If you are moving to Spain, the first thing to know is whether you are an EU citizen or not. A German, Finnish or Dutch national only has to register in the Central Register of Foreign Nationals if staying more than three months. A UK national since Brexit, or an American, needs a residence visa, because without one they can only spend 90 days in any 180. In both cases you will need a NIE, registration on the town hall roll (padrón) and somewhere to live.
This guide summarises the steps under the rules in force in November 2026, from the point of view of someone looking for a home on the Costa del Sol. It is no substitute for advice from an immigration lawyer or a tax adviser.
What does an EU citizen need to live in Spain?
Citizens of the EU, the European Economic Area and Switzerland can live in Spain without a visa. If the stay exceeds three months, they must apply in person for the EU citizen registration certificate, using form EX-18, within three months of arrival. That certificate includes the NIE. To obtain it you need to show work in Spain or, if you are not working, sufficient means and health insurance, public or private.
What do UK nationals need to move to Spain after Brexit?
Since 2021 UK nationals have been third-country nationals. They can buy a home without restrictions, but to live in it for more than 90 days in any 180 they need a visa, applied for at the Spanish consulate in their country of residence before travelling. The most common routes are:
- Non-lucrative residence: for people living on investment income, a pension or savings who will not work in Spain. It requires income of 400% of the IPREM index, around €28,800 a year for the applicant in 2026, plus 100% of the IPREM for each family member, and private health insurance with no co-payments.
- Remote work visa, known as the digital nomad visa: for people working remotely for companies or clients outside Spain.
- Employment or self-employment, study or family reunification, each with its own requirements.
Buying a home no longer gives a right to residence: the visa for property investors, the so-called golden visa, was abolished with effect from 3 April 2025.
Formalities on arrival: NIE, padrón, healthcare and bank
| Step | Where | What it is for |
|---|---|---|
| NIE or EU registration certificate | Immigration office or National Police, or consulate | Buying, signing contracts, opening an account, paying tax |
| Town hall registration (padrón) | Your local town hall | Healthcare, schools, local benefits and discounts |
| Health card | Health centre, after Social Security | Care in the Andalusian public health system |
| Spanish bank account | Any bank | Direct debits for IBI, community fees and utilities |
UK and EU pensioners entitled to healthcare in their home country can register form S1 with Spanish Social Security to use the public health system. Those working in Spain pay contributions and gain access directly.
When do you start paying tax in Spain?
You become tax resident if you spend more than 183 days of the year in Spain or if the centre of your economic interests is here. From that year you declare your worldwide income in Spain under IRPF income tax, including pensions and rental income from abroad, with double taxation treaties preventing you from paying twice. Before moving, review with an adviser how your income will be taxed, because this affects family finances more than the move itself.
Should you buy or rent when moving to the Costa del Sol?
Many of our clients rent for six months to a year before buying, to get to know the area in winter and in summer. Long-term rentals on the coast are expensive and scarce, so it pays to start looking early. If you already know the area, buying avoids that search and, for UK nationals, is compatible with applying for a visa, though it does not replace it.
As a reference, according to our market report, the median price of homes for sale ranges from around €359,000 in Manilva to €549,000 in Mijas and Fuengirola and €950,000 in Marbella. For your budget, add around 8% for taxes and purchase costs on a resale home.
Conclusion
Moving to Spain is simple for an EU citizen and needs planning for a UK or other non-EU national: the visa is applied for before travelling and tax residence changes your taxes from the first year. At EVS Property we help people relocating to the Costa del Sol choose an area, find a home to rent or buy and coordinate the NIE with the notary and bank.
Frequently asked questions
Can UK citizens still move to Spain?
Yes, but with a residence visa, like any non-EU national. Without one they can stay 90 days in any 180, even if they own a home.
How much money do you need to move to Spain without working?
For non-lucrative residence, income or savings equal to 400% of the IPREM, around €28,800 a year for one person in 2026, plus €7,200 for each dependant. An EU citizen must show sufficient means, without such a rigid figure.
Does buying a house in Spain give you residency?
Not since 3 April 2025, when the golden visa was abolished. The home can serve as your address for other residence routes, but it is not a route in itself.
Do I need a NIE before moving?
You will need it to rent or buy under contract, open an account and set up utilities, so it is worth applying as early as possible, even from the consulate in your home country.
