Why did I decide to stay in Spain after my studies?

Studying in Spain

I consciously skipped the exam to stay in this country. I moved to Spain in 2014 when I decided to leave my parents' home. How did I come to such a choice? At that time, I was studying Spanish at university and wanted to live in a country where this language is native. I had already visited Spain multiple times and fell in love with its atmosphere, realizing that I wanted to spend a significant amount of time here.

Meeting a Spanish student

In St. Petersburg, I met a Spanish student studying Russian. She suggested that I immigrate as a student. This proposal left me confused—I already had two higher education degrees: one in museum studies and the other in graphic design. I was outraged: "How much more studying do I need?" However, she kept insisting that this was the best path for me.

Choosing a study program

I decided not to pursue a degree in graphic design in Spain, as I didn't want to study the same subjects in Spanish. Instead, I chose a completely different profession based on my interests, and if I can't work in my field, it's not a big deal. In the end, I enrolled in a master's program in "History of Spanish Art" at Complutense University.

Duration of the master's program

Studying for a master's degree in Europe usually lasts one year, but I aimed to stay in Spain for a longer period. Therefore, I had to plan my studies for two years. I intentionally took some exams later: I actually missed one of them, which left me with a debt even after defending my thesis. This prolonged situation lasted for three years, but in the end, I did pass the exam and received my master's degree.

Housing rental

In the absence of an employment contract, I will need to find guarantors who are citizens of Spain. My first move: I lived in a small studio in the center of Madrid. While I was looking for suitable housing, I stayed with a friend. In the end, I found a small apartment in the center, in the La Latina neighborhood. This area is known for its historical heritage with narrow cobblestone streets that have been preserved since the 17th century. The apartment turned out to be very cozy and quite affordable by local prices.

Apartment description

It was a kind of studio with a separate room. I rented it for 500 euros a month, not including utilities. A friend of mine agreed to be my guarantor and confirmed that in case of my unexpected disappearance, she would take responsibility for the rent.

It's important to know about renting.

Spanish landlords prefer to rent their properties to three main categories of tenants:

• Students who have a stable financial situation;
• Working adults;
• To those who can provide guarantors from among the citizens of Spain.

If a potential tenant is not a student of a Spanish educational institution, they will be asked to show an employment contract. Otherwise, they will have to look for local friends with Spanish citizenship who are willing to act as guarantors for renting an apartment.

Deposit and rent

In the absence of certain guarantees, the landlord may require a deposit equal to not one, but a full two months' rent. A long-term rental agreement is usually concluded for a period of one year.

Personal experience in Madrid

In my first apartment in Madrid, I experienced what was probably the coldest winter of my life, even though I'm originally from St. Petersburg. The reason for this was the building's design: instead of a traditional entrance from the landing, access was through an internal courtyard, which required climbing an external staircase. This created extremely uncomfortable conditions, and the temperature in the studio was simply terrible.

During this time, my parents visited me. My father came up with a plan to seal the gaps under the door, as cold wind was coming inside. I could only sleep in the small room where the door was tightly closed, and I had to cover myself with a warm blanket.

Heating problems

The heating in the apartment was electric, and using it burdened me with serious expenses, so I turned it on very rarely. Later, I regretted it when hefty utility bills arrived. In winter, the amount I paid for utilities never dropped below €100 a month.

I left this accommodation after 11 months, a little earlier than planned, but the landlord nevertheless returned my deposit with great generosity. This difficult yet valuable experience turned out to be quite useful, as after living in a house with my parents, I wanted to feel independent. Over time, I realized that I was missing social interaction, and I was ready to share a place with roommates.

Buying apartments in Madrid

In Madrid, there is an opportunity to purchase apartments if your financial budget allows it. For example:

• Apartment for €640,000In the Hispanoamerica area, with a total area of 108 m², it includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious living room connected to the dining area, featuring large windows and an open kitchen equipped with modern appliances and a Silestone countertop. This apartment also has a separate bedroom with a single bed and a walk-in closet.
• Apartment for €580,000In the suburbs of Madrid, in the quiet area of Ortales. This modern stylish residence with a northeast-facing terrace covers 134 m² and includes a spacious living-dining room, an open-plan kitchen, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms, one of which is attached to the bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. The building also has an elevator.
• Apartment in Huertas Cortés for €515,000This property has an area of 78 m², with two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a living room combined with an open-format kitchen. It is located on the fourth floor of a classic building with an elevator and facilities for people with disabilities. The apartment is spacious and bright due to its large windows, and its usable area is 93 m², making it attractive for purchase or rental.

