Your pension in Spain: what do you need to arrange as a Belgian retiree?

Dreaming of enjoying your retirement under the Spanish sun? You are certainly not the only one. Spain has long been a favorite destination for Belgian and Dutch retirees, thanks to its mild climate, relaxed lifestyle, and excellent healthcare. But to enjoy your retirement without worries, you do need to take care of some administrative matters. We’ve listed them for you.

Residence permit application

 If you settle in Spain for a longer period, you must officially register as a resident. This is done at the Oficina de Extranjería or the Policía Nacional in your region. You will need a valid passport or ID card, proof of sufficient financial means, proof of medical coverage, the completed application form (EX-18), and you must pay a small administrative fee. Once approved, you will receive a registration certificate and a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), which you need for almost all official and financial matters in Spain.

Healthcare and health insurance

 As a Belgian retiree, you are entitled to healthcare in Spain through the public healthcare system. The condition is that you remain affiliated with your Belgian mutuality. Therefore, request the E-121 form (also called S1) before departure. This form entitles you to registration with the Spanish health insurance (Seguridad Social). After registration, you will receive a tarjeta sanitaria, the Spanish health card that gives you access to doctors and hospitals. If you are not affiliated with a Belgian mutuality, you may opt for private insurance, which often offers faster access to care and English-speaking doctors.

Insuring your partner

If your partner is financially dependent on you, you can include him or her under your S1 form. You must provide official proof of marriage or legal cohabitation. Only legally recognized partners are eligible.

Receiving your Belgian pension in Spain

You will continue to receive your full Belgian pension even if you settle in Spain. You may choose to have it transferred to a Belgian or Spanish bank account. An international transfer is also possible, though less recommended due to variable processing times. Note: certain pensions, such as civil servant pensions and war pensions, remain taxable in Belgium. For other types of pensions, such as employee or self-employed pensions, an exemption often applies. Contact your pension fund to be sure, especially if you worked in a specific sector (e.g., NMBS).

Reporting your move to the Pension Service

If you are moving to Spain, you must notify the Federal Pension Service at least two months in advance. Do this in writing via a signed letter stating your departure date, your new address in Spain, and your chosen payment method. You can send the letter to the Brussels head office or scan and submit it via the online contact form.

Life certificate: a mandatory confirmation

If you live abroad and receive a Belgian pension, you will regularly receive a life certificate. This form must be returned within 30 days, legalized by an official institution such as your municipality (Ayuntamiento), the mayor (Alcalde), the police, or the Belgian embassy or consulate. A stamp from a bank, doctor, or pharmacy is not valid. If the form is not returned in time, your pension payment will be temporarily suspended.

Changing bank account

If you wish to receive your pension in a new Spanish bank account, notify the Pension Service in time. They will send you a form to be completed by your Spanish bank. Important: do not close your old account until the first payment has been received in your new account, to avoid interruptions. Changes can be submitted by email, phone, or via the contact form.

And then… enjoy!

 Once these practical matters are settled, nothing stands in the way of your Spanish retirement dream. Whether you choose the coast of the Costa Blanca or the inland countryside, Spanish life awaits. So take the time to sort out your administration, and then it’s: feet up, tinto de verano in hand, and enjoy la vida tranquila.

Share