Can A British Citizen Live In Spain

Living in Spain as a British Citizen

Spain, with its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, has always been an attractive destination for people looking to start a new chapter in their lives. If you are a British citizen considering a move to Spain, you may have questions about the process and what to expect. In this blog post, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about living in Spain as a British citizen.

Can a British Citizen Live in Spain?

Yes, as a British citizen, you have the right to live and work in Spain. This is made possible through the freedom of movement within the European Union (EU). However, with the UK's exit from the EU (commonly known as Brexit), there have been changes to the process that you need to be aware of.

Residency Requirements

Previously, British citizens were able to move to Spain and establish residency without any specific requirements. However, post-Brexit, if you wish to reside in Spain for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residency permit.

There are two main types of residency permits you can obtain:

  1. Temporary Residency: This permit is suitable if you plan to live in Spain for more than 90 days but less than five years. It requires you to prove that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself and have access to healthcare.
  2. Permanent Residency: This permit is applicable if you plan to reside in Spain for more than five years. To obtain permanent residency, you will need to demonstrate a higher level of integration into Spanish society, including language proficiency and passing a cultural exam.

Healthcare and Social Security

Once you obtain residency in Spain, you will have access to the country's public healthcare system. To do so, you will need to register with the Spanish social security system and obtain a social security number. It is also advisable to have private health insurance to cover any gaps in the public healthcare system.

Working in Spain as a British Citizen

Before Brexit, British citizens had the right to work in Spain without any additional permits or visas. However, now, you may need to obtain a work permit or visa depending on your employment situation.

If you are employed by a Spanish company or have a job offer, your employer will need to sponsor your work permit. If you are self-employed, you will need to apply for the relevant permits and register with the Spanish tax authorities.

Education for British Citizens

If you have children and plan to move to Spain, you may be concerned about their education. Spain offers both public and private schools, and as a British citizen, you have the option of enrolling your children in either the Spanish education system or an international school that follows the UK curriculum.

FAQ

Q: Can I move to Spain without a job?

A: Yes, you can move to Spain without a job. However, it is advisable to have sufficient financial means to support yourself until you find employment or to cover your daily expenses if you plan to be self-employed.

Q: Do I need to learn Spanish to live in Spain?

A: While it is not a legal requirement to learn Spanish, it is highly recommended. Knowing the local language will greatly enhance your experience and integration into Spanish society.

Q: Will my UK qualifications be recognized in Spain?

A: Spain follows its own system of qualifications recognition. Some UK qualifications may be automatically recognized, while others may require additional steps. It is best to contact the relevant Spanish authorities for guidance.

Living in Spain as a British citizen opens up a world of opportunities and experiences. By following the necessary procedures and preparing in advance, your transition can be smooth and enjoyable. Whether you are retired, looking for work, or seeking a change of scenery, Spain offers a wonderful place to call home.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

Search Posts

Latest posts

Popular posts