Real estate in Spain: attractive offers from Mercury Group

Real estate in Spain continues to attract interest, and the Mercury Group offers a variety of appealing options for those looking to invest in this amazing country. Let's take a closer look at some of their offerings.

Townhouse in Madrid

The first property is a townhouse located in Madrid, in the highly sought-after area of Soto de la Moraleja. This elegant duplex, with a total area of 179 square meters, impresses with its exquisite design and includes 4 bedrooms along with 2 modern bathrooms.

• Successful location:Just a few minutes' walk from shops, educational institutions, and public transport stops.
• Closed complex:It offers a swimming pool, paddle tennis, green areas for leisurely walks, a children's playground, and concierge services.

Apartment in the center of Madrid

Another interesting property is an apartment in the very center of Madrid, covering an area of 136 square meters. It offers 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, two of which are equipped with bathtubs.

• Modern design:Fully renovated apartment on the second floor with stylish decor and magnificent wooden finishes.
• Modern technologies:The interior is enhanced with LED lighting fixtures that highlight the overall style and comfort.

Apartment in the Sol area

For those looking for something more compact, an interesting option is an 88 square meter apartment in the spacious and well-known area of Sol. This updated space includes 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, making it a good choice for couples or small families.

• Aesthetic furniture:Designer furniture and carefully selected lighting create a cozy atmosphere.

Apartment on the fourth floor

Equally attractive is the apartment on the fourth floor, covering 84 square meters in the center of Madrid. It also features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, one of which is specially equipped for the convenience of residents.

• Exquisite interior:Styled with custom furniture and elegant wooden elements.

Elite offers

The Mercury Group portfolio also includes many other interesting properties. For example, a luxurious apartment in the Goya area, located opposite the famous building, spans 200 square meters.

• Spacious bedrooms:3 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and plenty of built-in wardrobes.
• Dressing room:The master bedroom has its own walk-in closet.
• Kitchen:The spacious living room opens up to a fully equipped kitchen with high-quality appliances from Siemens.

Among other exclusive offers is an apartment in the Salamanca area, covering 167 square meters. It features a high standard of finishing and includes 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, making it an ideal choice for luxurious living.

Investment opportunities

All the real estate properties offered by Mercury Group are perfect for those looking to obtain residency in Spain and dreaming of a high-class life in the most comfortable environment. Don't miss your chance to secure an attractive future in one of the most picturesque countries in Europe. Each of these properties can meet even the highest demands of clients.

Interesting housing options in Madrid

Not far from the famous Retiro Park, just a few minutes' walk away, there are interesting accommodation options available. For example, an apartment offered by the company Mercury is valued at760,000 €and is located in the capital of Spain — Madrid. The total area of this residential space is85 square metersand includestwo bedroomsandtwo bathroomsThis updated apartment is located on one of the most upscale streets in the Salamanca district.

The interior space includes a cozy living room that seamlessly transitions into the dining area. The windows face the street, filling the rooms with natural light and creating a pleasant atmosphere. The kitchen is designed in an American style and is fully equipped with top-of-the-line modern appliances.

Stylish penthouse in Las Tablas

There is also a unique apartment in Madrid, priced at610,000 €, presented by the Mercury group. This is a modern penthouse with an area of112 square meterswith a terrace occupying30 square metersIt is located in the Las Tablas area, in a prestigious residential zone, which includes:

• two pools
• modern gym
• spacious living room
• well-maintained gardens
• round-the-clock security for added safety

Inside the penthouse, there is a cozy living room and a well-equipped kitchen with appliances from the Miele brand. There are also...two spacious bedroomseach of which has large walk-in closets.

Attractive apartment in Soto de la Moraleja

In addition, the Mercury agency offers another attractive real estate property for750,000 €This wonderful apartment is located in the modern residential complex Soto de la Moraleja, surrounded by numerous shops, restaurants, and educational institutions. One of the key features of the complex is the security system with round-the-clock surveillance. A wide protective front door leads into the apartment, where you are greeted by a spacious hallway.

