfect fit, you will know. We hope this helps.🙏🏿❤️

[@paoloconsalvo5519]

Thanks !! Hugs to you all !! Gracias

[@ignacioheredia9599]

¿Lo ideal en España? 6 meses (otoño e invierno) en Sevilla, Granada,Cádiz (la ciudad con aire más "latino colonial de España") Málaga o Huelva (la ciudad es fea hasta decir basta, pero tiene las mejores playas de Andalucía y está a media hora del Algarve, la región sur de Portugal, y a una hora de Sevilla, capital de la región) y seis meses (primavera y verano) en Gijón, Santander, Coruña o Pontevedra... Belleza en el paisaje costero, naturaleza rebosando a poca distancia de la playa y clima suave (no más 30'c) en verano.

[@pablolazaromartinez3541]

It's annoying theres no simple solution to the covid passport for expats. Sevilla has a long relationship with foreign visitors and there should be a process established for that

[@AG3Family]

So true. 😓

[@aidyn006]

So question. What do you do for a living? If you're ok with answering, where do you land on a salary range? Sorry if this has been answered previously.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks for your comment and questions. Amos is a government contractor and Joy is a writer.

[@aidyn006]

@@AG3Family thank you for the reply. We're looking to potentially move to Spain (or Costa Rica) from the US and these videos are going to be a lifeline!

[@AG3Family]

@@aidyn006 Two great choices! We have more upcoming episodes about the “expat” lifestyle so stay tuned!👍🏿

[@nahlaadas5861]

Hi guys, first of all thanks for the video. My husband and I (with 3 kids age 7, 4 and 2 ) are planning to move to Spain, both hubby and I speak a little bit Spanish but not the kids so we are a bit worried about school. Our oldest is in grade 2 and she is in English school now, We are thinking to enroll her in a Spanish public school. how was it for your kids ? Was it a smooth transition? Were there any communication challenges considering that neither the teacher nor her friends will be talking English? I appreciate your feedback and advise.

[@AG3Family]

Hey there! Thanks so much for your comment, we are happy to answer your concerns. We have learned that “total integration” was the best way to adapt. Please rest assured that children’s minds are like data processing computers and they will most like adapt better than us parents may expect. But there any many options of schools here in Spain. There are plenty of international schools here that speak English and Spanish. AG3 member Joy, has a website with some blogs that may further answer your questions. 😉🙏🏿❤️ authorjoyeglenn.com/

[@michelledale4380]

Wonderful positive vibe. I love it.

[@AG3Family]

Hey Michelle! Thank you so much!🙏🏿❤️

[@pfunkbeats4403]

I’m looking to move there after my retirement . I will be asking y’all some questions soon

[@AG3Family]

For sure Fam, that’s what we’re here for!🙏🏿❤️

[@mcruzalonso4160]

Hello everyone, I just wanted to say that what you say about how things are about the corona virus is not correct. I was in Germany last week and if you don't have the three doses of vaccine you can't get anywhere. My son only had two doses and to be able to have a coffee anywhere or go to many places. to do a quick covid test. Greetings

[@AG3Family]

Ahhh ok. Thank you so much for leaving your comment and clarifying for us!🙏🏿

[@joseline9344]

I want to move here one day! I heard it's been extremely hot lately out there with the heatwaves going on how have you guys been managing with that? Is there AC for homes? Are there any wildfires out here as well?

[@AG3Family]

Hey Joseline! Yes Spain’s heat is on a different level!🤣Great question! Most homes have AC wall units in the main areas and rooms. However, Spanish homes and buildings are built to retain temperatures, so the night and morning cool air typically keeps the house temperature regulated. So being used to the heat will be something you have to adjust to. There are some wildfires in areas like Huelva, southern Spain.

[@joseline9344]

@@AG3Family Thank you! I have been dealing with heatwaves too in Texas, it can get up to 110F.. Do you think with the wild fires that have been going on that it's something I should maybe avoid from moving there? I want to live out there one day but now i'm a bit hesitant with everything that's been going on out there weather wise(wildfires).. any advice?

