A big round of applause if you’re considering retiring to Spain. Before Brexit, it was almost the norm to retire to Spain from the UK. Well, it was definitely normal for people to have a property in Spain that they’d spend most of the year at, but that all changed for us in 2019.

Still, that pipedream shouldn’t die – with a residency consultation, a bit of money in the back, and the desire to live the Spanish life, moving to Spain from UK is still an excellent option for people who want to live out their golden years in the glorious Spanish sun.

Below, find your ultimate guide to retiring in Spain in 2025 and how to emigrate to Spain successfully.

Why you should retire in Spain

Why shouldn’t you?

You’ve worked your whole life, now it’s time to actually live it. For many Brits moving to Spain, retirement is the dream. The sun shines almost daily (don’t speak to the Spanish about the constant rain in March this year), the food is fresh, the wine is cheaper than water, and life slows down just enough for you to breathe. The wine is literally cheaper than water, look in Mercadona. It might take a sip or two to get used to when it’s €1.50 a bottle, but wine is wine.

You don’t retire to Spain for chaos. You do it for calm, connection, and comfort.

And let’s not ignore the numbers. According to Eurostat, Spain consistently ranks as one of the top retirement destinations for UK nationals. The cost of living is lower, the healthcare system is excellent, and even in 2025, property prices are still competitive—especially compared to the UK market.

For anyone thinking, how can I move to Spain or can you move to Spain from the UK, the answer is a big yes. Retiring to Spain from the UK in 2025 is not just possible—it’s actively encouraged in many regions that are crying out for long-term residents.

The best visas for retiring in Spain

If you want to retire to Spain from the UK, your best route is the Non-Lucrative Visa. It’s the golden ticket for people who don’t plan to work in Spain but want to live there long-term. Think pensioners, early retirees, or just anyone with passive income.

To get it, you’ll need:

• Proof of financial means (bank statements, pension letters)
• Private health insurance
• A clean criminal record
• A medical certificate
• Proof of accommodation in Spain

And, as always, lots of paperwork. But don’t let that put you off. A good residency consultation with a trusted immigration service makes all the difference.

So, how do I move to Spain from the UK? Start with the visa.

Essential considerations for moving from UK to Spain

There’s more to moving to Spain from the UK than visas. Before you pack your bags, let’s cover the less exciting but very necessary stuff.

Healthcare

You need it. Spain’s healthcare is amazing, but you must be covered to access it. If you’re on a non-lucrative visa, private insurance is required. Once you’ve lived there for a while and got residency, you might be able to access public healthcare.

Taxes

Boring, but important. Move to Spain for more than 183 days a year, and you’re a tax resident. That means Spanish taxes on your global income. Speak to an accountant. Please. Just do it.

Language

You don’t need to be fluent, but learning basic Spanish goes a long way. Especially if you’re retiring to Spain from the UK and planning to settle in a smaller town.

Cost of living

Cheaper than the UK? Usually, yes. Especially if you avoid the tourist hotspots. Fresh produce, wine, and dining out are affordable. Rent and property prices vary wildly depending on location.

Residency and bureaucracy

Prepare for admin. Spain loves paperwork. Appointments at the town hall (ayuntamiento), NIE applications, TIE cards—it’s a process.

If you’re asking how can I move to Spain from the UK and not lose my mind? Plan early. Get help.

The best areas to live to retire in Spain from UK

You’ve got your visa, sorted your paperwork, and packed your swimsuit. Now, where do you live?

Here are the best areas for retiring to Spain from the UK.

• Valencia
• Granada
• Alicante Province
• Murcia
• Costa del Azahar

You’ve spent enough of your life braving UK winters. Now it’s time to do something for you. Move to Spain from the UK in 2025 and start the next chapter somewhere with sun, culture, and a community that actually slows down to enjoy life.

Moving from the UK to Spain is the best decision you’ll ever make. Ask anyone who’s done it—it’s worth it. Retire the right way. With a glass of Rioja in hand, tapas on your plate, and the Spanish sun warming your back.