Moving from the UK to Spain – Entry Requirements & What You Need to Know

Since Brexit, UK citizens can still move to Spain, but the process now includes additional requirements for stays longer than 90 days.

If you are planning to buy property or relocate to Spain—especially regions like Murcia and Costa Cálida—it’s important to understand the current entry and residency rules.

✈️ 1. Short Stays (Up to 90 Days)

UK citizens can still visit Spain without a visa for:

Up to 90 days in any 180-day period

Tourism, property viewing trips, and short stays

Requirements:

Valid UK passport (issued within the last 10 years)

At least 3 months validity beyond planned departure

Proof of return travel (may be requested)

Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds (occasionally checked)

👉 This is ideal for viewing property for sale in Spain before purchasing.

🏡 2. Longer Stays (Over 90 Days)

If you plan to live in Spain, you must apply for residency or a visa.

Common options include:

📍 Non-Lucrative Visa (Most Popular for Retirees)

For those not working in Spain

Requires proof of income/savings

Private health insurance required

Allows residency in Spain

📍 Self-Employed / Digital Nomad Visa

For remote workers or freelancers

Requires proof of income and work activity

Increasingly popular with younger buyers

🧾 3. NIE Number (Essential for Property Buyers)

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is required for:

Buying property in Spain

Opening a bank account

Paying taxes and utilities

You can apply:

In Spain

At a Spanish consulate in the UK

Through a legal representative

👉 Without an NIE, you cannot complete a property purchase.

🏦 4. Financial Requirements

For residency visas, you may need:

Proof of sufficient income or savings

Private health insurance (no public healthcare access initially)

Spanish bank account

🏥 5. Healthcare in Spain

UK citizens moving to Spain will need:

Private health insurance initially (for visa approval)

Later access to public healthcare depending on residency status

Spain offers a high-quality healthcare system, especially in regions like Murcia.

🏠 6. Buying Property in Spain as a UK Citizen

There are no restrictions on UK citizens buying property in Spain.

However, you will need:

NIE number

Spanish bank account

Legal representation (strongly recommended)

Buying property is often the first step towards relocating to Spain permanently.

🌞 Why UK Buyers Choose Murcia & Costa Cálida

Murcia is especially popular with UK buyers because:

Affordable property prices

Over 300 days of sunshine

Easy access to UK flights (Alicante & Murcia airports)

Large established expat communities

Low cost of living compared to the UK

Popular areas include:

Camposol

Mazarrón

Mazarrón Country Club

Coastal areas near Puerto de Mazarrón

📌 Summary – Key Requirements

To move from the UK to Spain you typically need:

Valid passport

NIE number

Proof of financial means (for residency)

Health insurance (for long stays)

Visa (if staying over 90 days long-term)

👉 Thinking of Moving to Spain?

If you are planning to relocate or buy property in Spain, Villaquest can help you find the right home in Murcia and Costa Cálida and guide you through the buying process step by step.