[@AG3Family]

@@joseline9344 we completely understand your concerns. Yes this heatwave is affecting all the desert like areas. Spain is a big country and the wildfires only affect a portion of the southern parts. I wouldn’t be too concerned about it. It’s still an overall good and safe place to live.👍🏿

[@joseline9344]

@@AG3Family Thank you so much!

[@AG3Family]

@@joseline9344 you’re very welcome!

[@oxfordden3661]

Did you all find jobs in Spain? I'm curious how you sustain since I want to come in two years and not worry about living on the edge. Thank you!

[@AG3Family]

Thanks for your comment! Yes, Amos is a contractor here in Spain.

[@vanessa9024]

@@AG3Family what is Amos ? Please post link for jobs good paying jobs for African Americans to apply for

[@AG3Family]

@@vanessa9024 It all depends on your interests and experiences. Amos is a U.S. government contractor. He was able to find this job opportunity through a Vererans source. We are not sure about how to find jobs in Spain. But we’ll keep you informed if we learn anything further. 👍🏿

[@anacasanova7350]

Ya no hará falta el pasaporte Covid a partir del martes, tengo entendido. No es tan malo lo que os sucede. Tenéis mucha suerte de vivir en España con asistencia gratuita 100% de primerísima calidad. Cosa que en Usa no existe universal y "gratuita"

[@AG3Family]

Ahhh de acuerdo y muchísima gracias Ana!🙏🏿❤️

[@SecretSauce8]

what village is that? has a nice tram and nice buildings?

[@AG3Family]

Thank you! 🙏🏿❤️It’s Utrera-Sevilla.

[@ilbobisss]

Thanks for the video. So what are your pros? You mainly focused on the bad things. Are you there permanently? NLV? So, so you guys like living there, or regret moving to USA. This is the first video that I have watched from your channel. Thank you kindly

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for watching!🙏🏿 There are many pros to living in Spain and we cover it on our other episodes. But this particular episode we wanted to focus on some challenges that we as American expats face.

[@silverwolf1983]

What baffles me as a spaniard, is the NIE and the COVID passport restrictions... and how the foreigners are not taken into account. I thought the the NIE was the equivalent of NIF. (numero de identificacion de extranjeros vs numero de identificacion fiscal).(the NIF is the DNI number) Now the rules are better for COVID at least.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks for commenting 🙏🏿❤️ And you’re right; things are much better now.

[@noname-by3qz]

Thanks for the info. I'm trying to help a couple get 1-2 work visas so they can get out of Palestine. They have a baby boy and they want him to have better chance. The problem is I can't in good conscious, bring them to America. I'm trying to find 1 or 2 jobs for them somewhere, anywhere. Just hopefully not here.

[@AG3Family]

We totally get you. You can email us at [e-mail] if you have any further questions. 👍🏿❤️

[@noname-by3qz]

@@AG3Family Thanks soooo much

[@ciccioinsa9644]

Can I ask you if you had a hard time finding a job there? If yes, how did you find it? And in how much time?

[@AG3Family]

Hey there, great question! Amos was blessed enough to find a government job through his U.S. veteran experience. Many people work freelance online, while other teach English. Depending on your expertise, finding work can vary.

[@ryanpritchard3755]

Thank you for the advise. Hoping to move to Spain soon.

[@AG3Family]

That’s awesome! Hopefully you will enjoy it here as much as we do!

[@Alicia-ck3qd]

Thanks for sharing your experience and tips. Can you make a video on enrolling your children in school?

[@AG3Family]

Alicia, Thank you so much for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️We recently did a school episode but not specifically about enrollment. The enrollment process is quite simply. You fill out your child’s information and turn it into the school secretary. The school secretary them processes the paperwork by enrolling the child into the school system. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZWWZ4iVeLeCmbs

[@christinapryor7934]

are they still doing the covid passport thing?

[@AG3Family]

Great question! We don’t believe they are still doing the COVID passports as of now. However, our advice is that you double-check Spain's vaccination requirements before coming.

