Brexit and British Nationals in Spain: What Changed

Before Brexit, British nationals enjoyed freedom of movement as EU citizens. Since 1 January 2021, they are treated as third-country nationals, subject to the same visa requirements as Americans or Australians.

Spain has multiple residency pathways available and British nationals continue to move to the Costa del Sol in significant numbers. The process is more complex but absolutely achievable with the right legal guidance.

British Residents Before 31 Dec 2020: The TIE Card

If you were legally resident in Spain before 31 December 2020, you are protected by the Withdrawal Agreement. You must exchange your green EU registration certificate for a biometric TIE card.

The TIE card confirms your Withdrawal Agreement rights. Without it, you may face difficulties at borders. If you have not yet exchanged your certificate, this should be a priority.

Option 1: Non-Lucrative Visa

The most popular option for retirees and those with passive income. Requires demonstrating sufficient financial means without working in Spain. Requirements in 2026:

  • Minimum income of approximately €2,400/month per person (400% of IPREM), plus ~€600/month per additional family member.
  • Comprehensive private health insurance covering Spain.
  • Clean criminal record (apostilled from the UK).
  • Proof of accommodation in Spain.
  • Medical certificate.

Applied for at the Spanish consulate in the UK. Initial duration: 1 year, renewable. Important: you must live in Spain at least 183 days/year, triggering Spanish tax residency.

Option 2: Golden Visa (abolished in 2025)

Spain abolished the Golden Visa — including the €500,000 property route — on 3 April 2025, so it is no longer available to new applicants. If you already hold one, ask us about your situation; otherwise the non-lucrative and digital nomad visas are the usual alternatives. See our Golden Visa update.

Option 3: Digital Nomad Visa

Introduced in 2023 for remote workers. Available to UK nationals working for foreign companies. Key requirements:

  • Employment or self-employment for a foreign company (min. 3 months' contract or 1 year as freelancer).
  • Minimum monthly income of approximately €2,650/month (200% of IPREM).
  • The company must have been operating for at least 1 year.
  • No more than 20% of income from Spanish clients.

Holders can opt for the Beckham Law, allowing taxation at a flat 24% rate for 5 years — a potentially significant tax saving versus progressive resident rates.

Option 4: Work Visa

If you have a Spanish job offer, work visas are available. Your Spanish employer must first obtain a work permit from Spanish labour authorities. The process takes 3–4 months. Highly qualified professionals can apply under the Ley de Emprendedores for faster processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. British nationals are now subject to the 90/180 rule — maximum 90 days in the Schengen Area in any 180-day period without a visa. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans.
The Spanish consulate typically takes 1–3 months to process. Once approved, you must travel to Spain and obtain your TIE card within 30 days. Total time from application to TIE card: typically 4–6 months.
The UK state pension continues to be paid abroad. However, other UK benefits may be affected, and you should inform the DWP. UK private pensions are generally unaffected but will be taxable in Spain as a tax resident. Take both UK financial and Spanish tax advice before moving.