How to Move to Spain from UK: A Comprehensive 2025 Guide

Need to know how to move to Spain from the UK? Start by obtaining the right visa and NIE number. From learning how to move to Spain from the UK to finding housing, this guide covers all the essential steps you’ll need to make a smooth transition.

Key Takeaways

• UK citizens must understand specific visa requirements and obtain the appropriate visa for long-term residency in Spain post-Brexit.
• Essential administrative steps include applying for an NIE number, registering with the local town hall, and opening a bank account to facilitate daily living.
• Understanding healthcare options, taxation, and education systems is crucial for UK nationals relocating to Spain to ensure compliance and effective integration.

Understanding Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

Post-Brexit, UK nationals face the same visa requirements as other non-EU citizens when moving to Spain. They can still apply for residency, but need a visa tailored to their specific needs, whether for work, study, or retirement.

Spanish visas cater to various purposes, ensuring an option for every situation. While short-term stays up to 90 days don’t require a Spanish visa, longer stays demand a thorough understanding of the different visa categories and their requirements.

Short-Term Stays and ETIAS Waiver

From 2024, the ETIAS waiver allows UK citizens to visit Spain for up to 90 days without a visa, ideal for brief visits or exploration without committing to long-term residency.

Stays shorter than 90 days require no special visas, making short-term visits straightforward.

Long-Term Visas for Residency

UK citizens looking to reside in Spain for an extended period can apply for various long-term visas. Residency applications must be submitted at the Oficina de Extranjeros or electronically, with complete documents including proof of health coverage, identification, and any property transaction details.

Long-term visa permissions can be extended twice, each for two years, if original conditions are met. A residence permit allows UK citizens to work in Spain, and certain visas permit family members to join.

Non-Lucrative Visa for Retirees and Unemployed

The non-lucrative visa is popular for retirees or those not seeking employment. Applicants must prove sufficient capital or passive income to cover living expenses, with a minimum annual income of €27,936.96.

An additional monthly income of €564.90 is required for each dependent, and applicants must demonstrate they can maintain this level for at least one year.

Obtaining Your Spanish NIE Number

The NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is essential for foreigners in Spain. Anyone staying longer than 90 days must apply for an NIE, necessary for legal and administrative activities such as buying property, working, and paying taxes.

It serves as an ID number for foreign nationals, crucial for integrating into Spanish society.

Application Process at Local Immigration Office

To apply for an NIE number, make an appointment at the local immigration office or police station. Applicants must be physically present and ensure all documentation is correctly submitted to avoid delays.

Required Documents for NIE Application

When applying for an NIE number, the following documents are required: a valid passport, proof of residence, and the completed NIE application form.

Ensure that all documents are correctly prepared and submitted to the relevant authorities to avoid any processing delays.

Registering with the Local Town Hall (Padrón)

Registering with the local town hall, or Padrón, confirms residency and grants access to various services. This is necessary for anyone living in Spain for over six months, whether local or expatriate.

Steps to Register on the Padrón Municipal

To register on the Padrón, visit the local town hall with a photo ID, proof of address, and your NIE or TIE number.

Upon successful registration, you will receive a certificate as proof of residency.

Benefits of Being Registered

Registration on the Padrón offers benefits like access to social services and eligibility to vote in local and European elections. It also facilitates smoother interactions with Spanish authorities and access to public services.

Opening a Bank Account in Spain

Opening a bank account in Spain is essential for managing daily expenses, receiving salaries, and handling financial transactions. You will need your NIE number, proof of residence, and a valid identification document.

Choosing the Right Bank

Choosing the right bank is crucial for a smooth financial experience. Popular options among foreigners include BBVA and Banco Santander, which offer international services and support.

A bank that understands expat needs can significantly simplify your banking experience.

Required Documentation for Bank Account

To open a bank account, provide valid identification, proof of residence, and your NIE number.

While some banks may allow opening an account without a local residency ID, having an NIE is highly recommended.

Finding Accommodation in Spain

Finding the right accommodation is crucial when moving to Spain. Whether renting or buying, understanding the local market helps make informed decisions.

Renting a Property

The rental market in Spain varies significantly between urban and rural areas, affecting availability and pricing. Expect to pay around €900 for a one-bedroom apartment in a city and around €1,500 for a three-bedroom apartment.

Buying Property in Spain

Buying Spanish property in Spain is attractive for many, with no restrictions for non-EU residents. Hiring a local solicitor to navigate the legal processes is advisable.

Additional costs like transfer taxes and notary fees can add 10-15% to the purchase price.

Healthcare and Health Insurance

Healthcare in Spain is accessible to UK citizens through social security contributions, ensuring necessary medical care. If not eligible for public healthcare, private health insurance is essential.

