Moving from London to Spain is a dream for millions of UK residents — and for a significant number, that dream becomes reality every year. Spain offers a warm climate, relaxed pace of life, outstanding food and wine, and property prices that make London feel like a different planet. Whether you are heading to Barcelona’s cosmopolitan streets, the business district of Madrid, the sunshine of the Costa del Sol or the green hills of the Basque Country, this guide covers everything you need to plan your move.
Why Londoners Move to Spain
Spain consistently ranks as the number one destination for UK nationals moving abroad, for several compelling reasons:
- Climate — over 300 days of sunshine per year in many regions; a stark contrast to London weather
- Cost of living — significantly lower than London, particularly for housing, food and dining out
- Quality of life — slower pace, outdoor living, excellent healthcare
- Property — from affordable rural fincas to coastal apartments and city centre flats, Spanish property offers exceptional value compared to the UK
- Large UK expat communities — particularly on the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and in Barcelona, making the transition easier
Post-Brexit: Visa and Residency for UK Nationals in Spain
Spain is the clearest example of how Brexit changed the rules for UK nationals moving to Europe. Before 2021, you could simply move and register. Now:
Short stays (under 90 days): No visa required — UK nationals can visit Spain and the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Longer stays (living and working): You need a Spanish long-stay visa before moving. The main options are:
- Non-lucrative visa — for those with sufficient income/savings who do not intend to work in Spain. Requires proof of regular income (approximately €2,400/month per person) and private health insurance.
- Work visa — requires a Spanish employer to sponsor your application
- Digital nomad visa — introduced in 2023 for remote workers with non-Spanish clients; popular with London professionals who can work remotely
- Golden Visa — for property investors (minimum €500,000 investment)
Apply through the Spanish consulate in London. Processing times are typically 4–8 weeks.
After arrival:
- Register at your local ayuntamiento (town hall) to obtain your empadronamiento (municipal registration) — needed for almost all official processes
- Apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) — the residence card for non-EU nationals
- Obtain your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros) — required for any financial or legal transaction in Spain
Planning Your Move from London to Spain: Timeline
14 weeks before
- Apply for your Spanish visa at the consulate in London — process can take 6–8 weeks
- Research removal companies; request fixed-price quotes
- Research your destination region and begin property or rental search
8 weeks before
- Confirm removal booking once visa is approved or expected imminently
- Arrange Spanish private health insurance — required for the non-lucrative visa and most other visa types
- Gather UK proof of residency documents
4 weeks before
- Begin packing non-essential items
- Notify HMRC, your GP, bank and utility providers
- Open a Spanish bank account if possible (Santander, BBVA and CaixaBank have English-language services)
Moving week
- Label all boxes clearly
- Keep passports, visa documents and NIE paperwork with you
Cost of Moving from London to Spain
Spain is a longer route than northern Europe, which is reflected in removal costs — but remains very competitive.
| Service type | Estimated cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Part-load (shared) | £500 – £1,100 | Studios, 1-bed flats, personal effects |
| Full-load (dedicated van) | £1,400 – £3,000 | 2-bed+ homes, full households |
| Professional packing add-on | £250 – £700 | Full household packing by our team |
Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Alicante, Valencia and all major Spanish cities and regions are covered. Get a free fixed-price quote for your removals to Spain.
London to Spain: Transit Times
| Destination | Estimated transit time |
|---|---|
| Barcelona | 3–4 working days |
| Madrid | 4–5 working days |
| Valencia | 4–5 working days |
| Malaga / Costa del Sol | 4–5 working days |
| Alicante / Costa Blanca | 4–5 working days |
Which Region of Spain Is Right for You?
Barcelona & Catalonia — Europe’s most cosmopolitan Spanish city. Strong tech and startup scene, international community, outstanding food and culture. Higher cost of living than the rest of Spain but significantly cheaper than London.
Madrid — Spain’s business and political capital. Finance, law and corporate headquarters. Less beach, more city energy. Excellent infrastructure and nightlife.
Costa del Sol (Malaga area) — The classic UK expat destination. Warm year-round, large English-speaking community, good golf courses and healthcare infrastructure. Popular for retirees and semi-retired families.
Costa Blanca (Alicante area) — More affordable than the Costa del Sol with excellent climate. Alicante city has a growing international community beyond the traditional retirement demographic.
Basque Country (Bilbao, San Sebastián) — Cooler and greener than southern Spain. World-class gastronomy, strong local identity, high quality of life. Less popular with UK expats but excellent for those who prefer a more authentic Spanish lifestyle.
Tips for a Smooth London to Spain Removal
Sort your visa before booking your removal date. Unlike northern European moves, Spain requires careful visa timing. Do not commit to a removal date until your visa is confirmed.
Get your NIE number as early as possible. You cannot open a bank account, sign a rental contract or buy property without a NIE. Apply through the Spanish consulate in London before you move, or at the local Policía Nacional upon arrival.
Consider healthcare carefully. Spain’s state healthcare (SCS) is available to registered residents but access for UK nationals now requires specific registration. Private health insurance is both required for most visas and highly recommended as a practical measure.
For a comprehensive overview of the full relocation process, read our moving from UK to Spain guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Moving from London to Spain
Do I need a visa to move from London to Spain after Brexit?
Yes, for stays longer than 90 days. The most popular options are the non-lucrative visa (for those with income or savings), the digital nomad visa (for remote workers) and the work visa. Apply through the Spanish consulate in London at least 8 weeks before your planned move date.
What is a NIE number and do I need one?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros) is a Spanish tax identification number for foreigners. You need it for virtually every financial or legal transaction in Spain: opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, buying a car, paying taxes. Apply at the Spanish consulate in London or at the local Policía Nacional after arrival.
How much does it cost to move from London to Spain?
Part-load services for a one-bedroom flat start from around £500. Full household removals typically range from £1,400 to £3,000 depending on volume and destination. Easy Move provides fixed prices with customs included.
Can I bring my pet when moving from London to Spain?
Yes, but there are specific requirements. Dogs and cats need a valid rabies vaccination, an EU-format health certificate issued by an official UK vet, and microchipping. Check current requirements with your vet well in advance of your travel date.
Is it cheaper to live in Spain than London?
Significantly so in most categories. Housing costs in most Spanish cities and regions are a fraction of London prices. Food, dining out and everyday living costs are also substantially lower, making it possible to maintain a high quality of life on a lower income than would be needed in London.
Ready to move? Our team handles the full process: packing, customs and delivery.