Are you thinking about moving to Spain in 2025?
Whether your goal is to retire under the Mediterranean sun, work remotely from the coast, or start a new life with your family, Spain offers one of the most attractive lifestyle destinations in Europe.
But if you’re wondering where to begin, you’re not alone. The process of relocating to Spain can be complex—especially after Brexit and the recent end of Spain’s Golden Visa for property investment.
This guide covers everything you need to know to make a successful move, including:
Spain continues to be one of the most popular countries for expats relocating from the UK, the US, and across Europe.
With over 300 days of sunshine per year in areas like the Costa del Sol, a lower cost of living, and access to world-class healthcare, it’s easy to see why people are leaving behind grey skies for a life by the sea.
But moving to Spain isn’t just about weather. It’s about quality of life, community, and financial freedom.
Whether you’re interested in retirement in Spain, remote working, or raising your family somewhere safer and sunnier, the Spanish lifestyle offers a unique blend of culture, affordability, and ease.
If you’re relocating from outside the EU, including the UK, you’ll need to apply for a visa to stay longer than 90 days in Spain.
The Non-Lucrative Visa is ideal for retirees or those with passive income.
You’ll need to demonstrate financial stability and private health insurance.
This visa does not allow you to work in Spain, but it’s perfect for long-term lifestyle moves and retirement.
The Digital Nomad Visa, launched in 2023, is now a top choice for remote workers and freelancers.
It lets you work legally in Spain while earning income from abroad and offers favourable tax treatment under the Beckham Law for up to five years.
If you’re planning to start a business in Spain or are being hired by a Spanish employer, you may be eligible for the Entrepreneur Visa, EU Blue Card, or standard wealth-based visas.
Our legal team works with clients to find the best fit and complete the application process smoothly. Visit PCC Legal today for your enquiries about Spanish Visas.
One of the most common questions we hear is, “Can I buy property in Spain if I’m not a resident?” The answer is yes.
Foreigners can purchase homes in Spain with full ownership rights. But the process is different from what you may be used to, and it pays to be well-prepared.
You’ll need to apply for a Spanish NIE number (tax ID for foreigners) and open a Spanish bank account.
Once you’ve found the right property, you’ll typically pay a small reservation deposit.
A legal review then begins, including property checks, debt searches, and contract preparation.
After signing a private purchase agreement, the transaction is finalised at the notary office, where title deeds are transferred.
At Private Client Consultancy Property, we handle this process for you from start to finish—providing legal support, financial planning, and relocation advice all under one roof.
Becoming a Spanish tax resident means you will be taxed on your global income if you spend more than 183 days a year in Spain. Without proper planning, this can lead to unnecessary tax exposure.
QROPS pension transfers are no longer viable for UK expats due to the 25% overseas transfer charge and changes following Brexit.
Instead, we help clients manage UK-based SIPPs (Self-Invested Personal Pensions) which offer flexibility and can be optimised for tax efficiency in Spain.
We also guide clients in using Spanish-compliant investment bonds that allow you to grow your wealth in a tax-deferred environment, withdraw income efficiently, and simplify legacy planning.
These structures are particularly valuable for retirees, investors, and those passing on wealth to children.
Spain also applies a wealth tax on global assets over certain thresholds and has different inheritance tax laws than the UK.
We provide holistic wealth management advice tailored for cross-border lifestyles, so your move doesn’t cost more than it should.
To obtain a residency visa, most applicants must prove they have private health insurance that offers 100% coverage with no co-payments.
We help you compare insurers and select plans that are affordable and fully compliant.
Once you are a legal resident, you may also access Spain’s public healthcare system, which is considered one of the best in Europe. Retired UK nationals receiving a state pension may qualify via the S1 form, while working residents are covered through social security contributions.
Our team also supports clients with home, life, car, and income protection insurance to ensure they are fully protected from day one.
One of the most important decisions when moving to Spain is choosing where to live. Spain offers a wide range of lifestyles depending on the region.
Coastal towns like Marbella, Estepona, and La Cala de Mijas offer relaxed living, English-speaking communities, and easy access to services.
Inland towns like Mijas Pueblo, Ronda, or Frigiliana appeal to those looking for authenticity, nature, and peace.
Families often choose areas with strong schools and community life, such as Benalmádena, Marbella East, and Sotogrande. Digital nomads and professionals are increasingly drawn to Malaga, Valencia, or Seville, where fast internet, culture, and coworking spaces come together.
We help clients match location with lifestyle, budget, healthcare needs, and future goals—so the move works in real life, not just on paper.
View our Spanish local guides to find the perfect place that meets your needs.
Adapting to Spanish life means embracing a different pace. Expect later mealtimes, relaxed afternoons, and a strong sense of community. While Spanish bureaucracy can be slower than what many are used to, the lifestyle rewards more than make up for it.
Learning Spanish isn’t mandatory, but it helps enormously. Many of our clients begin with basic classes or simply learn by immersion through shopping, socialising, and connecting with their neighbours.
We also support clients in joining local groups, attending cultural events, and finding places to meet people. From hiking clubs and golf groups to cooking classes and expat meetups, building a social life is easier than most expect.
In addition to the big decisions, there are a few details that are easy to overlook but critical to your move.
You’ll need to create or update your will in Spain, convert your UK driving licence, and arrange for currency transfers using specialist services (to avoid high bank charges).
If you’re bringing pets, they’ll need microchips, passports, and up-to-date vaccinations.
Setting up internet, electricity, and mobile service will also be part of your early to-do list.
We manage all of these steps as part of our aftercare service, staying with you well beyond the sale or visa approval.
It’s one of the things clients value most.
From our experience, we recommend starting the relocation process six to nine months in advance.
The first stage involves reviewing your options, securing financial advice, and beginning your visa application.
Midway, you’ll search for property, set up your finances, and begin packing.
The final stage includes legal completion, notary appointments, and preparing to integrate into Spanish life.
Download Our Moving to Spain Checklist
We’ve created a free printable checklist that includes every step—legal, financial, emotional, and practical—to help you stay on track.
Use it to prepare, plan, and stay confident throughout your relocation.
At Private Client Consultancy Property, we help people relocate to Spain with clarity, confidence, and support at every step.
From visa support and legal help to tax structuring, insurance, and aftercare—we do it all under one roof. If you’re planning to move to Spain in 2025, let’s make it happen together.
Going Beyond Finding A Home
We Find You A Lifestyle
Sign-up to our weekly newsletter and be notified about our latest additions.
CIF: B13981089
All content © Private Client Consultancy Property. All rights reserved. 2025