Public Healthcare Registration

Eligibility for public healthcare depends on employment status, residency duration, or social security contributions. UK nationals can register if they contribute to social security or have a valid S1 form.

Private Health Insurance Options

Private health insurance in Spain offers comprehensive coverage, often with shorter waiting times for procedures. Insurers provide tailored plans for expatriates, featuring multilingual support and expedited services.

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Working in Spain

UK citizens require a visa or permit to work in Spain if staying longer than 90 days. The application process for a long-term work permit can take several months, so plan accordingly.

Work Permits and Employment Contracts

Self-employed individuals moving to Spain need a work and residency permit from the Spanish embassy in the UK.

The most common form of limited company in Spain is Sociedad limitada, which has additional tax obligations and accounting responsibilities for a Spanish company.

Self-Employment and Freelancing

Self-employment is viable in Spain, with over three million self employed person individuals. A detailed business plan is essential when applying for a work permit.

The permit typically is valid for one year, with renewal options.

Education and Enrolling Children

Education in Spain offers various options for families, including state-funded, state-subsidized private, and fully private schools.

British children do not need written permission to travel from Spain without a parent unless subject to a court order.

Types of Schools Available

Spain has three main types of schools: state schools (colegios públicos), semi-private schools (colegios concertados), and fully private schools (colegios privados).

International schools are popular among expatriates, offering globally recognized qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate.

Enrollment Process

To enroll children in school, parents must register at the local educational authority and present documents such as proof of residency, vaccination records, and previous school reports.

Enrollment deadlines often occur in the spring for the upcoming school year, so plan accordingly.

Taxation and Financial Considerations

Understanding taxation and financial requirements is crucial for UK citizens moving to Spain. The financial requirement for a UK citizen applying for residency is significantly higher than for EU citizens, with a minimum income of around €30,000 per year.

Double Taxation Agreement

The UK-Spain double taxation agreement, effective since June 12, 2014, ensures residents do not pay taxes on the same income in both countries. This treaty applies to various forms of income taxation and aims to resolve tax disputes through a mutual agreement procedure.

By preventing double taxation, the agreement simplifies financial planning for expatriates.

Declaring Income and Assets

Spanish residents must declare their global income, including any foreign earnings. The Modelo 720 requires reporting overseas assets valued over €50,000 annually.

The declaration must be submitted between January and March each year, with significant penalties for non-compliance.

Moving with Pets

Bringing pets to Spain involves specific guidelines. Pets need a valid European Pet Passport, a microchip, and up-to-date rabies vaccinations. Dogs and cats under 15 weeks old are not authorized to enter Spain without rabies vaccination.

Contact your vet for the necessary travel documents to ensure a smooth relocation for your pets.

Pet Passport and Vaccinations

Pet owners must ensure their pets have a valid pet passport and up-to-date vaccinations before traveling to Spain. An updated rabies vaccination is required at least 21 days before arrival, simplifying the travel process within EU countries.

Quarantine and Animal Welfare

Pets do not need to undergo quarantine in Spain if they meet vaccination requirements and have necessary health documents. Ensuring pets meet health requirements promotes their welfare during relocation.

Applying for Permanent Residency and Citizenship

UK citizens living in Spain can apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous legal residency. The TIE card, Foreigner Identity Card, is required for UK citizens, ensuring their legal status.

For those considering a longer commitment, the pathway to Spanish citizenship is available.

Requirements for Permanent Residency

UK nationals must submit specific documents, including proof of residency before January 1, 2021, to apply for permanent residency.

After five years of legal residency, individuals can apply for a spanish residence permit, bypassing the standard visa procedure.

Pathway to Spanish Citizenship

UK citizens can apply for Spanish citizenship after living in Spain for ten years. However, applicants must renounce their British citizenship, except for those of Sephardic Jewish origin. British citizens of Sephardic Jewish origin are exempt from this requirement.

This dual pathway offers flexibility for those seeking deeper integration into Spanish society.

Moving to Spain involves navigating a series of legal and administrative steps, from securing the appropriate visa to registering with local authorities and setting up essential services like banking and healthcare. Understanding the residency requirements, tax implications, and options for education and employment will ensure a smooth transition.

Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or a change of scenery, thorough preparation is key to making Spain your new home.

Embarking on a journey to Spain from the UK is a significant step, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be a rewarding experience. From understanding visa requirements to settling into your new home, every step brings you closer to enjoying the vibrant Spanish lifestyle. Remember to stay informed, follow the necessary procedures, and embrace the adventure. Here’s to new beginnings under the Spanish sun!

Before you take off make sure to check with local government of the travel status.

Frequently Asked Questions