The Canary Islands have so much to offer. A mild climate throughout the year, a winter that is especially welcoming to the retired, who often see the islands as the place to live out the rest of their lives in comfort, without the need to worry about massive heating bills. Others just fall in love with the islands after holidaying here and decide to return permanently. Whatever the reason there is something which makes the Canaries irresistible. It's amazing how many others, especially the young, arrive on the islands and decide not to leave, making their living as best they can. You may see them PR 'ing Club Holidays and such at various locations throughout the islands.

There are various points to consider when making the decision to stay. The most important is to realise that a permanent home is very different from a holiday home.

Deciding upon location, whether renting or buying, is a vital consideration and dependent upon several factors; Traveling to work, schools proximity, nearness of shopping, the medical and leisure facilities. However, quite often, many residents make the mistake ‘initially because they forget these items, which in the UK would be top of the list.

Even if your intention is to buy a property, your best bet is to rent for six months or so, to ensure that your decision to move here would be a correct one, and equally important, that your location is the right choice. Residential properties for rent can be found in classified newspaper sections, the local daily's, or through most estate agent (inmobiliaria); The latter can charge up to an extra month’s rent as commission. Shop around for the best deals. I have identified estate agents under that heading within this WEB, please use them beforehand. It's also worth considering the fact that rental fees are somewhat lower in the North of Tenerife than the commercialised holiday south and there are more British Residents Associations up north.

Living Abroad.
If you are going to live abroad for longer than three months you should register your presence with the nearest British Consulate.

You may also qualify as an ‘overseas elector" provided you have been resident in the UK and registered as an elector within the previous 20 years. or are covered by the conditions which apply to people who were too young to be registered. To do so you will need to make an annual declaration, which will allow your name to be included on the electoral register in the constituency where you were registered before you went abroad. You will then be able to vote, by proxy, at any parliamentary or European Parliament elections.

Details on how you can register as an overseas elector are contained in a leaflet called "Keeping your Vote when Living Abroad" which is available from your nearest British Consulate or diplomatic mission when abroad. From the Home Office Public Relations Branch, Queen Anne’s Gate, London SW1H 9AT, or the Scottish Home & Health Department, Room 220, St. Andrews House, Edinburgh EH1 3DEE, when you are in the UK.