Moving to the Costa del Sol from the UK: a post-Brexit guide for British citizens
Brexit changed the rules for Britons who dream of living in Spain. This guide explains step by step what you need to legally move to the Costa del Sol in 2026.
The Costa del Sol has been the favourite destination for decades for Britons seeking sunshine, quality of life and a more reasonable cost of living. Towns like Marbella, Fuengirola, Benalmadena and Mijas have established British communities with English-language services and infrastructure designed for expats.
However, since 1 January 2021, British citizens are no longer EU citizens. This means moving to Spain now requires visas, residence permits and planning that was not previously necessary. The good news: it is still perfectly possible, you just need to know the process.
The post-Brexit legal situation
As a third-country citizen, you now need: a visa for stays over 90 days, a residence permit, proof of sufficient financial means, and private health insurance (in most cases).
What has NOT changed: you can visit Spain for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, buy property without restrictions, and open bank accounts with an NIE.
Visa and residence options for Britons
1. Non-lucrative visa (the most common)
The preferred option for retirees and people with passive income. Allows you to live in Spain without working. Requirements: approx. 2,400 EUR/month income, comprehensive health insurance, clean criminal record, commitment not to work.
2. Employment visa
If you have a job offer from a Spanish company, they can process your work permit.
3. Entrepreneur or self-employed visa
For those wanting to establish a business or work as self-employed in Spain.
4. Golden Visa (investor visa)
If you invest at least 500,000 EUR in Spanish real estate, you can access an investor residence visa. It allows working and has simpler renewals. Includes spouse and children, no minimum stay requirement.
NIE and TIE: essential documents
The NIE is your tax number in Spain, needed for almost everything. The TIE is your physical residence card, similar to a national ID, which you must apply for within 30 days of arriving with your visa.
Buying property as a British citizen post-Brexit
Good news: Brexit does not affect your right to buy property in Spain. You can purchase any type of property without restrictions, just as before. Financing is available at 60-70% of appraised value for non-residents.
Taxation: what taxes you will pay
Purchase taxes are the same as for any buyer (7% ITP for resale, 10% VAT + 1.2% AJD for new build). As a tax resident (183+ days/year in Spain), you pay IRPF on worldwide income. As a non-resident, rental income is taxed at 24% on gross (UK is no longer EU).
Healthcare: your options
Pensioners with a state pension can request the S1 form from the NHS for public healthcare in Spain. Otherwise, private health insurance is needed (80-200 EUR/month).
Other important formalities
Driving licence exchange (direct swap, no exam, within 6 months), municipal registration (empadronamiento), pet import requirements, and professional qualification recognition if needed.
British communities on the Costa del Sol
Well-established British communities exist with social clubs, Anglican churches, British supermarkets, English-speaking doctors, and local English-language media. Main areas: Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Mijas Costa, Calahonda, La Cala de Mijas.
Brexit has complicated the process, but thousands of Britons continue to move to the Costa del Sol every year. With planning and proper advice, your dream of living in Spain is still perfectly achievable.
Frequently asked questions about moving to Spain from the UK
Do I need a visa to live in Spain after Brexit?
Yes, since 1 January 2021, British citizens need a visa for stays over 90 days in Spain. The most common options are the non-lucrative visa (for retirees or those with passive income), the work visa or the Golden Visa (minimum 500,000 EUR investment in property).
Can I buy property in Spain as a British citizen?
Yes, Brexit does not affect the right to buy property in Spain. Any British citizen can purchase property without restrictions. You just need to obtain an NIE. Spanish banks also continue to grant mortgages to non-residents, with financing up to 60-70%.
How much do I need to earn for the non-lucrative visa?
The main applicant needs to demonstrate income of approximately 2,400 EUR/month (four times the IPREM). Each additional family member requires around 600 EUR/month more. You will also need comprehensive private health insurance and a criminal record certificate.
Can I use my British driving licence in Spain?
As a tourist (stay under 90 days), yes. But if you become a resident, you have 6 months to exchange it for a Spanish licence. The exchange is direct, without an exam, thanks to the UK-Spain bilateral agreement.
Am I entitled to Spanish public healthcare?
It depends on your situation. Pensioners with a British state pension can request the S1 form from the NHS to access Spanish public healthcare. If you don't qualify for S1, you will need private health insurance (80-200 EUR/month). This insurance is also a mandatory requirement for the non-lucrative visa.
Need help moving?
At SolProp we help dozens of British families every year to find their home on the Costa del Sol. Our team speaks English and works with lawyers, tax advisors and administrators specialised in British expats post-Brexit.