Despite the changes brought on by Brexit, hundreds of Britons have successfully relocated to Spain since 2021, according to local padron registration records. If you're considering a move to Spain, it's important to cut through the myths and get the facts straight. Here, we’ll debunk the six biggest myths about moving to Spain post-Brexit and show you how relocation is still very possible.
1. It’s Impossible to Move to Spain Now - False. While moving to Spain may require more planning and paperwork than before, it is by no means impossible. Post-Brexit, you will need to determine which type of visa is most suitable for you, gather the required documentation, and submit an application. One popular option is the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV, especially for those who don’t intend to work in Spain. Hiring a relocation expert can simplify the process and help you save time by guiding you through the paperwork. A small fee for professional help can make a significant difference in navigating the system.
2. It Requires a Lot of Money - Not necessarily. Although you may have heard about the Golden Visa, which requires the purchase of property, not all visa types come with such financial demands. In fact, the Golden Visa scheme is being phased out. The NLV, for instance, doesn’t require a large investment in property. You’ll need around €1,000 per person for the visa fee and related paperwork. To qualify, you'll also need to prove you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself in Spain, which means showing an income of at least €28,800 per year, or €36,000 for a married couple.
3. You Must Buy an Expensive Property to Get a Visa - False. There’s a common misconception that buying a property is a must for obtaining a Spanish visa, but this is not the case. While the Golden Visa option was popular for those looking to secure residency by purchasing property, it’s far from the only route available. The NLV and the new Digital Nomad Visa do not require property ownership. These alternative visa options make moving to Spain accessible for a wider range of people, regardless of whether they plan to buy or rent a home.
4. Without a Private Pension, You Won’t Meet Financial Requirements - Incorrect. For an NLV, you must prove a yearly income of €28,800 (or €36,000 for couples). However, you are not limited to private pensions to meet this requirement. Relocation experts can guide you on combining different sources of income, such as state pensions, rental income from UK properties, savings, or even the value of a property you own in Spain. There are multiple ways to demonstrate your financial stability, so don’t assume you’ll automatically be disqualified if you don’t have a private pension.
5. It’s Now More Complicated to Buy Property in Spain - Not at all. Brexit hasn’t changed the process of buying property in Spain. You can purchase homes in Spain just as easily as before, and you can buy as many as you wish. Additionally, the taxes and fees associated with property purchases remain the same for both local and international buyers. Unlike in some other countries, Spain doesn’t impose higher taxes on foreigners buying second homes, so you won’t need to worry about paying extra stamp duty (ITP) as a non-resident.
6. You Can’t Access Spanish Healthcare Post-Brexit Wrong. Once you become a Spanish resident, you can access the Spanish healthcare system by paying into the social security system if you’re working. This will give you access to basic healthcare services, although, like in the UK, you may need to contribute to the cost of prescriptions under Spain’s co-payment system. If you’re retired and qualify for the UK state pension, you can apply for an S1 certificate, which entitles you to public healthcare in Spain without having to pay for private insurance. However, younger visa applicants who do not have this certificate will be required to take out private healthcare insurance. Moving to Spain after Brexit is still entirely possible, but the process requires a little more preparation. Understanding the various visa options, financial requirements, and healthcare access will ensure a smooth transition. With the right guidance and planning, you can turn your dream of living in Spain into a reality!