Spain Residency for UK Citizens After Brexit
Complete guide for British expats — your options for living in Spain post-Brexit. We manage the process from London to Malaga.
Your 4 Pathways to Spanish Residency
Brexit changed everything. But there's still a clear path.
Digital Nomad Visa
€2,849/month
Remote workers & freelancers
Non-Lucrative Visa
€2,400/month
Retirees & passive income earners
Entrepreneur Visa
Business plan based
Business owners with ENISA-approved plan
Highly Qualified Professional
Market salary €40k+
Corporate transferees & specialists
| Visa Type | Monthly Income Required | Work Allowed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Nomad Visa | €2,849/month | Remote work for non-Spanish companies | Remote workers & freelancers |
| Non-Lucrative Visa | €2,400/month | No work allowed | Retirees & passive income earners |
| Entrepreneur Visa | Business plan based | Run your own innovative startup | Business owners with ENISA-approved plan |
| Highly Qualified Professional | Market salary €40k+ | Employment at Spanish company | Corporate transferees & specialists |
The Brexit Reality
Why UK Citizens Need a Visa Now
Since Brexit, UK citizens lost automatic EU residency rights. Here's what you need to know:
- 90-day rule: Tourist visa only allows 90 days per 180-day period
- Legal residency: Requires a proper visa for stays over 90 days
- Healthcare: EHIC cards no longer valid — residency ensures healthcare access
- Banking: Spanish banks increasingly require EU residency for accounts
- Your rights: Property ownership doesn't grant residency rights
UK-Specific Advantages
- UK state pension qualifies as income
- Private pension schemes accepted
- Property in UK can generate rental income for requirements
- No need to work — enjoy retirement in the sun
Digital Nomad Visa — Perfect for Remote Workers
For UK citizens working remotely for UK companies or clients.
Requirements:
- Income: €2,849/month minimum
- Employment: 3+ months with current employer OR established freelance
- Company: Your UK employer/clients must exist 1+ year
- Education: University degree OR 3 years relevant experience
- Health insurance: Full coverage Spanish policy
Tax benefit: Beckham Law
24% flat rate on income up to €600,000 for 6 years.
Non-Lucrative Visa — For Retirees & Passive Income
For UK citizens with pension, investments, or rental income.
Requirements:
- Income: €2,400/month minimum
- Additional per family member: €600/month
- Allowed income: UK pension, dividends, rental income
- NOT allowed: Any employment or freelance work in Spain
Entrepreneur Visa — For Business Builders
For UK citizens starting an innovative business in Spain.
Requirements:
- Business focus: Innovative, technology-driven
- Approval: ENISA must approve your business plan
- Criteria: Job creation, socio-economic impact
Highly Qualified Professional — For Corporate Moves
For UK citizens transferred to a Spanish company.
Benefits:
- Fastest visa: 10-20 working days
- Full work permit included
- Family can join immediately
- Direct path to permanent residency
How It Works — 4 Simple Steps
The path to your TIE card is simple with professional guidance.
Free Consultation
We assess your situation — income, employment, family — and recommend the best visa.
Document Preparation
UK documents need official translations. We guide you through obtaining apostilles and certified translations.
Consulate Submission
Apply at the Spanish consulate covering your UK area (London, Manchester, Edinburgh).
Move to Spain
Upon approval, we help you collect your visa, open Spanish bank accounts, register at the town hall (padrón), and get your TIE residence card.
UK-Specific Document Checklist
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid beyond planned stay |
| UK police clearance | Apostille required |
| UK birth/marriage certificates | Official translation + apostille |
| UK employment contract | For Digital Nomad |
| UK pension statements | For Non-Lucrative |
| Proof of UK address | Utility bills, bank statements |
UK Expat FAQs
Yes. UK state pension and private pensions are accepted as income sources.
Yes. You can work for UK employers or clients. Up to 20% of income may come from Spanish sources.
You'll transition to Spain's public healthcare system (requiring empadronamiento and SIP card). Many residents also maintain private UK health insurance.
Yes, but much easier once you have residency. We help with bank account opening after visa approval.
We help compile 3-6 months of UK bank statements, client invoices, and HMRC self-assessment records.
The Highly Qualified Professional Visa — your Spanish employer handles the application through the UGE fast-track.
Yes. All visa types allow family reunification. Additional income requirements apply.
Ready to Make Spain Your Post-Brexit Home?
We've helped 1,200+ British citizens make Spain their home. Book your free consultation today.