[@heinerperdomo]

How did you guys get residency?

[@AG3Family]

Well, there are many ways to get residency but we came here on a working visa. After living here for a certain amount of years, we were able to apply for residency. We have plans to cover this in detail in future episodes. But if you have specific questions please feel free to contact us via email. 🙏🏿❤️

[@Bilisjourney]

pls talk about requirements for enrollment in the school system there or homeschooling? any knowledge on the subject as an american living in 🇪🇸?!!

[@AG3Family]

Hey Fam! Great question! We did an episode about schools but not about enrollment. The school enrollment process is actually quite simply. As long as you have the proper paperwork. Shoot us an email if you have any specific questions.👍🏿❤️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZWWZ4iVeLeCmbs

[@sandrachao72]

I have a question for your canal.. Why North Americans go to Spain to live? Maybe it is about Jose Andres or not?

[@AG3Family]

We’re not quite sure what your trying to ask, but everyone has their different reasons. Our personal reasons why we moved to Spain are discussed in this episode. ⬇️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zl61nHeCZbCZjKc

[@nancyharris4913]

I know that this comment is late, but I wanted to thank you for sharing your insights! As a North American I appreciate your viewpoint. I love your take on the Covid regulation challenges. My only small bone to pick is that your US $ is being 'devalued'...it's just a different currency. I guess as a Canadian we are used to thinking about all world currencies and don't think euros = CAD. (but we still will whine about C$ vs US$, so perhaps your point is well taken.) All the best to you and your family!

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for your comment. And you make a great point because now the USD$ is almost equivalent the euro€

[@celiamartinez3075]

Thank you for this video. We plan to move to Southern Spain w 5year old and infant. Could you post anything info about schools there. What's it been like for your kids going to school in Spain. Our children are African American and we wonder what that experience as well.

[@AG3Family]

Thank you so much for leaving a comment! Our children have adapted really well in the local school here. Have they faced obstacles? Of course, but overall, the school systems in Spain are great in our opinion. authorjoyeglenn.com/2021/11/10/autism-and-gifts-how-my-sons-teacher-encouraged-him/

[@Zoolama34709]

As a Mexican/American the Siesta part also happens in Mexico ❤Love it! We should have siesta hours in the U.S too wishful thinking. Spain is a place I want to live too❤ Spanish for me is easy peasy since Spanish is my first language ❤ Love you guy’s video 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@AG3Family]

Ahhh, we didn’t know that! But we love comments like yours where we can learn “poco o poco” about other cultures. Thanks so much for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️

[@Zoolama34709]

@@AG3Family Así es👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Saludos y bendiciones❤️ Son una hermosa familia 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@AG3Family]

Muchas gracias amigo!🙏🏿❤️

[@Zoolama34709]

@@AG3Family De nada🤗

[@idaclout]

thanks for the information! Im from the U.S and I can see myself living in a different country. I can't be like those people that grow up in a town and just live their whole life in one spot. Do you see your family living in another part of the world or is Spain the place you are ready to stay for retirement?

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for sharing. And fair question: While we are not opposed to the idea of living elsewhere; we definitely see ourselves here in Spain long term.

[@idaclout]

@@AG3Family ive been watching more of your videos. you were in the military too! I'm currently in the air force.

[@AG3Family]

Yes, Air Force as well!👍🏿🎉

[@KaliKali-hv9bt]

I stayed in Seville 20 years ago with a study abroad program that contracted with my University (Tuskegee). Planning a trip to go to London > Paris > Rome > Spain(may not have enough time for Spain, sadly) will prolly just go to Madrid.

[@AG3Family]

Hopefully you can find time to revisit Spain as well👍🏿❤️

[@Keeks492]

I grew up in Spain. Good old memories, la siesta. I missed that so much here in the USA.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks for sharing! What state are you in?

[@Keeks492]

Utah. I’m actually from a Spanish speaking country in Africa called Equatorial-Guinea 😊

[@AG3Family]

@@Keeks492 Oh wow! We have a good friend here in 🇪🇸from Equatorial-Guinea!

