Relocating as a family requires more than just excitement and sunshine. There are essential steps to take, especially if you're arriving from a non-EU country.
NIE Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero): Every family member will need one. It’s essential for renting a house, opening a bank account, or registering for school.
Empadronamiento (Local Registration): Once you've found a home, register your address at the town hall. This is required for school enrolment, healthcare, and residency.
Residency Status:
UK & Polish citizens (EU/EEA): Must register as EU residents after 90 days.
US & Singaporean citizens (non-EU): Will require a visa or residence permit, such as:
Non-lucrative visa
Golden visa (if purchasing property)
Digital Nomad visa (depending on profession)
🛠 Tip: Hiring a Gestor (legal assistant) or relocation service can simplify the paperwork – especially for non-EU citizens.
Mallorca offers a variety of lifestyles – from vibrant city life to peaceful countryside. Families typically look for safety, international schools, and good transport links.
Palma de Mallorca: The capital, with international amenities, healthcare, and proximity to schools.
Southwest (Santa Ponsa, Portals Nous): High concentration of expats, English-speaking services, and beach access.
Northeast (Pollensa, Alcúdia): Quieter, more traditional life with beautiful nature.
Central Mallorca (Santa Maria, Alaró): Authentic and family-friendly, with a growing international community.
🏡 Rental Tip: Search for "Alquiler de larga duración" (long-term rental) to avoid short-term tourist pricing.
Many families relocating to Mallorca ask: What school should I choose for my child?
There are three main types of schools on the island:
Public schools (free): Taught in Spanish and Catalan (Mallorquín dialect). Great for long-term integration.
Semi-private (Concertadas): A blend of public and private. Often Catholic, with lower fees than full private schools.
International schools: English, German, French and bilingual options, with IB or British curricula.
British families often choose schools offering the UK curriculum or IB.
American families appreciate IB or US-accredited schools (some accept AP credits).
Polish and Singaporean families often seek bilingual schools to support multilingual development.
🎒 Tip: International schools often have waiting lists – apply early, even from abroad.
Mallorca is extremely family-friendly, with clean beaches, parks, sports academies, and outdoor activities year-round.
Language: Learning basic Spanish (or Catalan) is highly recommended. Children usually pick it up quickly at school.
Healthcare: EU citizens can use the public system with an EHIC card or register for full coverage. Non-EU citizens must get private insurance or register for Spanish healthcare after residency.
Transportation: A car is useful outside Palma. Public transport is improving, but not always ideal for school runs.
💬 Community Tip: Join Facebook groups like "Families in Mallorca", "Expats with Kids – Mallorca", or "Singaporeans in Spain" to connect and get local advice.
Now treated as non-EU citizens.
Must apply for a visa if staying over 90 days.
May need to exchange UK driving licences for Spanish ones.
Need a residence visa before arrival.
US tax obligations continue abroad – speak to a cross-border tax advisor.
Shipping furniture, cars or pets from the US requires extra logistics.
Spanish visas are required.
International schooling is usually preferred.
Private healthcare or global expat insurance is standard.
As EU citizens, you enjoy freedom of movement and easier registration.
Many Polish families integrate into public or semi-private schools but increasingly consider bilingual options.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in Mallorca with my family?
→ Not necessarily, but it helps greatly – especially for dealing with bureaucracy, schools, and neighbours.
Can I work remotely from Mallorca?
→ Yes, especially with a Digital Nomad visa (for non-EU), or automatically if you're an EU citizen.
How expensive is life in Mallorca with kids?
→ On average: €2,500–€5,000/month for a family of four, depending on location and school choices.
Are there many expat families in Mallorca?
→ Yes! Mallorca has thriving communities from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, the US, Poland, Singapore and beyond.
Mallorca offers families a rare mix of safety, beauty, and opportunity. Whether you're leaving the UK for better work-life balance, moving from the US for a sunnier lifestyle, or relocating from Singapore or Poland for a more grounded upbringing – the island has something for everyone.
With good planning, local support, and an open mind, your family’s relocation to Mallorca can be the beginning of a truly rewarding new chapter.
