Hi there,
I have lived in various EU countries already, and now contemplating the move south. I have tried to inform myself as much as possible, but I still have a bunch of questions that my friend Google doesn't seem to be able to answer.
From what I read on the internet, it seems we would be in a big shit if ever me or hubby would lose a job in Gibraltar. Unemployment benefits are near to nil and if something happens in the first two years we would get nothing. Correct? If so, are there any private insurances that can protect us against loss of income?
We have kids and more in the making. From what I reckon it would be best to live in Gib instead of Spain, as Spanish schools are far below EU average (PISA results) and Sotogrande is too expensive if you have more than 1 kid. Is it eventually possible to rent/buy a studio apartment in order to get the residency, and then still rent a house outside of Gib? Is this considered illegal and are there any checks? What do families in Gib do? Small apartment and weekend house in the country?
What about healthcare? Do you get a rather complete coverage for 'free' (incl. basic dentistry, birth at hospital with epidural, pediatricians, physiotherapy) or should I count on additional insurance?
Are there any child benefits?
Any idea on what the net salary would be for a family with 3 kids and 50K yearly income from 1 salary? I tried the online calculator but it's asking for the amount in benefits and I have no clue what it would be.
What about pension? Do you get a fair pension at the end of the ride, or is a private pension fund needed? Is it something that employers offer?
What about the cost for nurseries and after school care?
Do nurseries and schools offer childcare that correspond to the timing of working parents? In the sense that it's possible to bring your kids to school, go to work and pick them up after work? Are the extra-curricular activities at schools organized in a way to make this possible?
Cheers,
Silvia