To the left of the entrance is a bright living room, perfect for comfortable relaxation.

Bright apartment in Las Tablas

Don't miss the chance to consider another apartment, priced at525,000 €located in Las Tablas. This spacious living area measures147 square metersand includes three bedrooms, all equipped with built-in wardrobes and air conditioning systems. Additionally, there is:

• two bathrooms: one with a shower cabin, and the other with a bathtub
• a living room with a small terrace suitable for year-round use

Corner townhouse in Soto de Viñuelas

If you need something more spacious, consider the option of purchasing a corner townhouse for629,000 €from Mercury Group. This wonderful residence is located in Soto de Viñuelas, not far from Tres Cantos, near Kings College. Thanks to its thoughtful layout and location, the apartment provides excellent lighting in all its rooms and offers breathtaking views, creating an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility.

Adjacent house in Tres Cantos

Housing is also available at a price.589,000 €— a magnificent adjoining house that has been completely renovated and is located in Tres Cantos. The main part of the house features a bright, spacious living room with air conditioning, which opens onto a terrace and garden. The kitchen has also been updated, and there is a separate guest toilet.

All the listed properties offer excellent investment opportunities in real estate in Madrid and provide numerous advantages for comfortable living.

General description of the apartments

On the second floor of the building, there are three cozy bedrooms and two bathrooms. The master bedroom has all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

Apartment from Mercury Group for €525,000

Mercury Group presents an attractive apartment in the capital of Spain, Madrid, priced at €525,000. The total area of this apartment is 84 square meters; it features two bedrooms and one bathroom, with the option to add a separate toilet. The kitchen is connected to the living room, creating a space for leisure and relaxation. The apartment's windows offer a wonderful view that will last for a long time. The building housing this apartment was constructed in the 1960s and is equipped with amenities such as a concierge, a video intercom system, and an elevator. The overall condition of the apartment can be described as excellent.

Apartment in Salamanca for €590,000

In addition, Mercury Group offers another apartment in Madrid for €590,000, with a total area of 75 square meters. This modern and recently renovated property is located in one of the most prestigious areas of the capital, Salamanca. Inside the apartment, there are two cozy and quiet bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, as well as one bathroom equipped with a shower. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the necessary appliances, including:

• refrigerator
• the stove
• dryer
• microwave oven
• oven
• dishwasher

Apartment for investment for €360,000

Mercury Group also offers other options, such as an apartment in Madrid, priced at €360,000, with an area of 45 m². This offer is ideal for those looking to make an investment, as the apartment is located in one of the most popular areas of the capital, near the renowned Business Institute (IE). Inside the apartment, there are:

• two bedrooms (one with a double bed, the other with a single bed)
• bathroom
• cozy living room

Apartment in the Maleya area for €630,000

Next, Mercury Group offers a magnificent apartment for €630,000 in the picturesque area of Maléja-Universidad, with an area of 84 square meters. This apartment includes:

• spacious living room
• dining area
• a modern kitchen, fully equipped for comfortable living

This charming accommodation features two bright bedrooms and a large bathroom, making it an excellent choice for a couple or a small family seeking coziness and comfort.

Residential complex from Estate Link for €582,000

Estate Link presents a residential complex in Madrid priced at €582,000, covering an area of 85 m², with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is located in Valdebebas, a prestigious and rapidly developing area that has significantly improved its transport links to the city center in recent years. The architecture of this project is designed to the highest standards and is set to become a highlight of Valdebebas.

The impact of students on the housing market

When analyzing the situation regarding the move, it is important to emphasize that many students come to Madrid every year, which leads to an increase in demand for housing. As a result, the search for a new apartment is a process that requires a significant amount of time. Landlords set strict requirements, raising rental prices, as long-term rentals often turn out to be less profitable compared to short-term ones.

In such a dynamic environment, finding a suitable place to live has become a real challenge for renters.

Problems with renting an apartment

From time to time, I find myself in a situation where the process of viewing an apartment feels somewhat like a job interview. Property owners typically ask me questions about my income, place of work, and other personal details. Unfortunately, it is often the case that landlords rent out their properties without official documentation.

