About Us
Our Family's Journey from North Carolina to Madrid
We did It So You Don't Have To Struggle the Same Way
We're a family of four who traded comfort for a restart- selling our home in North Carolina, packing everything we owned into a single storage unit, and bringing six oversized suitcases across the Atlantic. Our first 30 days were spent in an Airbnb in the center of Madrid, living among memories of home. Between the jet lag, the constant hum of the city, and the new rhythm of life, everything felt exciting - and overwhelming - all at once.
The Reality Behind the Dream
We knew moving abroad wouldn't be easy, but no amount of YouTube videos or "expat blogs" could have prepared us for the paperwork, the appointments, or the six-hour time difference that made every day feel like a small victory.
We quickly learned that Spain moves at its own pace - and so do its government offices. Some days were spent waiting in lines for documents we didn't know we needed, or coming to terms with appointment cancellations for some given reason. Others were spent trying to reach our immigration lawyer and, painfully, acknowledging that their work ethic wasn't up to par.
Simple things like buying groceries or finding familiar foods became little adventures. Noise levels in our neighborhood surprised us - evenings were louder, laughter carried through the streets, and somehow, the energy felt alive. But then, there were moments that reminded us why we came: long walks through Retiro Park, local cafes that remembered our names, and neighbors who smiled even when we couldn't find the right words.
The School Search, the Apartment Hunt, & Endless Paperwork
Finding the right school for our girls was another journey of its own - all the schools were full, registration was closed for 2 months, waiting lists, uniforms, books, more paperwork, and a language barrier. At the same time, we searched for a neighborhood that would be safe, welcoming, and within walking distance to good schools.
That search led us through countless listings, agents, and Apps with no luck. When we finally found the right apartment - bright, walkable, and near our daughters' school - we felt like we'd won the lottery. But even then, more paperwork waited. Always more paperwork, folks.
The Emotional Side - What You Don't See on Instagram
We missed family. We missed familiarity. There were days when homesickness hit harder than expected - especially while waiting for Spain's government to approve our Digital Nomad visas. While in limbo for 8 months and hearing "No Pasa Nada" from our immigration lawyer on multiple calls. Through the uncertainty came growth. We took weekend trips around Spain, learned to slow down, to appreciate the small victories - like navigating the metro, buying fruits at the local market in Spanish, or just hearing our daughters laugh at school in another language. It was a transformation, not just a move.
Advice for Couples - Meeting in the Middle Before Moving Abroad
Moving abroad isn’t just about logistics – it’s about emotions, timing, and trust.
For one partner, the idea of relocating might feel like an exciting new chapter. For the other, it can feel like stepping into the unknown. Both views are real, and both deserve space.
At It’s Serg Approved, we’ve learned that the best way to find clarity together is to test life abroad before committing long-term. A 90 -day stay in Madrid gives couples the chance to experience everyday life – shopping for groceries, exploring neighborhoods, finding schools, and feeling out the rhythm of the city – without the stress of permanent decisions.
Talk openly about what excites you and what scares you. One partner may worry about family, language, or work stability, while the other focuses on the adventure ahead. Neither is wrong – they’re just seeing the same journey from different sides of the map.Â
The key? Meet in the middle. Test the dream together. A short stay can transform uncertainty into understanding – and turn the move from “your idea” into our plan.Â
Why We Created It's Serg Approved
It's Serg Approved
We built It’s Serg Approved to help Americans like you skip the confusion and the stress we went through. We combined real experience, bilingual support, and local expertise so you can focus on what matters – experiencing life in Spain with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re testing the waters for 90 days or planning your long-term relocation, we’re here to help you do it the Serg Approved Way – honest, prepared, and smart.
What We Believe
We believe that moving to Spain should feel exciting, not overwhelming – and that every step should bring you closer to living your best life abroad.
- Experience Before Commitment
- Preparation Beats Guesswork
- Real People, Real Answers
- Family Over Fear
Our Mission
At It’s Serg Approved, our mission is to empower Americans to experience life in Spain with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind. We put your journey first – guiding you through every step of testing, planning, and relocating abroad, so you can focus on living, not stressing. Through personalized support, bilingual expertise, and real expat insight, we make your transition smooth, informed, and deeply rewarding.Â
How To Meet People in Madrid as an American?
Madrid Skate Life
Moving to Madrid taught me that community doesn't just find you - you create it. When I picked up inline skating as a new hobby, it started with simple laps around a local park. One day, I saw a few skaters and asked if they knew of any groups. That small question opened the door to a whole new circle of friends - and a side of Spain I never expected.
"Find Your Community"
Life in Madrid.
The best way to find your community in Madrid is simply to show up - and say "Que Tal".
Soon, I was skating with locals at events across the country, learning new tricks, exploring new cities, and - maybe most importantly - improving my Spanish one conversation at a time. Our meetups grew beyond the park; we'd hang out at local bars, share food, swap stories about life in both America and Spain. It wasn't easy at first - I had to take life by the horns and just go for it. But that decision turned strangers into friends and Madrid into home.
People move abroad not just for weather or work, but for a deep emotional and rewarding connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How is It’s Serg Approved different from a relocation agency?
We’re not a traditional Spanish relocation agency – we’re an American family who’s already made the move. Instead of selling templates or generic packages, we share real-life “culture shock” experiences and personalized guidance from Americans, so you can settle in confidently to life in Madrid.Â
Q2. Do you work with families or just solo travelers?
We help solo travelers, couples, and families alike. From School enrollment and housing to cultural integration, we tailor each experience based on your lifestyle and goals.
Q3. What if I’m nervous about starting over in another country?
You’re not alone – we’ve been there too. That’s why It’s Serg Approved exists: to help you plan, live, and adapt at your own pace. You don’t have to sell your home or dive in blindly; you can test-drive your new life safely, with guidance every step of the way.Â
Q4. What visas do U.S. citizens need to live in Spain long-term?
Many Americans need a long-term visa to stay beyond 90 days – options include Digital Nomad, non-lucrative, work, or student visas, depending on your goals and financial situation.
Q5. How long does the Spanish visa process take from the United States?
It’s recommended to begin the application 3-6 months before your long-term planned move since gathering documents, appointments, and approval can take weeks or months.