7 mistakes to avoid when moving to Spain in 2027

Planning to move to Spain? With its sunshine, varied landscapes and relaxed lifestyle, it is easy to see why Spain is one of the most popular choices for people moving abroad from the UK. Moving abroad still brings challenges, though, and the most common mistakes are easy to avoid with some planning. Here are seven mistakes people make when moving to Spain, and how to avoid them, plus the Spanish residency requirements you need to know for 2027.

For the full picture, from healthcare to schools and the cost of living, read our essential guide to moving to Spain.

1. Not researching the right visa and permits

Since Brexit, moving to Spain takes more than packing your bags. UK nationals can visit Spain without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180 day period, but to live there you need a Spanish national visa and residence card. The process can take time and Spanish administration can move slowly, so start early. You will also need an NIE (foreigner identity number) for financial transactions and a TIE residence card once you are living in Spain. See the residency requirements section below for the main routes in 2027.

2. Failing to visit the area first

Spain has 17 autonomous communities, each with its own culture, climate and, in some cases, its own co-official language. Before committing to an area, visit in different seasons: a resort town that feels lively in August can be very quiet in January. Renting first gives you a better sense of the lifestyle and community before you commit.

3. Not securing employment before arrival

Unless you are retiring, working remotely or self employed, securing a job before you move is essential. Unemployment in Spain is higher than in the UK, and finding work after arrival can be difficult. For a work visa, your employer usually has to apply for your work authorisation in Spain. If you are not fluent in Spanish, sectors such as tourism, international business, teaching English and tech tend to have more roles for English speakers.

4. Overlooking cultural differences

Spain's lifestyle is appealing, but some differences can come as a surprise. From greeting with two kisses to dinner at 9pm or later, daily life runs on a different rhythm to the UK. Many people take a longer lunch, and in smaller towns some shops close in the early afternoon. Understanding and embracing these habits will help you settle in.

5. Not learning basic Spanish

In popular areas many people speak English, but relying on it will limit your experience. Learning basic Spanish before you move will help with everyday tasks, appointments and paperwork, and it will help you become part of your local community. Language apps and online courses are a good starting point. Some regions, such as Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, Galicia and the Basque Country, also have their own co-official language, so it is worth finding out about the area you are moving to.

6. Rushing to buy property

Many people dream of buying a home in Spain, but it is wise to rent first. Buying is a big financial commitment, and from April 2025 buying property no longer gives you a route to residency, as Spain ended its Golden Visa scheme. Renting lets you experience life in your chosen area before deciding if it is right for you. If you do buy and later sell as a non-resident, capital gains tax applies, currently 19% for non-residents according to the Spanish Tax Agency (Agencia Tributaria).

7. Not connecting with other people who have moved

Moving to a new country can feel daunting when the culture is unfamiliar. Connecting with others who have moved to Spain can give you support and practical advice on paperwork, local services and settling in. There are many online communities, so try to make connections before you move, and join local clubs and classes once you arrive.

Spain residency requirements in 2027

Based on GOV.UK Living in Spain guidance and the Spanish Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, these are the main points for UK nationals moving to Spain in 2027. A new immigration regulation came into force on 20 May 2025, so check the latest requirements with the Spanish consulate before you apply.

• Visits: up to 90 days in any 180 day period without a visa. You register in the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) at the border, and ETIAS travel authorisation is expected to apply to UK visitors once it launches.
• Non-lucrative residence visa: for retirees and people living on savings or passive income who will not work in Spain. You need to show income of at least 400% of the IPREM (a Spanish benchmark figure updated each year), plus private health insurance.
• Digital nomad visa: for people working remotely for employers or clients outside Spain. You need to show income of at least 200% of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI), a qualification or relevant experience, and at least three months of work with your employer or clients.
• Work visa: usually needs a job offer and work authorisation obtained by your Spanish employer.
• Family reunion and study: separate routes with their own requirements.
• Golden Visa: closed to new applications from 3 April 2025.
• After you arrive: register on the padrón (local register) at your town hall, apply for your TIE residence card with your fingerprints, and keep proof of your health insurance.
• Existing residents: UK nationals living in Spain before 1 January 2021 keep their rights under the Withdrawal Agreement and should hold a TIE card.

Other things to plan for:

• Healthcare: UK state pensioners can usually register an S1 form for Spanish public healthcare. Otherwise you will need private health insurance until you pay into Spanish social security.
• Tax: you usually become tax resident in Spain if you spend more than 183 days there in a calendar year. Tell HMRC you are leaving the UK.

Driving: GOV.UK explains when you must exchange your UK licence for a Spanish one once you are resident.

• Pets: dogs, cats and ferrets need a microchip, rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate. Our pet shipping service can help.

Conclusion

Moving to Spain is an exciting step, and preparation is key. By avoiding these common mistakes and checking the residency rules early, you will settle in faster and start enjoying your new life in Spain. Give yourself time to adjust, embrace the cultural differences and stay organised with your paperwork. For more detail, read our essential guide to moving to Spain and our moving abroad checklist.

When you are ready to move, Pickfords removals to Spain handle packing, shipping and customs paperwork so your belongings arrive safely at your new Spanish home. If you are keeping some items in the UK, self storage from £18 is a simple option, with drive-up self storage for long term needs. Choose a secure facility to keep your belongings safe at all times.

Frequently asked questions

• Can I still move to Spain from the UK after Brexit?

Yes, but you need a visa to live there for more than 90 days in any 180 day period. The main routes are the non-lucrative visa, the digital nomad visa, a work visa, family reunion and study.

• Can I still get a Golden Visa by buying property in Spain?

No. Spain stopped accepting new Golden Visa applications based on investment from 3 April 2025. Buying a home no longer gives you residency on its own.

• How much income do I need for the Spanish non-lucrative visa?

You must show at least 400% of the IPREM for the main applicant, with an extra amount for each family member. The IPREM is updated each year, so check the current figure with the Spanish consulate.

• What is the difference between an NIE and a TIE?

The NIE is your foreigner identity number, used for tax, property and contracts. The TIE is the physical residence card that shows your NIE and proves you live legally in Spain.

• Do I need private health insurance to live in Spain?

For most visa routes, yes, at least at first. UK state pensioners can usually use an S1 form to register for Spanish public healthcare, and workers paying Spanish social security can use the public system.

• Should I rent or buy when I first move to Spain?

Renting first is usually wiser. It lets you test an area in all seasons before making a large financial commitment.

• How long does it take to ship furniture to Spain?

Road moves from the UK to mainland Spain usually take days to a few weeks, depending on whether you choose a dedicated load or shared groupage. Your mover will confirm the timeline when you book.

Ready to start your move? Request a free quote for your move to Spain or get in touch with our expert team for personalised advice.