I am convinced that on large platforms with listings, offers are abundant, and navigating through such a flow of information is sometimes much more challenging than in specialized groups. Moreover, you can subscribe to our Telegram channel, where topics such as real estate, immigration, and investments are discussed in a more focused setting. Speaking of employment, I notice that many Spaniards are in search of the perfect job, while I have five active projects at the moment.

Unemployment statistics in Spain

An interesting fact: Spanish job seekers complicate unemployment statistics, as the unemployment rate in the capital is lower than the national average. The main problem is that many Spaniards are unwilling to accept the job offers available, such as positions for cashiers or managers. Most prefer to stay on unemployment benefits while waiting for more lucrative offers—high-paying jobs that match their qualifications. It is these individuals who negatively impact the statistics. They have a biased attitude towards job searching, often express dissatisfaction, but are not willing to retrain.

My professional interests

Unlike this, I have worked in a variety of fields, which has helped me quickly integrate into new areas. Currently, I am juggling several roles:

• I work as a translator.
• I teach the Russian language.
• I organize various events.
• I am engaged in graphic design.
• I studied lettering and I paint chalkboards for cafes and restaurants.

How I came to the profession of a translator

As for translation, this activity entered my life completely unexpectedly. I saw an announcement in a group of Russian-speaking girls in Madrid looking for a translator for an international gastronomic project. At that time, I was looking for a more stable job, as my income from other projects depended on the number of students in my classes and design orders.

The essence of the gastronomic project

The idea of the project is to invite chefs from post-Soviet countries to undergo training and learn Spanish cuisine under the supervision of a head chef. Since many chefs only speak English or Russian, there was a need for a translator who is proficient in Spanish. In the first month of work, I collaborated with a woman from Kyrgyzstan who didn't speak Russian very well. To pay for her training, she sold her car, as it was her first time in Europe.

Difficulties in translation

From time to time, translating has been quite challenging. For example, I'm not very knowledgeable about fish, and I sometimes find it hard to recognize what exactly is in front of me—whether it's halibut fillet or something else. It's even more difficult to find the Spanish equivalent, which requires instant reaction, as the guest chef needs to keep up with the instructions. For instance, if the Spanish chef shouts:Take it off the heat! Quickly!I need to quickly translate this instruction so I don't waste precious time.

Important aspects of life in Spain

What is the experience of living in this country like, how to find job opportunities, and what financial possibilities are available to you? It's also important to consider expenses such as transportation, internet, and health insurance.

Infrastructure and transport

The infrastructure of the Spanish capital, Madrid, is considered one of the best in the country. The metro system operates smoothly and without interruptions. As a result, access to any area of the city is quick and easy.

• A monthly pass for the transportation system in the first zone costs €54.60.
• The pass allows for the use of the metro, commuter trains, and buses.
• Buying single tickets is less economical: ten trips cost €12.20, while the price of a single metro ride is €1.50.

Despite the high quality of life, there are noticeable expenses in Spain. For example, when I lived alone, the internet bill was €40 a month, which was quite a lot. Now, after moving, I share this amount with my neighbors, which has significantly eased the financial burden.

Medical insurance

From the very beginning of my stay in Spain, I took out private health insurance with Sanitas. Although it was quite reasonable, its annual cost was €550, and not all medical services were covered – I had to pay extra for each consultation.

Since 2019, I have switched to state health insurance. The nearest clinic is located close to my home, which is very convenient. However, to see a specialist, I first need to visit a general practitioner, and sometimes getting an appointment with them takes a lot of time.

Personal experience of moving

My move to Spain coincided with the financial crisis in Russia in 2015, and this event significantly impacted my first steps in the new country. For the first three years, I was on a student visa and worked remotely as a designer for a Russian company, receiving my salary in rubles. This period was quite challenging.

With the fall of the ruble at the end of 2014 and its historic low in February 2015, my salary in euros was cut in half. At that moment, I had signed a lease for a studio in Madrid, which made the financial situation particularly tense. However, I soon found ways to improve my situation: I started teaching Russian, looked for additional work in design, and took up painting.

