It’s inevitable that after Brexit, there’s likely to be confusion about being able to move to Spain. This article will summarise key information that you’ll need if you’re planning on making the move.
Post-Brexit changes prior to moving
Whilst before, when UK residents were in the EU, they could simply obtain an EU registration certificate, there’s now a few more procedures to go through. If you’re wanting to stay in Spain for longer than three months, you’ll need to apply for a regular residence permit. It means that there are some more procedures to go through before you can officially move to Spain, but ultimately it is still possible despite Brexit’s changes.
The correct Visa must be applied for from the UK, either at the London, Manchester or Edinburgh Spanish consulates. Once in Spain, you’ll need to apply for your residence document. Children will also require their own residence document. Other close family members, which includes spouses, dependent parents and grandparents, and dependent children and grandchildren, can apply online to live in Spain before you leave. Or, they can apply within three months once you’ve arrived in Spain.
Process for retirees
There’s a slightly different process for those wanting to retire in Spain as well. A different visa will need to be applied for, since retirees are not moving to Spain to perform an economic activity. This is the ‘non-lucrative’ visa, also known as the non-profit visa or retirement visa. This is a residence permit granted for one year, that can be renewed every year.
Retirees are still able to claim their UK State Pension if they’re moving to Spain. If you’ve worked in other EU countries, you can claim your pension from them as well.
Healthcare
Despite Brexit, UK nationals can still access healthcare in Spain. Once you’re registered for healthcare, access to most of the basic healthcare provisions are free, with only some other treatments and procedures requiring payment. New residents can register for Spanish health care by being employed or self-employed in Spain and make contributions to social security, register an S1 form from the UK, or by paying directly into the public insurance scheme.
Proof of healthcare cover must be shown before you can register as a resident and when you apply for a visa, if you’re going to Spain to live permanently and/or work. If you’re going to work in Spain, you are still entitled to healthcare in the same way as Spanish residents. Your dependents are also entitled to healthcare, but they must register separately.
Tax and National Insurance
There is a taxation agreement in place with Spain after Brexit that means you do not have to pay tax on the same income in both countries. The best source of information about tax is by consulting with professional advisers, so be sure to do this when preparing for the move.
Once you’re officially a Spanish resident, you’ll need to declare your income to the Spanish authorities. This applies to everyone, even if you’re moving from the UK.
If you’re moving over to Spain to work, you and your employer (even if they’re based in the UK), may need to make social security contributions to Spain’s national insurance scheme. The scheme gives residents access to amenities such as healthcare.
Driving in Spain
Brexit has changed how UK driving licences can be used in EU countries. Your UK driving licence will need to be exchanged for a local one as soon as possible. Currently, there are still negotiations between the UK and Spain regarding a long-term agreement on how Spanish licences can be obtained by UK nationals without having to do another practical test. However, if you’re wanting to drive immediately and especially if you need to do so for work, you should follow the Spanish government’s procedure for non-EU nationals obtaining a Spanish driving licence. You’ll have to take a theory test and practical test to do this.
Buying property
If you’re wanting to buy your own property when moving to Spain, this is still possible. Mortgages can still be obtained, just be sure to research into the different services and banks available to ensure you’re getting the best deal. It’s also worth getting advice from an independent Spanish land law lawyer before buying property, as recommended by the government.
Once you’re registered as a Spanish resident, you’ll be given an NIE, a foreign identification number which allows you to open a bank account and buy property. This is fundamental when undertaking the purchase of property. See the government website for more official documents that you’ll need before buying property. Once the purchase is complete, you’ll be able to register on the Land Registry. This is vital for protecting your rights as the owner as the property.
Reasons for moving
Although Brexit has changed the moving process slightly, it is still possible. There are numerous reasons why it’s worth the extra few steps it takes to move if you’re seriously considering it. Not least is the climate, which is notably warmer than the UK! Even in the North, the summer months are much warmer and drier than the UK. The country also benefits from more sunshine throughout the year, it lasting longer in the autumn and winter months. Whilst the North is rainier in the winter, the further south you travel the more Mediterranean the climate becomes. The sunny weather can be easily enjoyed from one of the many beaches along the coast. The east and south east benefits from the temperate Mediterranean sea, which stays warmer for longer in the summer and early autumn.
There’s also so much culture to discover in Spain. Throughout the country there’s sites of historical interest, with local museums to discover more. There’s also incredible artwork for visitors to see historic artwork throughout Spain’s history, as well as more contemporary pieces. In the bigger cities, there are incredible shows to watch, each being crafted with so much detail and being able to truly transport the audience into a new world. From bustling cities with independent vendors to remote villages surrounded by countryside, there’s something that everyone will love.
UK residents will be pleased to know that even with Brexit, they can still move to Spain. If you’re seriously considering it, the UK and Spanish governments’ websites are the best place to go for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