[@elwood7512]

Hi I’m moving to Andalucia in September. Will you all still be there?

[@AG3Family]

Hey there! Andalucía is a great choice and yes we will still be here! Email us at [e-mail] if you have any questions.

[@dwalker6868]

Thank you for sharing

[@AG3Family]

And thank YOU for watching and supporting!🙏🏿❤️

[@pepelopez4123]

La Siesta is almost only in the south of Spain....you now know the summer in hear...the bed calls you. Un saludo desde Sevilla

[@AG3Family]

Ahhh, 😂Yes it makes sense because of the heat in the south!

[@QueenieCurtis]

Has the Covid vaccination laws changed since you made this video?

[@AG3Family]

Hey there! Yes, everything is practically back to normal now. Masks are only required at medical facilities and no one is asking for vaccination cards anymore.

[@QueenieCurtis]

@@AG3Family Thank you!! 💜💜💜💜

[@marthaannrichardson]

Thank you for confirming my choice, to move next year to Spain.

[@AG3Family]

Yessssss great choice!🎊 Thank you for watching and supporting! 🙏🏿❤️

[@_Viking]

How can it be difficult to convert euro and dollar? It's almost the same value.

[@AG3Family]

The value fluctuates and that can be frustrating.

[@AlexSotelo7]

I'm trying to be like you bro. My fam and I (Americans) are in Qatar and we're trying to make moves.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for watching. 🙏🏿❤️Amos has worked in Qatar before and it’s an equally beautiful and safe country to raise a family.

[@josephsabio]

Were you able to get the Covid Passport?

[@AG3Family]

Yes we were. Even though many of the restrictions have been lifted since this video and they are no longer required except for traveling.

[@reginapolo3357]

I'm in Italy and the hours of operation here is the same and it was hard to get used to.

[@AG3Family]

Really? After five years, we’ve gotten used to it!😂

[@f.l.y.l.a.6025]

I've been thinking of becoming an expat. I'm planning a trip there in April 2023...(I speak ZERO spanish). That's my biggest fear. Ughh...

[@AG3Family]

We completely understand. Take these next few to study a few common phrases, and that may help your confidence. And feel free to shoot us an email if you have any specific questions.😉

[@myash32]

So do you have to be vaccinated to operate there?

[@AG3Family]

Good question: they highly encourage vaccination, but it’s not mandatory.

[@fredazcarate4818]

As European American. May I ask why you put a Latin American Stand in when speaking about siesta. I have Italian and Basque blood through my father and Northern Italian as well Norse from my mother. And this custom is part of the culture of Southern Europe. They work longer hours so they take a longer lunch break. I am surprised that the time you spent in a Southern European country you did not pick up the custom.

[@AG3Family]

Thanks so much for your comment! No particular reason, Just different editing techniques. And for the siesta, maybe we SHOULD pick up that custom!👍🏿😂

[@gemablanquer91]

Sevilla/Andalucía is beautiful, but you may visit Barcelona...you would fall in love with Barcelona, there is a more open mentality and much more things to do than in Sevilla. Barcelona is more 'international' and more racially mixed.

[@AG3Family]

Hey thanks for your comment! Yes, we have been to Barcelona and you are right about the difference in diversity. We always tell people that “places are like gloves, some may fit good while others may not.”

[@gemablanquer91]

@@franciscocastro7916 you are nothing but an ignorant who likes to attack ppl on Internet.

[@user-wn4kj6wo6c]

¿More open mentality in Barcelona? Se ve que no conoces Sevilla ni Andalucía.

[@AH87saxo]

Siesta is a stereotype. Almost all small businesses close around lunchtime (🇪🇸 , not 🇺🇸😅). Those that do not close are usually from people from other countries (Chinese stores, Pakistanis, etc.), supermarkets, hypermarkets, etc. Small "businesses" often do. They are usually run by 1 or 2 people or it is a family business. And they don't usually do Apu Nahasapeemapetilon's schedule 😅🙈

[@AG3Family]

Ahh makes sense. Love this explanation! 🤣🙏🏿