Interested in moving to Spain from the UK?
Brexit made things trickier, not impossible. Thousands of Brits are still making the move every year, sorting out visas, dodging red tape, and setting up a new life under the Spanish sun.
You can too. Here’s how.
How Brexit changed moving to Spain
Spain has always been a British expat magnet. Sun, cheap living, no visa headaches—what’s not to love?
Then Brexit happened.
Before 2021, moving to Spain was a breeze. No paperwork nightmares, no visa applications, no proving you had thousands in the bank. You just packed up and went.
Now? Different story. Brexit has changed the legal and bureaucratic requirements for British nationals wanting to live in Spain.
Brits are third-country nationals—meaning:
- You need a visa if you’re staying over 90 days in any 180-day period.
- You must prove financial stability before you even set foot in Spain.
- You’ll have to secure private healthcare—no more easy NHS access.
- If you’re looking for a job? You’ll need sponsorship first.
Sounds like a headache. But it’s doable.
Here’s what you need to know.
Visa & residency rules for British expats (2024-2025)
🇬🇧 How it used to be
Before Brexit, moving to Spain was simple. No visas, no restrictions—just show up, register for residency, and enjoy the Mediterranean life.
Now? Not so much.
🚫 How it works now
Want to stay longer than 90 days? You’ll need a visa. Want to work? You need an employer to sponsor you.
Your options:
| Visa Type | Who It’s For | Key Requirements | Processing Time |
| Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) | Retirees, Passive Income Earners | €28,800/year in savings or pension | 3-4 months |
| Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) | Remote Workers, Freelancers | €2,520+/month from non-Spanish clients | 2-3 months |
| Golden Visa | Investors & High-Net-Worth Individuals | €500,000+ property investment | 2-4 months |
| Work Visa | UK Citizens Employed in Spain | Spanish employer sponsorship required | 2-5 months |
If you’re retiring or living off savings, the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is your best bet—but you can’t work in Spain.
If you’re a remote worker, the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is a game-changer. €2,520/month from non-Spanish clients gets you in.
Want to fast-track the process? Drop €500,000 on property, and you get the Golden Visa. But heads up—it’s being scrapped in April 2025.
Looking for a job? The Work Visa requires a job offer first, and not every industry is open to non-EU workers. Healthcare, education, and IT? Better chances. Retail or hospitality? Forget it.
The financial reality of moving to Spain
Spain is cheaper than the UK. No debate.
But Brexit added costs—higher visa fees, mandatory private healthcare, and currency fluctuations can throw off your budget.
💰 Cost of living: UK vs. Spain (2024)
| Expense | London (£) | Madrid (€) | Alicante (€) |
| Rent (1-bed city centre) | £2,100 | €1,250 | €750 |
| Groceries (monthly per person) | £220 | €180 | €150 |
| Healthcare Insurance (private) | £150 | €100 | €85 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) | £200 | €140 | €120 |
| Public Transport (monthly pass) | £150 | €54 | €40 |
Renting in Madrid costs 40% less than London.
Go smaller—Alicante, Valencia, Granada—and you’re paying almost 70% less.
Groceries, healthcare, transport? All cheaper.
But keep in mind:
- Private health insurance is mandatory. No NHS here.
- Exchange rates can mess with your budget. Some expats get caught out.
- Spain loves bureaucracy. Expect hidden costs (random admin fees, notary costs, paperwork delays).
The verdict: Is Spain still worth it after Brexit?
Short answer? Yes.
Long answer? It depends on how much patience you have for red tape.
Moving is harder now. More paperwork, more requirements, more planning. But the trade-off?
- A better quality of life for less money.
- 300+ days of sunshine.
- Cheaper rent, food, and daily costs.
- A work-life balance the UK can’t compete with.
So if Spain is calling you? Make a plan, get your visa sorted, and go for it.
🌟 Already living in Spain? Thinking about moving? Drop your thoughts below! 👇
