Loading Page...

Can Brits still move to Benidorm?

UK citizens can continue living in Spain after Brexit as agreed upon in the European Union Withdrawal Act. The Withdrawal ACT (WA) included a transition period during which UK citizens who've moved to Spain prior to January 1st, 2021 could register as a resident to get a special residence permit.



Since the completion of Brexit, the process for British citizens to move to Benidorm (or anywhere in Spain) has become more complex, but it is still very much possible. You can no longer simply "move" under EU freedom of movement; instead, you must apply for a visa as a third-country national. For most retirees, the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is the primary path, which requires proof of significant savings or a passive income (pension) of roughly €28,000 per year, plus private health insurance. For those wanting to work, the Digital Nomad Visa (introduced in 2023) is a popular option in 2026 for those with remote jobs. You can also qualify for residency through the "Golden Visa" program by investing €500,000 in real estate, though there are frequent political debates in Spain about phasing this out. Once you have a visa, you must apply for a TIE (residency card). While the paperwork is more daunting and the financial requirements are higher than they were pre-2021, the vibrant British community in Benidorm remains strong, and the dream of a life in the sun is still achievable for those who can navigate the administrative hurdles and meet the income thresholds.

People Also Ask

Can British Citizens Stay in Spain for Longer Than 90 Days? British citizens can stay without a residence permit in Spain only for 90 days within a 180-day period. After that, they must register for a new residence permit in Spain if they want to stay longer.

MORE DETAILS

There are opportunities for UK graduates in areas such as banking, construction and IT, as well as teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). Career opportunities are growing in areas such as finance and consulting, but there is high unemployment among young people.

MORE DETAILS

If you are a non-EEA national (including British) and wish to stay in Spain for longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. You should apply for the visa that suits your purpose from a Spanish Consulate in your home country.

MORE DETAILS

Throughout the past two decades, Spaniards' attitudes toward immigration have been predominantly welcoming, especially in comparison to growing hostility in many other countries. Spain's economic downturn did not trigger increased animosity towards the foreign-born.

MORE DETAILS

British citizens / UK nationals can obtain a Spanish residency visa under the Spain's Investment Residency Permit Program. More commonly known as the 'Golden Visa', it allows investors and their families who meet the requirements, to secure Spanish residency by investing in Spain.

MORE DETAILS