4 Ways to Move to Spain from the UK After Brexit
Moving to Spain from the UK post-Brexit is still very achievable, but it does require a bit more paperwork and planning. Whether you want to enjoy Andalusian beaches, Catalan cities, or quiet countryside life, here’s a breakdown of four realistic ways to move to Spain, including the requirements for each option.
1. Pareja de Hecho (Registered Partnership)
A pareja de hecho is perfect if you have a Spanish or EU partner. It’s legally recognized like marriage and allows you to apply for residency.
Requirements:
Proof of relationship: You’ll need documents such as joint bank accounts, rental agreements, or declarations of cohabitation.
Identity documents: Passports or ID cards for both partners.
No close family ties that conflict: You must not be closely related (like siblings or parent/child).
Registration in Spain: You need to register your partnership at the local civil registry (Registro de Parejas de Hecho).
NIE application: Once registered, you can apply for a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE), which is required for renting, opening a bank account, and working.
Key point: This route is only for couples, and you must maintain the relationship to keep residency rights.
2. Digital Nomad Visa
Spain’s new digital nomad visa is aimed at remote workers who want to live in Spain while working for a foreign employer or running their own business.
Requirements:
Employment: You must work for a company outside Spain or run your own business providing services to non-Spanish clients.
Minimum income: Proof of earning at least around €2,000–€2,500 per month (this may vary slightly depending on region).
Health insurance: Private Spanish health insurance is required.
No criminal record: You must provide a clean police record from your current country of residence.
Valid passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Duration: Typically 1–2 years initially, renewable.
Why it’s great: You can work remotely legally and enjoy all the benefits of living in Spain.
3. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for people who want to live in Spain without working locally—ideal for retirees or those with passive income.
Requirements:
Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements or income proof showing you can support yourself (generally around €27,000–€30,000 per year for an individual).
Private health insurance: Must cover you in Spain.
No criminal record: Police clearance certificate required.
Valid passport: Usually for at least one year.
Proof of accommodation: Rental contract or property deed in Spain.
Duration: Initial 1-year visa, renewable in 2-year increments if requirements are maintained.
Tip: This visa does not allow you to work in Spain, but you can invest or manage your own international business.
4. Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is an investment-based residency program that grants fast-track residency for investors.
Requirements:
Investment options:
Purchase property worth €500,000 or more
Capital investment in a Spanish company or government bonds
Business investment creating jobs in Spain
Health insurance: Private health coverage in Spain.
Valid passport: Must be valid for the duration of your residency.
Financial proof: Show you can sustain yourself and your family.
Duration: Residency granted for 1 year initially, renewable every 2 years, and can lead to permanent residency after 5 years.
Bonus: Family members (spouse, children) can also be included.
Tips for a Smooth Move
Start applications early: Some visas take weeks or even months to process.
Hire a professional: A Spanish lawyer or relocation specialist can make a huge difference.
Prepare documentation: Health insurance, bank statements, contracts, criminal certificates, and proof of income are essential.
Plan finances: Cost of living varies depending on region—Madrid and Barcelona are pricier than smaller towns.
Moving to Spain post-Brexit is still very doable if you know the right path. Whether it’s through a pareja de hecho, a digital nomad visa, the Non-Lucrative Visa, or the Golden Visa, each route has specific requirements—but with preparation, your dream of living in Spain can become a reality.