Unfortunately, the situation has not improved. Two and a half years after moving, my employer in Russia decided to terminate my contract, and I was left without my main source of income. Additionally, I spent a year in Spain without legal status, as I needed to submit documents to extend my visa, but I kept postponing it.

The wait for a response from the authorities took longer than I expected, and as a result, I was unable to obtain a temporary residence permit due to difficulties in transitioning from one visa to another. This experience has been a real life lesson for me.

Legalization of stay

I needed to legalize my stay in the country based on residency, as I had already spent three years here at that time. The procedures related tobureaucracyare a real headache, and often something goes wrong. Even if you prepare all the necessary documents in advance, the likelihood of gettingresidence permitThe on-time rate remains quite low.

To apply forwork visaIt is necessary to have valid employment, which is a perfectly logical requirement. But what is the point of looking for a job without a visa? This creates a vicious circle that is hard to escape from. Naturally, if you have acquaintances, you can try to use their help, but that doesn't always work either. Fortunately, even with financial resources, it is impossible to speed up the legalization process, as civil servants do not want to risk their stable positions and decent salaries, since they could be fired for such actions.

The situation with employment

Imagine a situation where an employer has a genuine need for your employment. Even in this case, you won't be able to start working immediately, as you are simply prohibited from performing work duties without obtaining a residence permit. In my case, a positive response to the request for a residence permit came only six months after submitting the documents. What employer would agree to wait that long?

Ultimately, it became clear to me that I wouldn't be able to sign an employment contract, so I decided to apply for a status.autonomousthat is, to become an individual entrepreneur. My field is —graphic designTherefore, I work for myself and pay my taxes independently. I want to note that this approach to obtaining a residence permit is less convenient and requires considerable effort for processing. However, right now, I am essentially free and do not need a sham marriage, as some acquaintances suggested. This really solves many issues related to legalization. Life in Spain has noticeably become easier, as after marrying a citizen of the European Union, you automatically become part of their family.

State assistance

In the conditionsstate of emergencySince March 14, when it started in Spain, individual entrepreneurs who have lost their income or incurred losses of more than 75% are entitled to receive state assistance amounting to 70% of the minimum wage, which is €950. Currently, I am receiving about €660, and this gives me reason to be happy that I chose the path of registering as an individual entrepreneur.

Friendship with Spaniards

When it comes to friendship with Spaniards, it can be quite difficult to make true friends among them. They are not quick to welcome new people into their social circle unless it involves romantic relationships. On the other hand, it's relatively easy to make acquaintances for socializing at events that take place in the short term.

• Russians, although they may be reserved, have a different approach: they become loyal friends for many years.
• Spaniards are friendly and open, love to have fun, but they prefer to invite only their closest friends to celebrations.

Language club

In this matter, meetings at the language club help me.Language ExchangeThis is a wonderful opportunity for those who want to practice foreign languages, establish communication, and make new acquaintances in a relaxed atmosphere. Such events open new horizons for interaction and help find friends that would be difficult to meet in other settings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my experience studying in Spain was not only a journey in a new cultural context but also a profound personal growth that changed my perspective on life. In 2014, when I took the step of leaving my parental home and choosing Spain as my new home, I could only dream of the opportunities that would open up for me. My love for the Spanish language and culture, fueled by a desire for independence, became a powerful driving force in this journey.

Following the advice of my Spanish friend, who suggested I immigrate as a student, turned out to be a brilliant decision. While pursuing my master's degree in the history of Spanish art, I not only deepened my knowledge but also felt like a part of a new cultural environment. It's important to note that despite all the challenges, from language barriers to finding housing, each difficulty provided me with invaluable experience.

Experience of living in Madrid

My first apartment in Madrid left unforgettable impressions. I went through a cold winter, but it was in these challenges that I learned to appreciate the simple joys – like a warm cup of tea or friendly conversations at the local café counter. Although renting a place in Spain requires certain efforts and knowledge of local rules, it helped me become more confident and independent.

Results and recommendations

Now, as I look back on my journey, I feel that I made the right decision. Spain taught me much more than I expected. I gained not only a diploma but also friends, experiences, and memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. I recommend to anyone who is searching for themselves and wants to change their life to consider studying abroad. It can truly be the beginning of something amazing.