Ready to Start Your Spanish Adventure?

Moving to Spain from the UK is a dream shared by thousands of British expats each year. Whether you're seeking sunshine, a slower pace of life, or new business opportunities, there's no shortage of reasons to make the leap.

This comprehensive moving to Spain checklist covers every stage — from visa applications and banking to healthcare, housing, and integration — with expert help available through trusted English-speaking businesses on British Business Pages in Spain.

Step 1: Plan Your Move Early

Relocating to Spain requires careful preparation, ideally starting 6–12 months before your move.

Your pre-move checklist:

Research the best places to live in Spain for British expats (e.g., Costa del Sol, Alicante, Valencia).

Visit your preferred areas if possible — check property, schools, and local facilities.

Create a moving budget including travel, shipping, rent, utilities, and legal costs.

Decide whether you'll rent or buy property in Spain.

? Use our directory to find English-speaking estate agents, relocation experts, and legal advisors who understand British clients. Visit:  www.propertysalesmarmenor.com    

Step 2: Sort Out Residency and Visas

After Brexit, UK citizens must apply for the appropriate Spanish visa or residence permit.

Common visa types for British nationals:

Non-lucrative visa – for retirees or those with passive income.

Golden visa – for property investors (€500,000+ investment).

Digital nomad visa – for remote workers and freelancers.

Work visa – if you have an employment contract in Spain.

Apply via your nearest Spanish Consulate in the UK before travelling. Once in Spain, obtain your NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) and TIE residency card.

? Need legal help? Find immigration lawyers and gestorías on our site that specialise in UK-to-Spain moves.

Visit:  Click here

Step 3: Open a Spanish Bank Account

Having a Spanish bank account simplifies paying rent, taxes, and bills.

You'll need:

Passport & NIE

Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)

Proof of income or employment

Choose a bank that offers English-language support and reasonable international transfer fees.

Step 4: Register for Healthcare

Access to healthcare in Spain depends on your residency type:

Public healthcare: available if you work or contribute to social security.

Private healthcare: required for most visa applications.

Private health insurance is often the simplest solution for newcomers.

? Browse our Health & Wellbeing listings for private insurers and English-speaking doctors in your region.

The best expat health insurance in Spain - Click Here

Step 5: Driving in Spain

You can drive in Spain with your UK licence for six months, but long-term residents must exchange it for a Spanish licence.
Ensure your vehicle has valid insurance and passes the ITV (MOT equivalent).

? Many gestorías listed on our directory handle vehicle registration and licence exchanges for expats.

Vehicle re registration - Click Here

Step 6: Finding a Home in Spain

Whether you're buying or renting, use licensed professionals:

Estate agents familiar with expats' needs

Lawyers (abogados) to verify property titles

Surveyors for building inspections

? Explore our Property & Legal categories for trustworthy English-speaking specialists. Click Here

Step 7: Moving Your Belongings

For stress-free relocation:

Hire international movers with UK–Spain experience.

Confirm customs paperwork and insurance coverage.

Keep an itemised list of your belongings.

? See our “Removals & Storage” listings for top-rated relocation companies.

Step 8: Set Up Essentials After Arrival

Once you've arrived:

Register your address with the local town hall (padrón certificate).

Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet, gas).

Update UK institutions (banks, HMRC, pensions) with your Spanish address.

Join local expat networks for advice and social connections.

Step 9: Settle Into Your New Life

Embrace the Spanish lifestyle!

Learn basic Spanish to make daily life easier.

Explore your area's local fiestas and markets.

Support local and British-run businesses — they make settling in easier.

? Find everything from tradespeople to tutors on BritishBusinessPagesInSpain.es.

Conclusion

Moving to Spain from the UK may seem daunting, but with the right plan — and reliable, English-speaking support — it's a journey well worth taking.

Use this checklist for moving to Spain as your roadmap, and explore our business directory to connect with trusted professionals who can help at every stage.

? Visit BritishBusinessPagesInSpain.es — your go-to guide for living, working, and thriving in Spain.