Moving from the UK to Spain: Guide
Moving from the UK to Spain is an big undertaking, whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or a lifestyle change. Moving abroad requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition. This guide covers everything you need to know—from legal requirements to practical tips for settling in. Here’s your step-by-step roadmap for making the move to Spain.
1. Legal Requirements: Visas and Residency
Since Brexit, UK citizens no longer have automatic rights to live and work in Spain. Your first step is securing the appropriate visa and residency status:
- Short-term stays (up to 90 days): No visa is required—just a valid passport. You can stay as a tourist within the 90-day limit per 180-day period.
- Long-term stays (over 90 days): You’ll need a visa. Common options include:
- Non-lucrative visa: Perfect for retirees or those with savings, as it allows you to live in Spain without working locally. You must prove sufficient income (around €2,400/month for a single person, plus extra for dependents).
- Work visa: Requires a job offer from a Spanish employer, who will often assist with the application.
Once in Spain, apply for a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), your residency card, which replaces the old green residency certificate. You’ll also need an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), a foreigner identification number essential for everything from opening a bank account to signing a lease. You can apply for the NIE at a Spanish consulate in the UK or at a local police station in Spain.
Tip: Start the visa process 3-6 months in advance—it involves gathering documents like proof of income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record, and delays are common.
2. Healthcare: Accessing Medical Services
Spain boasts an excellent public healthcare system, ranked among the best in Europe, but you’ll need to register to access it:
- If employed: Your employer will enroll you in the Spanish social security system, granting access to public healthcare.
- If self-employed or not working: You may need to pay into the system (via the convenio especial) or secure private health insurance, a requirement for the non-lucrative visa.
- Temporary coverage: If you’re visiting before your move, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides emergency care, but it’s not valid for residents.
Private insurance is an option for faster specialist access or English-speaking doctors, costing €50-€200/month depending on coverage.
Tip: Bring a supply of any prescription medications and their generic names, as brand names may differ in Spain.
3. Housing: Renting or Buying
Spain’s property market varies widely by region—coastal areas like the Costa del Sol and cities like Barcelona are pricier, while inland towns offer affordability.
- Renting: You’ll need your NIE, proof of income (e.g., payslips or bank statements), and sometimes a Spanish bank account. Initial costs include a deposit (1-2 months’ rent) and agency fees. Leases often start at 11 months but can be extended.
- Buying: Expect additional costs like property transfer tax (6-10%), notary fees, and legal fees. Hire a local lawyer to handle contracts and ensure the property is free of debts, a common issue in Spain.
Tip: Research thoroughly—coastal areas are tourist-heavy but expensive, while rural regions offer peace and lower costs.
4. Banking and Finances
A Spanish bank account is vital for paying bills, receiving salaries, or signing contracts:
- Requirements: NIE, passport, proof of address (e.g., utility bill or rental contract), and sometimes proof of income.
- Popular banks: Banco Santander, BBVA, and CaixaBank offer English services in expat areas.
Taxes
As a Spanish resident (living there over 183 days/year), you’ll pay tax on worldwide income. Rates range from 19% to 47%, depending on income level. Consult a tax advisor familiar with UK-Spain double taxation agreements to minimize liabilities.
Pensions
You can have your UK state pension paid into a Spanish account. Notify the UK’s International Pension Centre before moving. National insurance contributions may affect benefits—check with both countries’ authorities.
Tip: Inform HMRC of your move to update your tax status and avoid unexpected UK tax bills.
5. Language and Integration
While English is common in tourist hubs, learning Spanish is invaluable for daily life and integration:
- Resources: Take classes locally or use apps like Duolingo or Babbel before moving.
- Culture: Spain’s pace is slower—lunch is around 2 PM, dinner after 9 PM. Socializing and family are central to life, with frequent siestas in hotter regions.
Tip: Start with basic phrases (e.g., “¿Cuánto cuesta?” – “How much is it?”) to navigate shops and bureaucracy.
6. Moving Your Belongings
Relocating your possessions requires planning:
- Removal companies: Get quotes from firms like Pickfords or Britannia Movers—costs depend on volume and distance.
- Customs: Post-Brexit, you may face import duties on high-value items (e.g., electronics, furniture). Cars are subject to taxes unless you’ve owned them for over 6 months.
Cars
To bring a UK-registered vehicle, re-register it in Spain within 30 days. This involves:
- A technical inspection (ITV).
- Paying registration tax.
- Obtaining Spanish plates.
Tip: Declutter before shipping—Spanish homes may be smaller, and costs add up quickly.
7. Pets: Bringing Your Furry Friends
Spain welcomes pets, but paperwork is strict:
- Requirements: A pet passport or EU health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel).
- Travel: Check airline policies—pets may fly in-cabin or cargo, depending on size.
Tip: Book early—pet spaces on flights are limited.
8. Utilities and Services
Setting up utilities is simple but may require basic Spanish:
- Electricity, water, gas: Provide your NIE and proof of address. Providers like Iberdrola or Endesa often have English helplines.
- Internet: Good coverage exists, though rural speeds may lag. Providers like Movistar and Vodafone compete on price.
Tip: If renting, confirm which utilities are included to avoid surprises.
9. Driving in Spain
Your UK driving license is valid temporarily:
- Short-term: Use it for up to 6 months after becoming a resident.
- Long-term: Exchange it for a Spanish license within this period—no test is required if done promptly, though rules can change.
Tip: Carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a backup during the transition.
10. Education: Schools for Children
Spain offers diverse schooling options:
- Public schools: Free, taught in Spanish (or regional languages like Catalan). Places may be limited in expat areas.
- International schools: Teach in English or bilingually, costing €5,000-€20,000/year.
Tip: Apply early—popular schools have waiting lists.
11. Practical Tips for Settling In
- Update UK authorities: Notify HMRC, your bank, and the DVLA of your move.
- UK finances: Keep a UK account for lingering commitments, but watch for international fees.
- Expat communities: Join groups on Facebook or local meetups for support from fellow Brits.
Tip: Explore your new region—Spain’s diversity in climate and culture (e.g., sunny Andalusia vs. green Galicia) is vast.
Final Thoughts
Moving from the UK to Spain is a rewarding journey with the right preparation. Start early—visas and housing take time—and seek professional advice for taxes or legal steps. Embrace the language and culture, and you’ll soon feel at home. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)