Adapting to Spanish Cultural Norms and Traditions as an Immigrant

Coming to Spain as an immigrant from another country means you will notice major cultural differences. That doesn’t mean that Spain is unwelcoming – instead, this country is vibrant, warm, and full of friendly residents. Yet, once you acquire a visa at https://www.migrun.tech/spain/services-in-spain/virtual-assistance-for-spain, it is best to research the local culture and traditions.

Below, you will find out what the usual day looks like there, how Spanish people communicate, and so much more.

Language Barrier and Communication

The main language in Spain is Spanish, also called Castillian locally. Other official languages used across Spain are:

• Galician;
• Basque;
• Catalan;
• Valencian.

As an immigrant, you will be a lot more welcome if you learn at least Spanish before moving from abroad. You will find that even documents and official appointments for immigrants are carried out in Spanish, but services like Migrun can assist you throughout the process.

Otherwise, people in Spain are friendly and direct. They don’t say “please” or “thank you” that much and drop formalities very fast, but that doesn’t mean they don’t respect you or other people they talk to. They often share their opinions without asking permission and talk loudly. PDA is very common with couples on the street and in social situations.

Work Ethics

All immigrants are curious about how Spaniards prefer to work. The working hours will depend on your employer and position. A Spanish workday starts around 9 am and ends from 5 to 8 pm. You should avoid being late or speaking to those in higher positions without honorifics.

The work hierarchy is very important to Spanish people. You will most likely be invited to informal lunches with coworkers – personal friendships are prioritized over business relationships. 

Daily Routine

Once you fully immigrate, you will see that the Spanish way of living might be drastically different from the one you’re used to. For example, the daily routine is usually laid back. It starts with a strong coffee and a small breakfast, followed by another snack at about 10:30 am – an almuenzo. In bigger cities such as Barcelona, shops open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m.

In smaller, calmer regions, siesta is still a popular tradition. That means most stores close at 1:30 pm for lunch and open around 5 pm. Bigger cities are abandoning the culture of siesta, but the break still lasts up to two hours.

By 8 pm, most businesses finish their workday, and all workers come out for an evening stroll. Spanish people prefer to go to bed after midnight, so dinner is later than most immigrants prefer – around 10 pm.

On the weekend, you will see a lot more crowds, as everyone prefers spending time outside when it’s warm enough. Bars and nightclubs will be full of people, so don’t be surprised to hear a lot of loud music and singing.

Feel Comfortable in Spain

Before you immigrate, it is essential to learn about your new country of residence. Now you know how the Spanish communicate, what to expect from locals at work, and how to spend your day according to the Spanish culture.